Like so many things in the U.S., our cocktails have become supersized. For instance, Martini glasses some 50 years ago probably measured 2 oz. to 4 oz., while modern glasses are closer to 8 oz. or 10 oz.–if not more.
Some mixologists aim to make better Martinis by serving them in smaller glasses, which keeps them cold and refreshing. The challenge with this approach is that customers used to oversize cocktails glasses might assume they are being cheated with a stingy pour. One way around this, according to some experts, is to serve smaller drinks in quirky vintage glasses for which customers have no size expectations.
Another upside to smaller cocktails is that the drinks can be bolder: A spirit-forward classic may be fascinating in small quantities but overpowering when supersized. And smaller cocktails, like smaller plates, enable guests to sample a number of different menu items without overdoing it.
For more on the trend of smaller cocktails, read the full Wall Street Journal article.