With so many unique drinkware options popping up every now and then, there’s so much to experiment with! But for those who appreciate tradition and classic style, nothing beats the sophisticated charm of coupe glass cocktails. I hope you’re ready to dive into a world steeped in tradition, oozing class, and shining with timeless elegance — the fascinating realm of coupe glass cocktails.
Coupe glasses, having held the likes of Marie Antoinette’s exquisite Champagne and iconic cocktails of the centuries-old American speakeasies, possess a nostalgic aura that no other glassware can replicate. These shallow, broad-rimmed glasses not only allow your favorite spirits to breathe and the aromas to rise to your nose, but their elegant stem and curved bowl also add an air of luxury and refinement to the cocktail experience.
Serving a cocktail is more than just mixing perfect ingredients; it’s about evoking a feeling, a sense of sophistication. It’s about turning an average evening into an unforgettable affair. As someone deeply passionate about the harmonious blend of art and science that goes into crafting cocktails, I’ve always been captivated by the way a perfect coupe glass can elegantly complete a drink, separate from merely pouring a concoction into a glass.
1. Classic Champagne Cocktail
Regarding stylish coupe glass cocktails, the Classic Champagne Cocktail is undoubtedly one of the most iconic. A refined and simple concoction, it dates back to the 19th century. To make this timeless cocktail, you’ll need Champagne, a sugar cube, Angostura bitters, and a twist of lemon peel for garnish.
Start by soaking the sugar cube in a few dashes of Angostura bitters and placing it at the bottom of your coupe glass. Next, slowly pour chilled Champagne over the sugar cube and watch the enthusiasm come to life. Finally, garnish with a twist of lemon peel. This delicate blend of sweetness and acidity, combined with the bubbly nature of the Champagne, creates a dance of flavors on your palate, making it a perfect celebration drink or simply elevating an ordinary evening.
Although initially intended for toasts and special occasions, the Classic Champagne Cocktail continues to be a popular choice for both seasoned cocktail enthusiasts and novices.Â
2. French 75
The French 75 is an effervescent and sharp sensation that boasts a sophisticated integration of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and Champagne. Created in the early 20th century, this cocktail is a testament to the union of intoxicating spirits with a lively touch of fizz.
To create this mesmerizing elixir, you’ll need to prepare a classic gin sour — by shaking gin, lemon juice, and sugar — and then strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass. Top off your concoction with chilled Champagne and garnish with a lemon twist. The combination of spirited gin with the fresh tang of lemon juice, laced with sparkling Champagne, creates a refreshing, crisp taste for a warm summer evening or a festive soiree. The French 75 proves that simple ingredients can lead to complex and captivating results.
This cocktail stands as a symbol of Parisian nightlife and refinement. With its richness hailing from gin and the elegance of Champagne, the French 75 offers a dazzling taste of history, while the coupe glass complements its luxurious persona superbly.
3. Daiquiri
Although people generally associate Daiquiris with tropical vacations and long-stemmed glasses, the classic Daiquiri is, in reality, a simple, refreshing drink elegantly served in a coupe glass. The origins of this classic cocktail can be traced back to Cuba in the early 1900s.
Made with white rum, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup, the classic Daiquiri is a delicate blend of well-balanced ingredients that celebrates the spirit of Cuban mixology.
This subtle, tangy, and refined cocktail offers a timeless taste, far removed from the frozen fruit concoctions that have become so popular today. The classic Daiquiri’s simple yet sophisticated composition exudes elegance when served in a coupe glass, making it an ideal option for those who appreciate finely crafted balance in their cocktails.
4. Manhattan
A true classic, the Manhattan has captivated cocktail enthusiasts since the late 1800s. With its unique blend of bourbon or rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters, this strong and enveloping drink embodies the glamour and personality of its namesake city.
The key to crafting a perfect Manhattan lies in the balance of its components. Stir bourbon or rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters with ice, and then strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.Â
The very embodiment of poise and urban sophistication, the Manhattan serves as a reminder of simpler times when people gathered in speakeasies to sip on exquisite drinks and socialize. The elegant coupe glass emphasizes the timeless allure of this classic cocktail, while the rich hues of the whiskey and vermouth mingle seductively with the subtle bitterness of the bitters.
