What the Bartender says
Nick & Nora
In mixology, every glass has a purpose, whether designed for big, mixer-filled cocktails, short, spirit-dominated cocktails, fizzy cocktails, or anything else. In this blog, we focus on the Nick & Nora glass - a vessel that embodies sophistication and refinement, with an intriguing backstory and a design that has made it a favorite among mixologists today.
History
The History of the Nick & Nora Glass
In the 1980s, New York-based bartender Dale DeGroff was tasked with heading up the bar at the newly reopened Rainbow Room events venue. Big, glitzy, sweet cocktails were all the rage then, but DeGroff wanted to serve refined cocktails from elegant glasses. During his search, he asked a salesperson at an old glass and silvers house for a cocktail glass like the one he'd seen in the 'Thin Man' movie. DeGroff's request led to him finding a glass in a 1930s catalog called the "Little Martini." DeGroff chose to use this glass for his bar at the Rainbow Room, nicknaming it the Nick & Nora glass in recognition of the film that inspired his selection. This nickname stuck so well that it eventually became the glass's official name, which it has remained to this day.
Drink Specific Cocktail Glasses
Why have drink-specific cocktail glasses?
- Aroma and flavor enhancement. Different cocktails require different types of glassware to showcase their flavors and aromas effectively. Your highball glass may be perfect for refreshing long drinks, but a well-stirred Martini's floral notes would be muted and wasted in such a glass.
- Presentation. Nick & Nora glasses are perfectly sized to accommodate the cocktails we've noted above and allow subtle garnishes like olives to stand out rather than being overwhelmed by an overbearing glass. This, in turn, makes your cocktail more enticing and appealing to the senses, resulting in a better experience.
- Entertaining ease. Hosting a cocktail party becomes a breeze when you have a variety of glassware on hand. Guests can choose their preferred vessel based on their drink of choice, adding an element of personalization to the experience. Plus, having a mix of cocktail glasses on such occasions is just more fun!
- Authenticity. While many people may not know in-depth details about cocktails and glassware, many cocktails have, over time, become synonymous with specific glasses. People may not know the history of a cocktail glass or how you make an Espresso Martini, but they'll recognize that it looks at home in a Martini, Coupe, or Nick and Nora glass.
With its graceful design and functionality, the Nick & Nora glass has grown in prominence in recent decades, becoming the glass of choice for many bartenders for spirit-forward cocktails, and it's easy to see why. The next time you host a cocktail party or indulge in a nightcap at home (perhaps while watching The Thin Man), bringing out your _641700005_ will help you indulge with class.
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