Old Fashioned Mixers That Stir Up Perfect Cocktails
For most home bartenders, the Cocktail Kingdom Leopold Jigger and Mixing Glass set stands out as the top pick. It pairs a precise double jigger with a heavy crystal glass, giving you control and durability. Its main advantage is the weighted glass that keeps your drink cold without dilution. The main limitation is that the glass is hand wash only, which some owners find inconvenient.
An old fashioned is a simple cocktail, but its perfection depends on the tools you use. The right mixer ensures proper dilution, chilling, and stirring, which can elevate your drink from good to great.
We’ve analyzed popular options based on specifications, owner feedback, and design. Our comparisons focus on real-world usability to help you pick a mixer that fits your routine and bar setup.
The top picks, ranked
Cocktail Kingdom Leopold Jigger and Mixing Glass Set
This set includes a heavy 14 oz mixing glass and a Leopold jigger with 1 oz and 2 oz sides. The glass is thick and weighted, providing stability while stirring. Owners appreciate the clear graduations on the jigger for accurate measuring.
Pros
- Precise measurements
- Sturdy, elegant glass
- Great for stirring and chilling
Cons
- Glass is fragile if dropped
- Hand wash only
OXO Good Grips Cocktail Shaker with Mixing Glass
This two-in-one set includes a 16 oz mixing glass and a shaker top. The glass has clear markings and a handle for a secure grip. Owners like that it can be used for both stirring and shaking, saving counter space.
Pros
- Affordable and functional
- Handle offers comfortable grip
- Glass is dishwasher safe
Cons
- Plastic top may retain odors
- Not as heavy as premium options
Viski 12 oz Crystal Mixing Glass with Bar Spoon
A beautiful 12 oz crystal glass paired with a long bar spoon. The glass is lead-free and has a weighted base. Owners report that it feels luxurious and adds a professional touch to home bars.
Pros
- Elegant design
- Comes with a spoon
- Clear and durable
Cons
- Smaller capacity
- Requires hand washing
Rösle Stainless Steel Mixing Glass
A seamless stainless steel mixing glass with a copper-plated interior. It is virtually unbreakable and retains temperature well. Owners appreciate its modern look and easy cleaning, though it lacks visibility.
Pros
- Unbreakable
- Excellent temperature retention
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Cannot see liquid level
- Higher price point
Abarry Old Fashioned Mixing Glass with Jigger
Abarry offers a mixing glass with a jigger, spoon, and strainer in one package. The glass is thick and sturdy. Owners find it a great value for beginners who need all essentials in one purchase.
Pros
- All-in-one set
- Thick glass for durability
- Good for gifts
Cons
- Jigger may be less precise
- Glass is not heavy
Houdini Home Mixing Glass
A low-profile, thick glass designed for professional use. It has a wide base that prevents tipping. Owners note that it feels solid and is ideal for vigorous stirring without worrying about spills.
Pros
- Extremely stable
- Compact design
- Good for small hands
Cons
- Smaller capacity
- No markings for measurement
Crate and Barrel Mixing Glass
A simple, functional mixing glass from Crate and Barrel. It is lightweight and easy to handle. Owners appreciate its clean lines and moderate price, making it a practical addition to any bar.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Dishwasher safe
- Affordable
Cons
- Less durable than crystal
- No included accessories
How they stack up
| # | Model | Capacity | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cocktail Kingdom Leopold Jigger and Mixing Glass Set | 14 oz glass, 1 oz and 2 oz jigger | Precision and elegance | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | OXO Good Grips Cocktail Shaker with Mixing Glass | 16 oz glass | Versatility on a budget | 8.8 | Check price |
| 3 | Viski 12 oz Crystal Mixing Glass with Bar Spoon | 12 oz | Classic crystal look | 8.6 | Check price |
| 4 | Rösle Stainless Steel Mixing Glass | 14 oz | Durability and modern style | 8.4 | Check price |
| 5 | Abarry Old Fashioned Mixing Glass with Jigger | 13 oz glass | Complete starter set | 8.2 | Check price |
| 6 | Houdini Home Mixing Glass | 10 oz | Heavyweight stability | 8.0 | Check price |
| 7 | Crate and Barrel Mixing Glass | 15 oz | Everyday use | 8.1 | Check price |
How to pick the right one
Questions worth asking
What is the ideal size for an old fashioned mixing glass?
Most mixing glasses hold between 10 and 16 ounces. A 12 to 14 ounce glass is versatile for single drinks. If you often make cocktails for two, consider a 16 ounce glass to accommodate more ice and liquid.
Should I use a mixing glass or a shaker for an old fashioned?
An old fashioned is typically stirred, not shaken. Stirring gently mixes the ingredients while controlling dilution. A mixing glass is designed for this purpose, but you can also use a pint glass if you don’t have one.
Can I put my mixing glass in the dishwasher?
It depends on the material. Many glass mixers are dishwasher safe, but crystal is often hand wash only. Stainless steel is usually safe, but check for copper accents. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
What is the best material for a mixing glass?
Glass is traditional and allows you to see the drink. Crystal is more elegant but fragile. Stainless steel is durable and great for temperature retention, but you can’t see the mixture. Your choice depends on your priorities.
Do I need a bar spoon with my mixing glass?
A bar spoon is essential for stirring properly. It has a long handle that reaches the bottom of the glass. Many mixing glasses come with a spoon, but you can use any long spoon if you’re just starting out.
How do I prevent my mixing glass from breaking?
Handle it with care. Use a glass with a thick base for stability. Avoid sudden temperature changes, like pouring hot liquid into a cold glass. Store it in a safe place where it won’t be knocked over.
What is the difference between a mixing glass and a shaker?
A mixing glass is used for stirring cocktails, while a shaker is used for shaking. Stirring is preferred for spirit-forward drinks like the old fashioned to keep the texture smooth. Shaking is for cocktails with juices or dairy.
Are expensive mixing glasses worth it?
Expensive glasses often use higher quality materials like crystal or heavy glass, which can feel better and last longer. Budget options can work well, but they may be thinner and less stable. Consider how often you’ll use it and your budget.
Can I use a mason jar as a mixing glass?
Yes, a mason jar can work in a pinch. It’s sturdy and holds enough liquid. However, it may not have a smooth pouring rim, and it can be more difficult to stir without a proper spoon. For regular use, a dedicated mixing glass is better.
How do I clean a mixing glass with copper interior?
Copper requires gentle care. Hand wash with mild soap and warm water. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that can scratch the surface. Dry immediately to prevent tarnishing. Some copper interiors are sealed, so check the instructions.
Our take
If you want a reliable, elegant mixer that performs well and lasts, choose the Cocktail Kingdom Leopold set. It offers excellent balance and precision, which are essential for a perfect old fashioned. For those on a budget, the OXO Good Grips set is a practical alternative that still delivers good results. But for the best overall experience, invest in the Cocktail Kingdom.
