When Christmas gatherings begin, tables fill with fizz, wine is poured generously, and those small festive moments become memories we treasure. But have you ever wondered why certain drinks taste better in the correct glass? Or which type of glass is best for Christmas cocktails, prosecco and festive dining? Glassware is more than decoration - the shape, height and style can change the aroma, flavour and overall drinking experience.
Whether you’re hosting Christmas dinner, preparing a New Year’s Eve drinks trolley or looking for stylish gifting ideas, Mash + Mint has curated a glassware selection from Emma Britton Glassware that blends beauty, function and celebration. From tumblers to flutes, this is your seasonal guide to choosing the right glass for every occasion - because the right glass simply makes the moment.
Why Does the Shape of a Glass Matter?
This is one of the most commonly searched questions online, especially around the festive season when entertaining takes centre stage. The answer is simple: glass shape influences how a drink hits the palate, how aromas are released and even how bubbles form. A taller glass preserves fizz, a wider bowl opens wine, and a thick-bottom tumbler keeps cocktails crisp and cold.
So let’s explore the most popular glass types, how they differ, and when to reach for each one.
Tumblers - Everyday Style with Endless Possibility
Tumblers are one of the most versatile styles of glassware and a staple in every home. Recognised by their short height, straight or gently curved sides and solid base, they are perfect for drinks served neat or over ice.
When to Use Tumblers
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Whiskey or spirits on the rocks
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Espresso martinis or short cocktails
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Soft drinks and juice at the table
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Dessert presentations (think mini trifles or tiramisu!)
Best Festive Occasions
Christmas Eve board games, relaxed evenings by the fire, Boxing Day drinks, everyday family gatherings.
Tumblers also make excellent stocking fillers and host gifts, especially when paired with artisan chocolates, cocktail mixers or a bottle of something special. Minimalist, elegant and easy to hold - they’re a quiet luxury that works all year round.
Hi Ball Glasses - Refreshing, Light & Perfect for Cocktails
If you’ve ever searched “What glass is best for G&T?” or “Which glass for cocktails?”, the answer is often the Hi Ball. Taller than a tumbler, with extra room for ice and mixers, Hi Balls are designed for long drinks.
What Are Hi Balls Used For?
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Gin & tonic
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Mojitos and spritz cocktails
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Lemonade & soft drinks for guests
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Iced coffee on winter mornings or summer days
Why They’re Perfect for Christmas
Hi Balls are hosting heroes - festive spritzers with cranberry, rosemary and prosecco, seasonal cocktails with cinnamon syrup, mocktails for the kids - they’re the glass you’ll use constantly over the holidays.
They also look beautiful styled on a bar cart with garnishes, herbs and mixed drinks ready to go.
Wine Glasses - Red, White & Every Festive Toast
Wine glasses are not just for wine lovers - they’re for anyone who enjoys slow dining, conversation and the ritual of celebration. A wine glass typically features a tall stem and rounded bowl, designed to encourage swirling and release aroma.
What Types of Wine Glass Should You Use?
White wine usually suits a slightly smaller bowl for crispness. Red wine benefits from a wider bowl, allowing flavours to breathe.
Perfect for
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Christmas dinner tables
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Gifting to wine-loving friends
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Seasonal dinners from November to New Year
Whether filled with red beside a roaring fire, or chilled white with festive canapés, wine glasses bring a sense of occasion - even to a Wednesday evening in December.
Champagne Flutes - Made for Fizz and Celebration
The search term “best glass for prosecco/champagne” peaks every December - and for good reason. Flutes are tall and slender, designed to preserve carbonation and showcase streams of bubbles rising beautifully to the surface.
Use Champagne Flutes For
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Prosecco
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Champagne
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Sparkling wine
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Elderflower fizz or non-alcoholic sparkling options
Occasions
Christmas morning mimosas, New Year’s Eve countdowns, proposal celebrations, gifting moments, wedding toasts.
Flutes feel inherently celebratory - the kind of glass that signals magic is about to happen.
Coupe Glasses - Vintage Glam for Cocktails & Champagne
If you love a statement table or vintage mood, coupes are for you. Rounded, shallow and glamorous, they create an entirely different drinking experience - one filled with charm.
You’ll often see people ask “Flute or coupe for champagne?”. A flute keeps bubbles longer, but a coupe enhances aroma and feels luxurious, especially for cocktails.
Use Coupes For
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Champagne towers (a party showstopper!)
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Espresso martinis & shaken cocktails
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Festive dessert serving (mousse, sorbet, trifle layers)
Their old-Hollywood energy makes them perfect for glamorous gatherings, New Year's parties and winter weddings.
Carafes - The Centrepiece of the Table
A Carafe is where style meets practicality. Taller than a glass, designed for pouring wine, infused water or cocktails, carafes slow the table down - encouraging guests to refill, chat and savour the moment.
What to Use a Carafe For
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Serving wine elegantly
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Berry & mint infused water
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Sharing cocktails across the table
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Breakfast orange juice on Christmas morning
A Carafe instantly transforms a table setting from everyday to festive dining. Pair it with coordinating glasses for a thoughtful gift set.
Choosing Glassware as Gifts for Christmas
Glassware is one of the most useful, timeless and beautiful Christmas gifts, especially when thoughtfully paired:
| Gift Idea | Glass Type |
|---|---|
| Champagne & artisan truffles | Flutes or Coupes |
| Whiskey + ginger syrup | Tumblers |
| Cocktail kit + garnish set | Hi Balls |
| Wine with a festive stopper | Wine Glasses |
| Host gift with seasonal punch | Carafe |
Gift-ready, easy to wrap, and always appreciated - glassware is a present that becomes part of someone’s home and story.
Explore Emma Britton Glassware at Mash + Mint
We’ve curated glassware that feels special - pieces that look beautiful on your Christmas table, elevate everyday moments in January, and last for years of celebrations. Whether you prefer sleek contemporary lines or vintage-inspired charm, there’s a style for every home and every drink.
Enjoy setting the table this festive season - the right glassware turns every sip into an experience. https://mashandmint.co.uk/collections/emma-britton
