What type of glass is typically used for serving a straight up Gibson?

The Gibson is a classic cocktail that is traditionally served straight up, meaning it is chilled and served without ice. The appropriate glassware for such cocktails emphasizes the drink's presentation and enhances the drinking experience through its shape and size.

A martini glass is designed with a wide, shallow bowl that allows for a wide surface area to showcase the drink's clarity and garnishes, which are often a key component of cocktails like the Gibson. In this case, the garnish is typically a pickled onion rather than the more common olive or twist found in other cocktails. The shape of the martini glass also facilitates easy sipping and aeration, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the drink.

The other glass types, while useful for different kinds of beverages, lack the specific design suited for a straight up cocktail. Highball glasses are too tall and narrow for this purpose, while old-fashioned and Collins glasses are better suited for cocktails served over ice or those containing more ingredients, like mixers or garnishes that require a larger volume. The martini glass stands out as the ideal choice for a Gibson, aligning with the traditions of cocktail presentation and enjoyment.