The name “hurricane glasses” is derived from the drink that they were specifically designed to serve – the Hurricane cocktail. This iconic cocktail originated at Pat O'Brien's Bar in New Orleans, known for its vibrant nightlife and festive atmosphere. The Hurricane cocktail gained popularity in the 1940s and 1950s, and the glassware used to serve it became synonymous with the drink itself.
The Hurricane cocktail was created as a way to use up excess rum, a common occurrence in New Orleans due to its historical ties to Caribbean trade. The drink typically consists of a blend of light and dark rum, passion fruit syrup, lemon juice, and sometimes grenadine or other fruit juices. It is often garnished with a citrus slice or cherry.
The glassware used to serve the Hurricane cocktail is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The hurricane glass is tall and curvaceous, with a wide bowl at the bottom that tapers towards the top, resembling the shape of a hurricane lamp or lantern. This unique shape allows for the proper presentation and enjoyment of the cocktail.
The hurricane glass is designed to accommodate a larger volume of liquid, typically holding around 20 US fluid ounces (590 ml; 21 imp fl oz). This larger capacity is ideal for mixed drinks like the Hurricane, which often contain multiple ingredients and require ample space for ice and garnishes.
The wide bowl of the hurricane glass allows for the flavors and aromas of the cocktail to be fully appreciated. It also provides room for the addition of crushed ice, which helps to keep the drink chilled without diluting it too quickly. The tapering top of the glass helps to concentrate the aromas, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
The name “hurricane” is a fitting choice for both the cocktail and the glassware. Hurricanes are powerful tropical storms known for their swirling winds and destructive force. The tall and curvaceous shape of the hurricane glass mirrors the swirling motion of a hurricane, while the vibrant colors of the cocktail evoke a sense of energy and excitement.
Additionally, the Hurricane cocktail became popular during a time when hurricanes were a frequent occurrence in the Gulf Coast region, including New Orleans. The name “hurricane” thus became synonymous with both the cocktail and the glassware used to serve it.
Hurricane glasses are named after the Hurricane cocktail, which originated at Pat O'Brien's Bar in New Orleans. The glassware is designed to accommodate the cocktail's ingredients and enhance its presentation and enjoyment. The unique shape of the hurricane glass, resembling a hurricane lamp, and its larger capacity make it a distinctive and iconic vessel for serving mixed drinks.