The name “Nick and Nora” for these particular cocktail glasses was given by bartender Dale DeGroff, who is well-known for his expertise in mixology. DeGroff was hired in 1987 to oversee the bar program at the prestigious Rainbow Room restaurant in New York City. As part of his role, he was tasked with crafting a cocktail menu that showcased both classic and forgotten pre-Prohibition era drinks.
During his research and experimentation with various cocktails, DeGroff came across a cocktail glass that he found particularly suited for serving certain types of drinks. These glasses were smaller and more delicate than the traditional martini glasses commonly used at the time. DeGroff believed that these glasses had the perfect shape and size to enhance the drinking experience of certain cocktails, especially those that required minimal dilution and a smaller serving size.
Inspired by the elegance and sophistication of classic detective films, DeGroff decided to name these glasses after the fictional detective couple Nick and Nora Charles. Nick and Nora Charles were characters created by author Dashiell Hammett in his novel “The Thin Man” and later popularized through a series of films in the 1930s and 1940s. The characters were known for their wit, charm, and love for cocktails.
By associating these glasses with the glamorous and stylish world of Nick and Nora Charles, DeGroff aimed to add a touch of nostalgia and elegance to the drinking experience at the Rainbow Room. The name “Nick and Nora” quickly caught on and became synonymous with these specific cocktail glasses.
Using the Nick and Nora glasses not only added a visually appealing element to the presentation of cocktails but also enhanced the taste and aroma of the drinks. The narrower rim compared to traditional martini glasses helps to concentrate the aromas, allowing the drinker to fully appreciate the nuances of the cocktail. The smaller size of the glass also ensures that the drink remains chilled throughout the drinking experience, without being diluted too quickly.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of enjoying cocktails served in Nick and Nora glasses on several occasions. The delicate and elegant design of the glass adds a touch of sophistication to the overall experience. The smaller size feels comfortable in the hand and allows for a more intimate and focused drinking experience.
The name “Nick and Nora” for these cocktail glasses was given by Dale DeGroff, a renowned bartender who sought to bring back classic and forgotten cocktails at the Rainbow Room. Inspired by the elegance of fictional detective characters Nick and Nora Charles, DeGroff associated these glasses with sophistication and nostalgia. The unique shape and size of the glasses not only provide visual appeal but also enhance the taste and aroma of the cocktails served in them.