Arcoroc Louisiane

Four centilitres does not sound like much, but it decides whether there is still room for plenty of ice. The tumbler of 32 cl is the size for water, soft drinks and juice at the table, where you add a couple of cubes at most. The 36 cl is the one you reach for as soon as real ice comes into play, because you are still left with enough drink to enjoy. If you mainly pour water and want more choice in shape, the wider selection of water glasses is a more logical starting point. For something taller and narrower, where the fizz lasts longer, take a look at the highball glasses.

A tumbler this size is not a cocktail glass, but it works well for a mixed drink without any fuss. For a White Russian you fill the 36 cl with ice, pour in vodka and coffee liqueur and let the cream run slowly over the top so the layer stays visible. A Tequila Sunrise works in the same glass, letting the grenadine sink down the side last instead of stirring it through. Always add the ice first and pour afterwards, so the drink waters down more slowly.

The glass is tempered, which means the entire wall was pre-stressed during production, not just the rim. That is why a Louisiane can handle a full dishwasher and the temperature difference between hot rinse water and an ice-cold filling. When tempered glass breaks, it falls apart into blunt pieces rather than sharp splinters, which makes all the difference behind a bar. Place them upside down in the rack so no water sits in the base, and let them cool before you stack them.

You will find other series from the same hospitality range at Arcoroc, with clear and coloured models side by side. If you are after a thicker, lower glass for whisky, take a look at the old fashioned glasses, where the base is heavier than on this tumbler. And if you are mixing at home rather than just pouring, that starts with a bar spoon to stir cold without diluting your drink.