Need a new way to wow? Look no further than these chic beverage containers.
BY J. MARIE CARLAN
BARISTA MAGAZINE ONLINE
Featured photo by Teresa Jang
Spring is the perfect time to turn over a new leaf and try out new cold drinks. Whether you’re upgrading your cold-brew recipe, concocting fresh signature drinks, or taking it to go, you’ll need to pour those tasty drinks into some kind of cup.
Not all vessels are created equal, however. Here we’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up six cold cup options for a superior experience.
The Classic Pint Glass
Sturdy, affordable, and looking good on the counter—your trusty pint glass is here for you. It works for just about every cold drink on the menu, especially nitro cold brew! “The beautiful cascading bubbles (are) sure to get attention immediately,“ notes Sabitha Tata, chief operating officer at NitroBrew. “When the customer takes a sip, the tiny nitrogen bubbles roll on the palate and give a smooth and velvety texture. The type of glass used also makes a huge difference. A glass with a flair (a narrow bottom that progressively widens toward the top) puts on the best nitro show.“
The Trendy Can Glass
These have been popping up in café service and merchandise in recent years. Reminiscent of a soda can, they give an immediate impression of refreshment and fun, and work well for coffee sodas and other bubbly drinks. Some even come with a detachable lid and straw for on-the-go sipping, like the above cup from Klatch Coffee Roasters, making them practical in almost any situation.
The Versatile Tom Collins
This tall, slender glass is perfect for a small iced coffee. The cylindrical shape also lends itself to a nice nitro bubble cascade; the bubbles won’t get caught on the side, so they’ll push up to the top for a head of foam. The Collins works for signature iced drinks and coffee cocktails as well. Even water looks good in this multipurpose powerhouse.
The Double-Duty Double-Walled Glass
One way to extend the life of your cold brew is with a double-walled glass. Fellow’s Stagg Tasting Glasses are a great example. Their double-walled, hand-blown borosilicate glass can handle hot or cold beverages with ease while maintaining drink temperature longer (and staying comfy in your hand). A slightly flared lip at the top allows flavor to wash over your tongue as you sip. They come in a set of two, perfect for sharing at home.
The Thoughtful To-Go Tumbler
When you’re taking your cold brew out the door, consider a well-designed and tough-built tumbler. Fellow’s Carter Cold Tumbler has a double-wall vacuum seal for 18+ hours of chill, and a ceramic coating inside for preserving taste. A screw-on lid and a straw with a stopper make it spill-resistant, and it should fit nicely in your car cup holder. The Carter Cold Tumbler also comes in a range of cute colors!
The Distinguished Double Rocks Glass
Traditionally intended for a whiskey double, these glasses are sturdy, easy to hold, and work well with garnish. They’re also the perfect size for the hot-weather-menu go-to: espresso tonic. Double rocks glasses come in a variety of shapes, too, so you’re sure to find a perfect match for the aesthetic at your home or in your café.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
J. Marie Carlan (she/they) is the online editor for Barista Magazine. She’s been a barista for 15 years and writing since she was old enough to hold a pencil. When she’s not behind the espresso bar or toiling over content, you can find her perusing record stores, collecting bric-a-brac, writing poetry, and trying to keep the plants alive in her Denver apartment. She occasionally updates her blog.