5. Hemingway Daiquiri
Created in honor of the renowned writer and cocktail lover, Ernest Hemingway, the Hemingway Daiquiri is a refreshing, grapefruit-infused spin on the classic Daiquiri. Known for his love of potent cocktails and his distaste for overly sweet drinks, Hemingway’s namesake drink perfectly incorporates a tart and strong blend of flavors.
The Hemingway Daiquiri comprises white rum, fresh lime and grapefruit juice, maraschino liqueur, and simple syrup. Shake these ingredients with ice and strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass, retaining the smoothness and elegance of the original Daiquiri. Garnish with a grapefruit twist to complete the presentation.
This zesty and enlivening cocktail is perfect for those seeking a tart, complex, and vibrant drink. Its light, crisp, and rejuvenating character appeals not only to literary enthusiasts but also to those seeking a cocktail that goes beyond the conventional. The Hemingway Daiquiri is an ode to the fearless explorer of flavors and the coupe glass perfectly elevates the experience.
6. Bee’s Knees
A marvel from the Prohibition era, the Bee’s Knees cocktail is a sweet and citrusy treasure. Made with gin, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup, this simple drink serves as a shining example of how a few well-balanced ingredients can create an exquisite masterpiece.
To prepare the Bee’s Knees, shake gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup with ice, and then strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish this delightful concoction with a lemon twist, accentuating the vibrant citrus aroma. The harmonious blend of zesty lemon and warm, sweet honey elevates the botanical flavors of the gin, making it an elegant choice for those warm, slow evenings.
The coupe glass lends an extra dimension of sophistication to this lovingly crafted cocktail. The Bee’s Knees is not only a nod to a bygone era but also a reminder of the creativity that flourished during Prohibition, continuously inspiring cocktail lovers across generations.
7. Sidecar
With origins in London and Paris in the early 20th century, the Sidecar is an enchanting and bright cocktail that exudes European panache. The elegant combination of Cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice creates a powerful harmony of flavors that delights the senses.
To create the Sidecar, shake the Cognac, orange liqueur, and freshly squeezed lemon juice with ice, and then strain the mixture into a chilled, sugar-rimmed coupe glass. Adding an orange twist for garnish will bolster the citrus aroma and round out the profile of this exquisite cocktail.
The Sidecar, with its blend of warm French Cognac and vibrant citrus notes, has been a favorite among cocktail fans for over a century. Its intricate balance of flavors and unwavering appeal make it an excellent choice to serve in a coupe glass, ensuring that both taste and presentation are equally enchanting.
8. Clover Club
A delightful pre-Prohibition era cocktail, the Clover Club features an irresistible blend of gin, raspberry syrup, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of egg white. This beautiful pink concoction, named after a famous gentlemen’s club in Philadelphia, is an ode to the sophistication and timeless elegance of the early 1900s.
To make this enchanting drink, simply shake the gin, raspberry syrup, lemon juice, and egg white with ice, and then double strain the frothy mixture into a chilled coupe glass. The stunning texture and color and the raspberry garnish perched on the rim create an eye-catching presentation.
The Clover Club’s charming combination of fruity sweetness and smooth froth is a marvelous escape from more conventional cocktails. With the berry-red hue and delicate foam resting gracefully in a coupe glass, it serves as an exquisite example of the talent and artistry that goes into crafting an impeccable cocktail.
9. White Lady
Elegance, class, and sophistication come to life in the delicious White Lady cocktail. This classic drink said to have originated in London during the 1920s, features a delicate blend of gin, Cointreau, fresh lemon juice, and egg white, producing a captivating concoction with a velvety smooth texture.
To create the perfect White Lady, shake gin, Cointreau, lemon juice, and egg white with ice, and double strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass. The frothy, cloud-like texture of the egg white forms a harmonious balance with the zest of the lemon and the warmth of the gin, providing a delightful sensory experience.
The White Lady’s silky character and ethereal appearance make it ideal for serving in a coupe glass, as it highlights this refined drink’s stunning presentation and graceful nuances. This alluring concoction invites you to escape into the Roaring Twenties, a time of glamour, bubbling excitement, and effortless class.
