Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve, your one-stop shop for all things bartending.
I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades. Over the past few years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavour combinations, and learned a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.
In the blog below, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also offer tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.
So, grab your shaker, dust off your favourite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending.
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.
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Elegant, timeless and surprisingly versatile, the coupe has become the preferred choice for many bartenders serving classic cocktails.
While many people automatically think of the iconic V shaped martini glass when they picture cocktails, professional bartenders often reach for a coupe instead.
In this guide, we’ll explore what a coupe glass is, why bartenders love it and which cocktails are best served in one.
What Is A Coupe Glass?
A coupe glass is a stemmed cocktail glass with a broad, shallow bowl.
It typically holds between:
- 150ml
- 250ml
depending on the design.
Unlike a martini glass, which features sharp angles, a coupe has smooth curved sides and a rounded bowl.
The elegant design makes it one of the most visually appealing pieces of glassware behind any bar.
The History Of The Coupe Glass
The coupe has a fascinating history.
Originally introduced in France during the 1700s, it was initially used for serving champagne.
For many years, the coupe was the standard glass for sparkling wine before the flute became popular.
As cocktail culture evolved, bartenders discovered that the coupe worked exceptionally well for serving cocktails without ice.
Today, the coupe has become one of the most common glasses used in modern cocktail bars.
Why Bartenders Prefer Coupe Glasses
Over the past decade, many bars have moved away from traditional martini glasses and embraced coupes instead.
There are several reasons why.
Less Spillage
Anyone who has carried a full martini glass knows how easy it is to spill.
The coupe’s rounded design makes it far easier to transport.
Better Balance
The lower centre of gravity provides greater stability.
Improved Guest Experience
Guests can comfortably hold and drink from a coupe without worrying about spilling their cocktail.
Modern Presentation
Many bartenders simply prefer the look of a coupe glass.
It offers a clean, sophisticated presentation.
Coupe Glass vs Martini Glass
These two glasses are often confused.
Coupe Glass
- Rounded bowl
- More stable
- Easier to carry
- Less spilling
Martini Glass
- V shaped bowl
- More dramatic appearance
- Easier to spill
- Traditional Martini presentation
In many modern cocktail bars, Martinis are now served in coupe glasses.
What Cocktails Are Served In A Coupe Glass?
Coupe glasses are designed for cocktails served:
- Without ice
- Chilled
- Strained
They are particularly popular for shaken and stirred cocktails served “up.”
Daiquiri
Ingredients
- White rum
- Lime juice
- Sugar syrup
The classic Daiquiri is one of the most common cocktails served in a coupe.
Internal Link: Rum 101
Whiskey Sour
Ingredients
- Whiskey
- Lemon juice
- Sugar syrup
Especially when topped with an egg white foam.
Internal Link: The Sour Family
Sidecar
Ingredients
- Cognac
- Triple Sec
- Lemon juice
A timeless classic that looks fantastic in a coupe.
Manhattan
Ingredients
- Whiskey
- Sweet vermouth
- Bitters
Many modern bars prefer serving Manhattans in coupes.
Internal Link: Whisky 101
Aviation
Ingredients
- Gin
- Maraschino liqueur
- Lemon juice
A beautiful classic cocktail that suits coupe service perfectly.
Internal Link: Gin 101
Espresso Martini
Although traditionally associated with martini glasses, many venues now serve Espresso Martinis in coupe glasses.
The shape helps showcase the crema while reducing spills.
Why Coupe Glasses Are Perfect For Sours
The Sour family often uses coupe glasses because they:
- Highlight foam
- Showcase garnish presentation
- Keep cocktails chilled
- Create a premium appearance
Popular examples include:
- Whiskey Sour
- Amaretto Sour
- Pisco Sour
Internal Link: The Sour Family
Why Stemmed Glassware Matters
One of the biggest advantages of a coupe is the stem.
Holding the stem rather than the bowl helps prevent your hand from warming the drink.
This keeps cocktails colder for longer.
This is particularly important for cocktails served without ice.
Common Coupe Glass Sizes
Small Coupe
150ml to 180ml
Ideal for:
- Classic cocktails
- Spirit forward drinks
Standard Coupe
180ml to 220ml
Most commonly used in bars.
Large Coupe
220ml to 250ml
Popular for:
- Modern cocktails
- Larger serves
Choosing Coupe Glasses For Your Home Bar
If you’re building a home bar, coupe glasses should be high on your shopping list.
Look for:
- Durable construction
- Thin rim
- Comfortable stem
- Dishwasher safe design
A quality coupe glass can be used for dozens of different cocktails.
Common Beginner Mistakes
Overfilling The Glass
Leave room at the top of the glass.
A coupe should never be filled to the very edge.
Serving Ice In A Coupe
Coupe glasses are generally designed for drinks served without ice.
Using Warm Glassware
Always chill your coupe glasses before serving cocktails.
Incorrect Garnish Placement
Garnishes should enhance the drink rather than overwhelm it.
Essential Equipment For Coupe Cocktails
Before we start mixing, make sure you have your cocktail kit ready to go. A proper shaker, jigger and strainer will make the process smoother and help you create a better balanced drink.
If you are still building your home bar, we recommend the Barillio cocktail kit here.
Now let’s shake up something great.
Essential tools include:
- Boston shaker
- Jigger
- Hawthorne strainer
- Fine mesh strainer
- Coupe glasses
Internal Links:
- Boston Shaker Guide For Beginners
- Complete Guide To Bartender Jiggers
- Complete Guide To Hawthorne Strainers
- Barillio Cocktail Kit Review
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a coupe glass used for?
A coupe glass is used for cocktails served chilled without ice.
What’s the difference between a coupe and martini glass?
A coupe has a rounded bowl, while a martini glass has a V shaped bowl.
Why do bartenders prefer coupe glasses?
They are easier to carry, reduce spills and provide a more stable drinking experience.
Can champagne be served in a coupe glass?
Historically yes, although flutes are now more commonly used.
What cocktails are commonly served in a coupe?
Daiquiris, Whiskey Sours, Manhattans, Sidecars and Aviation cocktails are all popular examples.
Final Thoughts
The coupe glass has become one of the most important pieces of glassware in modern bartending.
Its elegant appearance, practical design and versatility make it a favourite among professional bartenders and home cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re serving a classic Daiquiri or a perfectly balanced Whiskey Sour, the coupe glass delivers a presentation that feels timeless and sophisticated.
Thanks for Joining Us Behind the Bar
The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve. I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below. What are you shaking up these days? What topics would you like to see covered in future posts? Let’s connect and continue the conversation.
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: Liquor & Gaming NSW.
If you’re looking to complete your RSA in any state or territory across Australia, you can find the full details here.