What Is a Cocktail Collins Glass？
If your venue serves stylish, long cocktails—like mojitos or Tom Collins—you’ll need the right glass to make them pop. Let’s talk about the unsung hero: the Collins glass.
A Collins glass is a tall, narrow glass typically used for long mixed drinks like the Tom Collins. It holds 12–16 oz, enhances drink presentation, and is perfect for high-end bars and hotels.
This guide will help you decide if Collins glasses are right for your business, how to choose them, and why they’re worth the investment.
What Is a Collins Glass? (Definition + Commercial Use Cases)
Some glasses just look great on a tray, and this one stands tall—literally. When I first set up my event venue bar service, Collins glasses were a game changer.
A Collins glass is a tall cylindrical glass used to serve mixed drinks, especially carbonated cocktails. It’s a common tool in commercial hospitality spaces.
Used by Professionals, Loved by Guests
The Collins glass, often confused with the highball, is built for long drinks. Its shape isn’t just elegant—it’s functional. It holds more liquid and ice, which helps keep drinks cold and balanced longer. For commercial use, this means fewer refills and more satisfied guests.
In my venues, we rely on them for signature drinks like Gin Fizz or sparkling Palomas. They help us serve consistent drinks with impressive presentation. Whether it’s a rooftop bar or a hotel lounge, this glass delivers that “polished” look that guests remember.
In the B2B space, these glasses are loved because they:
Keep presentation sharp during large events.
Standardize bar service across locations.
Reduce waste by supporting better portion control.
They’re part of every hotel, restaurant, and catering setup we run. They help us build a look—and a brand—that feels classy but approachable.
📏 Dimensions & Design: Why It’s Built for Presentation
I remember switching from highball glasses to Collins glasses and instantly seeing a difference in how guests reacted. People notice glassware—especially when it’s part of the drink’s appeal.
Collins glasses are tall and slim, typically holding between 12 and 16 ounces. Their design helps retain bubbles and shows off drink layers.
Practical by Design
Let’s break down why this matters in hospitality:
| Feature | Collins Glass | Why It Works for Business |
|---|---|---|
| Height & Shape | 6–7 inches tall, slim and cylindrical | Looks elegant on trays and tables |
| Volume | 12–16 oz | Enough for long drinks + ice, fewer refills |
| Material Options | Tempered glass, crystal, soda lime | Durable for daily commercial use |
| Presentation | Clear walls, tall silhouette | Perfect for layered cocktails and garnishes |
| Stacking Capability | Moderate | Store easily, space-saving in tight bars |
This design lets bartenders work fast and consistently, especially during peak service. It fits perfectly in ice wells, looks balanced in hand, and helps maintain the visual quality of sparkling or colorful drinks.
When customers snap photos of their cocktails, the glass needs to hold up visually. That’s what the Collins does—it’s Instagram-friendly and built for high turnover environments.
In my business, guests often ask, “What glass is this?” That’s how I know we chose the right one.
🥂 Collins Glass vs. Highball Glass: Key Differences
The first time I mixed up a highball and a Collins order at an event, my bartender laughed—then explained the difference. Since then, I’ve always remembered it, and so should you.
The Collins glass is taller and slimmer than the highball. It holds slightly more liquid and is better for carbonated long drinks.
Know the Difference
Let’s compare them:
| Feature | Collins Glass | Highball Glass |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Tall, slim cylinder | Shorter, slightly wider |
| Height | 6–7 inches | 5–6 inches |
| Volume | 12–16 oz | 8–12 oz |
| Use | Long, fizzy cocktails | Mixed drinks, less carbonation |
| Look | Elegant, vertical | Compact, casual |
Choosing the right glass isn’t just about looks—it’s about function. If you’re serving bubbly or layered cocktails, go for the Collins. If you’re mixing whiskey soda or simple spirit + mixer combos, highballs work fine.
In high-end environments, the Collins glass offers a more refined look that fits the guest experience. That’s why we use both, but we lead with Collins for anything on the signature cocktail list.
Highball Glass
Cocktail Collins Glass
🍹 Best Cocktails to Serve in a Collins Glass
At one of our weddings, the groom asked for a signature “His” cocktail in a Collins glass—it became the hit of the night. The right glass really does elevate the drink.
The Collins glass is perfect for cocktails like the Tom Collins, Mojito, Gin Fizz, and Paloma. It supports bubbly mixers and tall presentations.
Top Choices for Your Menu
Here’s a quick list of drinks that shine in a Collins glass:
| Cocktail | Why It Works for Collins Glass |
|---|---|
| Tom Collins | Carbonation + lemon, needs tall space |
| Mojito | Muddled mint + soda, keeps layers neat |
| Gin Fizz | Fizzy and frothy, needs vertical support |
| Paloma | Grapefruit soda + tequila, looks stunning |
| Pimm’s Cup | Loaded with fruit, benefits from height |
Collins glasses create vertical visual appeal—clear separation of layers, colorful garnishes, and sparkling mixers. For event planners and hospitality buyers, these are your go-to for a “wow” factor with minimal effort.
Whenever we test new drink recipes, we always try them in both glass types. If it’s long, fizzy, and looks pretty, it goes into a Collins.
🛠️ Why Businesses Love the Collins Glass
When I onboard new bartenders, one of the first tools I hand them is a Collins glass. It’s versatile, intuitive, and shows off the drink—no explanation needed.
Collins glasses are versatile, durable, and consistent. They’re easy to store, clean, and use for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Built for Business
Here’s why they make sense for professionals:
Versatility: Use them for mocktails, cocktails, sodas, or infused waters.