10. Aviation
A standout drink from the early 20th century, the Aviation cocktail blends classic ingredients with a touch of the unexpected. Comprising London Dry gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and the delicate floral notes of crème de violette, the result is a dreamy and aromatic masterpiece.
To make the Aviation, shake the gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and crème de violette with ice, then strain the mixture into your chilled coupe glass. The unique composition of ingredients, along with the unmistakable hue, give the Aviation an air of mystery and intrigue.
The coupe glass perfectly showcases this enigmatic cocktail’s exquisite color and stylish presentation. Aviation evokes a sense of adventure, romance, and a longing for the golden age of aviation, making it an irresistible choice for those yearning for a taste of the past.
11. Bourbon Crusta
An innovative cocktail that dates back to the 1800s, the Bourbon Crusta is a beautiful combination of rich, velvety bourbon, bright citrus varietes, maraschino liqueur, and a touch of bitters. The Bourbon Crusta is a captivating drink showcasing bourbon’s versatility and depth.
To create the Bourbon Crusta, shake bourbon, lemon and orange juice, maraschino liqueur, simple syrup, and orange bitters with ice. Strain the mixture into a sugar-rimmed coupe glass, showcasing its luxurious hues and fragrant aroma. Garnish with a long spiral of lemon and orange peel to add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
The Bourbon Crusta’s delightful blend of flavors and stunning presentation in a coupe glass set it apart from traditional whiskey cocktails. This unique concoction will impress bourbon enthusiasts and cocktail lovers, elevating any gathering to a truly memorable occasion.
12. Corpse Reviver No. 2
A classic cocktail from The Savoy Cocktail Book, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a refreshing and invigorating blend of gin, Lillet Blanc, Cointreau, and lemon juice, with a dash of absinthe for that extra kick. This enlivening concoction was historically considered a hangover remedy, offering a bright and refreshing experience for those who indulged too much the night before.
The Corpse Reviver No. 2 livens up the senses while the coupe glass accentuates its elegance and class. It’s a delightful mixture that will intrigue cocktail enthusiasts and capture the imagination of those searching for uniquely invigorating drinks.
13. Scofflaw
Born out of the Prohibition era in Paris, the Scofflaw cocktail embodies the rebellious spirit and sly sophistication of its time. This tantalizing concoction features rye whiskey, dry vermouth, lemon juice, grenadine, and a few dashes of orange bitters, creating a luscious, citrus-forward character.
Combine the rye whiskey, dry vermouth, lemon juice, grenadine, and orange bitters in a shaker with ice. Shake the mixture vigorously and strain it into a chilled coupe glass to reveal its enticing, rosy-hued beauty.Â
Served in the elegant coupe glass, the Scofflaw is a testament to the ingenuity and refined taste of the speakeasy era. This delightful cocktail will have you longing for a time when sipping a forbidden beverage was thrilling and glamorous.
14. Pisco Sour
Hailing from the vibrant lands of Peru, the Pisco Sour is a magnificent blend of bold flavors and alluring texture. This memorable concoction combines the potent spirit of Pisco with the tangy freshness of lime juice, sweet simple syrup, egg white, and a dash of bitters, culminating in a glamorous cocktail experience.
Begin by shaking Pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white with ice to create a rich, frothy texture. Double-strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass, showcasing its velvety, cloud-like character. Sprinkle a few drops of aromatic bitters on top, providing a burst of color and an added layer of flavor complexity.
The Pisco Sour’s delicate balance of tangy, sweet, and strong components and enchanting texture make it a perfect choice for a coupe glass cocktail. Its sense of luxury and exquisite flavors will transport you to the lively streets of Lima and immerse you in a world of vibrant, imaginative cocktail-making.
15. Martinez
Widely regarded as the predecessor to the legendary Martini, the Martinez is a delicious and elegant cocktail that features gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and a dash of orange bitters. Its complex flavors and historical connection to the iconic Martini make it an irresistible choice for a coupe glass cocktail.
