Trend for balloon glasses is ruining the taste of your drinks, experts say

They are overtaking champagne flutes in popularity and are seen at the bar in London’s hippest pubs, but experts have warned that the trend for “balloon glasses” is ruining the taste of drinks.

While a large goblet can look attractive, Which? has warned that a switch away from traditional highball glasses could mean a watered-down, warm drink.

Experts at the company said: “Balloon glasses are all the rage, but the top-heavy design means you are likely to cradle the bowl in your hands which can lead to cold hands and a warm gin and tonic.”

Mixologists agree, and warn of melted ice diluting the drink. GB's World Class Bartender Of The Year, Daniel Warren, told The Telegraph:  "Gin globes or balloon glasses are an important part of gin drinking history, originating in Spain and dating back to the 1700’s. Serving a gin and tonic in this type of glass helps to serve the drink chilled and maximise the aroma of the gin.

“However, the current problem with these glasses is when the drink is made with cheap ice that melts quickly, it waters down both the drink and the flavour of the gin, working against what the glass was made to do!”

Despite this, sales of the popular goblets show no sign of slowing down, and department stores have enjoyed a boom in sales.

Nicola Hattersley, the Table top Buyer at John Lewis said: “Gin has shown no signs of slowing down with sales rising +66% this year. Gin glasses have even surpassed the sales of all glassware, including wine glasses, tumblers and champagne flutes!  

“This growing popularity can be attributed to the boom in gin sales as well as restaurants and bars continuing to get creative with gin, serving innovative and delicious cocktails for people to enjoy whilst dining out.  It hasn't taken long for our customers recreating some of these drinks when entertaining at home."

The glasses are also used at some of London’s leading gin establishments, including the London Gin Club in Soho, and the Ginstitute in Notting Hill.

The Fever Tree artisan tonic company also uses balloon glasses at all the gin events it hosts across the country.