Standardization: Makes portion control easier, helps with consistent service.
Storage & Cleaning: Stackable design options, dishwasher safe for fast turnover.
Durability: Tempered options handle bar use, transport, and washing cycles.
We always keep extra on hand because once they’re in rotation, we never run short. They’re reliable workhorses in high-pressure environments.
🧑🍳 Glassware Guide for Hospitality Professionals
If you’re setting up a bar from scratch or revamping a drink menu, glassware choice is crucial. I learned this the hard way after realizing guests notice mismatched or scratched glasses fast.
Your glassware says a lot about your venue. Collins glasses are a core part of a complete, professional bar setup.
Must-Have Glassware Types
| Glass Type | Use |
|---|---|
| Collins | Long, carbonated drinks |
| Highball | Mixed drinks, less volume |
| Rocks | Whiskey, Old Fashioned, neat pours |
| coupe | Classic cocktails, shaken or stirred |
| Martini | Clean presentation for chilled spirits |
| Wine/Champagne | Dining service and sparkling wines |
We pair Collins glasses with other types based on drink complexity and visual balance. For example, we always serve a French 75 in a coupe, but a mojito gets the tall Collins for better garnish space.
That attention to detail gets noticed. And it starts with building the right base—like the Collins glass.
🏢 How to Choose the Right Collins Glass for Your Venue
I’ve tested dozens of Collins glasses from different suppliers. Some chip easily. Some feel cheap. You learn to recognize quality fast.
Look for commercial-grade durability, consistent shape, and stackable options. Choose materials that fit your environment—glass, crystal, or tempered.
Key Things to Check
Durability: Tempered glass resists cracks and heat.
Uniformity: In commercial use, even slight shape variations stand out.
Stackability: Saves space and simplifies cleanup.
Grip & Feel: Guests and staff both notice comfort.
It’s worth ordering a few samples to test. At DM Glassware, we offer samples to help you evaluate firsthand. When you’re serving 500 guests, every detail matters.
📦 Bulk Buying Tips: What to Know Before You Order
For events and venues like mine, we rarely order in small quantities. Bulk buying saves cost—but only when done right.
Before buying in bulk, know your MOQ, check packaging specs, and confirm supplier experience with high-volume hospitality orders.
Bulk Ordering Checklist
| Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| What’s the MOQ? | To plan budget and inventory |
| Is packaging protective? | Prevents breakage in transit |
| Can I mix styles in one order? | Adds flexibility for menu changes |
| Is there a sample option? | Reduces risk, checks quality before full order |
| What’s the lead time? | Helps meet event and service deadlines |
DM Glassware provides bulk-friendly packaging and clear communication on lead times. That helps me hit tight event schedules without sacrificing quality.
🎯 Custom Branding Options to Elevate Your Business
At DM Glassware, we understand that in the hospitality and event industry, branding is more than just a logo—it’s part of the guest experience. That’s why we offer full-service custom branding solutions tailored to large-scale commercial orders.
Whether you’re managing a hotel chain, planning luxury events, or sourcing for a beverage brand, our custom Collins glasses can help you make a strong, lasting impression.
Branded glassware adds value where it matters most—at the table, in photos, and in memory. When your logo or design is elegantly placed on every glass, you’re not just serving drinks. You’re reinforcing your brand story in the most subtle yet powerful way.
Our Most Popular Custom Options for B2B Clients:
1. Laser Engraving
Permanent, elegant, and highly durable. Laser engraving ensures your branding stays sharp, no matter how often your glasses are used or washed.
Ideal for fine dining, boutique hotels, and executive lounges
Excellent for detailed logos or minimal branding
Dishwasher-safe and wear-resistant
2. Screen Printing
Add vibrant color to your brand identity. We offer high-quality screen printing in single or multi-color options to match your brand palette.
Perfect for modern bars, clubs, or product launches
Long-lasting and cost-effective for large orders
FDA-compliant, safe for food and beverage use
3. Gold or Silver Rim Finishes
Add a premium, luxury touch to your Collins glasses. Rim finishes elevate your tableware to match upscale interiors and high-end experiences.
Popular with weddings, banquet services, and upscale resorts
Available in matte or glossy metallic styles
Compatible with logo printing or engraving
4. Full OEM/ODM Customization
Need something truly unique? We provide OEM/ODM solutions where you can fully customize the shape, size, weight, color, and packaging of your Collins glasses.
Fully personalized for exclusive use
Ideal for branded promotions, themed venues, or corporate gifts
Dedicated design support from concept to production
Why Commercial Buyers Choose DM Glassware
We don’t just offer custom glassware—we offer a turnkey branding solution backed by decades of manufacturing experience.
Flexible MOQs to support businesses of all sizes
Bulk-friendly packaging with export-grade protection
Fast lead times and reliable global shipping
In-house design assistance to help bring your ideas to life
Compliance-ready materials for hospitality and food service
We’ve helped thousands of businesses across 80+ countries turn simple glassware into unforgettable brand assets. Whether you’re ordering 1,000 units or 100,000, we’ll ensure consistency, quality, and a smooth ordering process from start to finish.
DM Glassware is providing custom glasswares for various occasions.
Our main products are machine-made glasswares, glass cups, glass drinkwares and tablewares for home and kitchen use. Such glasses like glass tumblers, glass mugs, whiskey glasses, shot glasses, glass candy jars, glass bowls, beer glasses, etc.
We also recommend the most suitable packaging method based on different sales types, such as different display boxes, adding stickers, tags, etc.
