As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that the measurement of a shot glass can vary depending on who you ask. While there is no federally-mandated shot glass size in the United States, there is a general consensus among bartenders that a standard shot glass holds about 1.5 ounces, which is equivalent to 44 milliliters.
Interestingly, the state of Utah is the only state that has officially defined a shot measurement, and it aligns with the bartenders' standard of 1.5 ounces. This means that if you order a shot in Utah, you can expect to be served a 1.5-ounce pour.
However, it is important to note that shot glass sizes can differ across different countries and cultures. For example, in some European countries, a standard shot is typically around 2 ounces (60 milliliters), while in Japan, a shot glass can be as small as 1 ounce (30 milliliters). These variations highlight the cultural differences and preferences when it comes to serving and consuming alcoholic beverages.
In my personal experience, I have encountered shot glasses of various sizes throughout my career in the hospitality industry. Some bars and restaurants may use larger shot glasses, especially when serving specialty shots or cocktails that require more volume. On the other hand, some establishments may opt for smaller shot glasses to promote responsible drinking and portion control.
It is also worth mentioning that shot glasses are not only used for alcoholic beverages but can also be utilized for measuring small amounts of ingredients in cocktail recipes or for serving non-alcoholic shooters. In these cases, the standard shot glass measurement of 1.5 ounces can be useful for precise measurements in mixology.
To summarize, while there is no universal shot glass measurement, many U.S. bartenders consider a standard shot to be 1.5 ounces or 44 milliliters. However, it is important to be aware that shot glass sizes can vary across different countries and cultures, and establishments may have their own preferences or variations.