How Many Ounces in a Shot Glass: A Complete Guide
Trainee bartenders, amateur mixologists, and even baristas might need to know the answer to one question: How many ounces in a shot glass? Using a shot glass to measure liquor, coffee syrups, and flavorings is simpler when you know how much it holds.
However, it’s a surprisingly complex topic. It turns out that shot glasses come in different sizes and shapes. Plus, the definition of a “shot” is different all over the world. Here, we’ll do our best to answer the question, “How many ounces in a shot glass?” and provide some insights into the world of mixology.
Shot Glass Versus Shot
The first thing we need to address when explaining how many ounces in a shot glass is the difference in definitions. A single shot of spirits or liquor is not necessarily the same as the volume of a shot glass.
One shot is measured as 1.48 ounces in the United States. However, not all shot glasses hold exactly that amount. If you want a shot of whiskey and a splash of soda, your bartender will measure a shot using a jigger or other measuring tool. However, if you ask for a shot of tequila, you’ll normally get a brimmed shot glass — plus some lime and salt.
But does that mean these shot glasses hold exactly 1.48 ounces of tequila? That’s unlikely. The amount of tequila might depend on the bar’s policy — and the customer’s attitude. Also, some bar employees will round the amount in a shot up to 1.5 ounces. In fact, in Utah, that’s the official amount per shot.
Head north to Canada and your shots only contain 1.44 ounces. Cross the Atlantic and drink in a U.K. pub, and shots are only 0.88 ounces. These are usually measured out using optics — a device attached to the bottle that delivers equal-size portions of liquor every time.
The best value shots are in Japan and Italy, where some bars serve a single shot in a whopping 2.02 ounces.
Note: Shots of coffee syrup can range from 1.48 to 1.55 ounces. If you want a little more flavor in your frappe, just tell your barista.
Shot Glass Versus Jigger
We mentioned jiggers in the previous section, but what are they? A mixologist — someone who makes cocktails and other mixed drinks — uses a jigger to measure fluids. A bartender’s jigger usually has two sides. One holds a single shot. Flip it, and the larger side holds a double.
Confusingly, many shot glasses also hold a double. Others have space for a single shot but with a little extra space at the top. These glasses are ideal for serving shots with a salt or sugar rim. Dip the shot glass in lemon or lime. Place the glass upside down in some salt or sugar. Then, use a jigger to measure a single shot into the glass. The gap between the liquor and the salt allows you to taste both contrasting flavors.
Styles of Shot Glass
Learning how many ounces in a shot glass involves many different types and styles of glasses. Standard shot glasses usually hold just a little more than a single shot. They often have thick glass bottoms which makes the liquor look fantastic. It also makes the glass look fuller than it is — a great bar-tending technique to keep partygoers happy without having to deal with rowdy drunks.
There is also the choice between square and round glasses. Both can hold similar amounts, but square shot glasses can be a little sturdier and less prone to knocks and spills.
Tall shot glasses sometimes hold a double shot. These are perfect for making shot cocktails, also called shooters or shooter cocktails. Many of these involve layering different liquors or spirits for visual effect. For example, a B-52 shows stripes of Kahlua, Irish cream liqueur, and Grand Marnier. Since these cocktails are all about the looks, bartenders usually choose a transparent glass.
For shots of straight liquor like tequila or rum, any color of glass is fine. Many bars or restaurants invest in customized shot glasses and might even sell them as souvenirs. Frosted shot glasses are popular for this purpose.
How Many Ounces in a Shot Glass? The Final Answer
Shot glass volumes differ depending on the bar you’re in, where in the world you are, and the type of glass. A shooter cocktail could be the size of two entire shots. Yet a shot of tequila in the same glass might be a standard 1.48 ounces if measured with a jigger.
If you want to know to answer the how many ounces in a shot glass question, it depends on multiple factors. If you’re thinking about mixing cocktails and other drinks at home, buy a jigger and choose shot glasses that suit your personal style. At Custom Shot Glass Now, you can buy just about any type of shot glass displaying any design you can think of.
For bar owners and restaurateurs, there’s the option to buy in bulk. Get the name of your bar printed onto a frosted glass or etched to create a unique keepsake for visiting drinkers. Solid color, frosted, or transparent shot glasses are all available and fully customizable with just a few clicks. See the full range available on the website or get in touch by phone at 1-866-251-4556.