Stir gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and orange bitters with ice to achieve a perfectly chilled and balanced mixture. Strain the contents into a chilled coupe glass, bestowing this alluring cocktail’s ideal temperature and smoothness. Garnish with a lemon twist, which enhances the aroma and completes the Martinez experience.
The Martinez offers refuge to those who appreciate vintage cocktails and the art of delicate balance in their composition. Served in a coupe glass, this timeless libation serves as a tribute to the sophistication that marked the inception of the golden cocktail era.
16. Vesper
Introduced to the world by James Bond in Ian Fleming’s novel Casino Royale, the Vesper is an exquisite harmony of gin, vodka, and the now elusive Kina Lillet combined in a cool, sleek, and incredibly potent cocktail. To recreate the Vesper with today’s available ingredients, replace Kina Lillet with Cocchi Americano (an Italian aperitif wine) and tap into the spirit of the timeless Martini that has captivated generations.
Use a mixing glass to stir equal parts of gin and vodka, along with a splash of Cocchi Americano. Strain the smooth, crisp mixture into a coupe glass and garnish with a twist of lemon, which heightens the cocktail’s brilliance and all-around appeal.
The Vesper is more than an ordinary cocktail — it’s laced with charisma and the air of sophistication surrounding James Bond. Served in a coupe glass, this elegant cocktail will make you feel like part of a secret world where glamour and intrigue go hand in hand.
17. The Last Word
A famed Prohibition-era cocktail that was revived in the 21st century, The Last Word is a beautiful symphony of gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Its distinctive, refreshing blend of flavors showcases a work of art that’s equal parts herbaceous, sweet, tangy, and pungent.
Holding The Last Word in a coupe glass is like holding a piece of cocktail history. Its unique flavor profile and vibrant hue invite you to discover and revel in the resurrected art of mixology.
18. Southside
Widely believed to hail from the Prohibition era as a way of masking the raw taste of homemade spirits, the Southside cocktail is a refreshing and charming blend of gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and mint leaves. This drink represents a bright moment in American cocktail history, and the coupe glass further highlights the Southside’s sophistication.
To create the Southside, gently muddle mint leaves with simple syrup in a shaker. Add gin and lemon juice, fill the shaker with ice, and shake until chilled and well-blended. Double strain the contents into a coupe glass to catch small ice chips and mint leaves for a smooth, enjoyable experience.
The Southside is a reminder of the American Prohibition era when enjoying a cocktail also meant a taste of adventure and exhilaration. The coupe glass adds a layer of grace and refinement to this minty-fresh drink, ensuring that every sip is a tribute to an enigmatic time and a celebration of modern mixology.
19. Fitzgerald
The Fitzgerald is a delightful, tangy twist on the classic gin sour. This beautiful concoction consists of gin, freshly squeezed lemon juice, rich simple syrup, and dashes of Angostura bitters. Created by legendary bartender Dale DeGroff, the Fitzgerald captures the essence of balance, grace, and intrigue.
Shake gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters with ice to create an irresistible blend. Strain the mixture into a coupe glass, where the beautiful crimson hue from the bitters is given center stage. Add a twist of lemon for garnish.
The Fitzgerald, with its captivating color and graceful balance of flavors, feels right at home in a coupe glass. It’s a testament to the beauty of simplicity and a gentle reminder that classic cocktails still have a place in the modern mixologist’s repertoire.
20. Pegu Club
Originating from the British Colonial era, the Pegu Club cocktail can be traced back to Myanmar in the 1920s. This fascinating libation features a blend of London Dry gin, orange curaçao, aromatic bitters, and freshly squeezed lime juice, offering a taste of exotic influences and colonial discovery.
Shake gin, orange curaçao, lime juice, and Angostura bitters with ice to achieve a harmonious and well-blended mixture. Strain the contents into a chilled coupe glass, allowing the captivating, exotic flavors to shine. Garnish with a lime twist, accentuating the zesty nature of the drink.
The Pegu Club cocktail transports you to an era of exploration, adventure, and the melding of cultures, all encapsulated in an elegant coupe glass. The delectable blend of flavors tells a story of journeys taken, exquisite moments shared, and the art of cocktail-making transcending boundaries and uniting people across the globe.
