As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can share that shot glasses come in various sizes and there is no official standard for their capacity. While most shot glasses hold around 1.25 oz. to 1.5 oz., it is important to note that some shot glasses can be smaller, holding less than an ounce, while others can be larger, holding over 3 ounces.
The lack of a uniform standard for shot glass sizes can be attributed to the fact that the concept of a “shot” is not specific to a particular measurement. Shots are typically used to serve distilled spirits or liqueurs in small quantities, meant to be consumed quickly. The size of a shot can vary depending on cultural preferences, drinking traditions, and the type of beverage being served.
In my experience, the most common size for a shot glass is around 1.5 oz. This size is often used in bars and restaurants to serve standard shots of spirits like vodka, tequila, or whiskey. However, it is worth mentioning that different establishments may have their own variations in shot glass sizes based on their individual preferences or regional norms.
It is interesting to note that shot glasses are not only used for serving alcoholic beverages but also for measuring ingredients in cocktails and mixed drinks. In cocktail recipes, a shot is often referred to as 1 ounce, which corresponds to the standard 1.5 oz. shot glass being filled about two-thirds full. However, bartenders may use different sized shot glasses or jiggers to accurately measure and pour ingredients, depending on the recipe requirements.
To summarize, there is no fixed measurement for a shot glass, and their capacity can vary. While most shot glasses hold around 1.25 oz. to 1.5 oz., they can be smaller or larger. The most common size for a shot glass is approximately 1.5 oz., but this can differ based on cultural preferences, drinking traditions, and the type of beverage being served. It is always important to consider the specific shot glass being used and any variations that may exist in different establishments or regions.