Godinger Cigar Whiskey Glass review

Would this single glass really change the way I enjoy whiskey and a cigar at the same time?

Product Overview

I tested the “Godinger Gifts for Men, Cigar Whiskey Glass, Old Fashioned Whiskey Glasses With Indented Cigar Rest, Gifts for Dad” to see whether it lives up to its promises. The concept is simple but clever: a double old fashioned whiskey glass that includes an indented rest for a cigar, made from handmade lead-free crystal with a 12 oz capacity. Godinger has been making handcrafted silver, pewter, crystal, stainless, and alternative metal giftware since 1973, and this piece is one of their modern barware offerings designed for cigar and whiskey lovers.

I appreciated that the product description highlights a patented round shape intended to make holding the glass comfortable while supporting a cigar. That combination—form and function—was the main reason I wanted to spend time with this glass and see how it performs in real use. I’ll walk through the details of design, performance, cleaning, and whether I’d recommend it as a gift or for my own bar.

What I Like About It

I like that the glass is thoughtfully designed specifically for the combined ritual of sipping whiskey and resting a cigar. The indented cigar rest is integrated rather than an add-on, which makes the whole thing feel intentional and elegant.

I also like the material: handmade lead-free crystal gives it a weight and clarity that feels premium without introducing lead concerns. The 12 oz capacity is practical for a generous pour or a well-made cocktail.

What I Don’t Like

I have to admit there are trade-offs. The indented rest limits the use of the glass for some cocktail presentations where a garnish or stirrer might occupy the rim space—so it’s not a universal glass for every drink.

Another minor issue for me was that while the glass is heavy and satisfying, its weight can make it less comfortable for long, casual sessions if you prefer very lightweight tumblers. That’s a personal preference rather than a flaw.

Design and Aesthetics

The first thing I noticed was how the patented round shape lends a modern, sophisticated look to the glass. It’s not trying to be an old-fashioned reproduction; it’s a contemporary take that still honors tradition.

The crystal clarity and the subtle curvature feel like they were designed for both visual appeal and tactile pleasure. It sits well on a coaster and looks good on display, which matters when a glass is meant to be a gift.

Shape and Size

The patented round shape is comfortable to hold and visually distinctive, offering a slightly bulbous body that tapers toward the rim. That shape makes it easy to cradle in the palm and sip from without feeling awkward.

At 12 oz, the capacity is generous for a neat pour, an ample whiskey-on-the-rocks serve, or a classic cocktail like an old fashioned. I found that I could fit one standard large ice cube or a couple of smaller cubes along with a 2- to 3-oz spirit without worrying about overflow.

Material and Craftsmanship

Godinger’s use of handmade lead-free crystal gives the glass a weighted feel and a clear brilliance that plastic or cheaper glassware can’t match. I appreciated the subtle, fine finish on the rim and the lack of visible seams, which indicates attention to detail in manufacturing.

Since Godinger has been producing giftware since 1973, I expected a certain level of craftsmanship and the glass didn’t disappoint. The cut and polish reinforced the sense that this is a product intended for gifting and display as much as daily use.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Comfort matters because a glass should feel right in my hand for the time it takes me to enjoy a drink. This glass’s round shape and balanced base made it easy to hold without feeling top-heavy.

Ergonomically, the weight distribution and the rim shape encouraged slower sipping, which I like: the design naturally slows down how fast I drink, which helps with savoring the experience rather than rushing through it.

Handling with a Cigar

When I rested a cigar in the indentation, the fit felt secure and natural. I liked that the indentation positioned the cigar at an angle that made it easy to pick the cigar back up without knocking the glass or losing balance.

The integrated rest held the cigar firmly enough for brief pauses between puffs, and it was simple to set a cigar down for a moment while adjusting music or conversation. I didn’t feel nervous about the cigar rolling or falling off the rim.

Handling Without a Cigar

When I used the glass without a cigar, it still felt comfortable and balanced. The indentation isn’t overly obtrusive, and the overall profile remains pleasant to hold for a variety of drinks.

If you’re someone who alternates between cigar sessions and cigar-free sipping, the glass transitions smoothly. It still looks like a quality tumbler even when the rest is unoccupied.

Performance with Different Drinks

I tested the glass with a few drink types to see if it really functions as an everyday piece or is more specialized. It performed admirably with neat spirits and classic cocktails alike.

The crystal thickness and mouthfeel of the rim contribute to the drinking experience, delivering a satisfying weight and a clean finish on every sip.

Whiskey and Neat Spirits

For neat whiskey, bourbon, rye, or single malt scotch, this glass feels right-sized. The 12 oz capacity gave me enough room to swirl gently to open aromas without worrying about spillage.

The shape helps concentrate aromas toward the nose while still allowing enough surface area for the spirit to breathe. I noticed that nosing the whiskey felt natural: I could rest my hand on the glass and bring it to my nose without awkward maneuvering.

Cocktails (Old Fashioned)

As an old fashioned glass, it’s well-suited to muddling sugar and bitters or serving a stirred cocktail over ice. The indentation doesn’t interfere with a short muddler, and you can still garnish with a citrus twist.

Because it’s slightly larger than some traditional old fashioned glasses, you have more room to balance mixers, ice, and garnish. If you like a bolder, more generous cocktail portion, this glass accommodates that preference.

Other Uses (Water, Soda)

I used the glass for non-alcoholic drinks too—water and soda—and it functioned perfectly well. The crystal gives even simple beverages a bit of ceremony, which I enjoy when I want elevating everyday moments.

The weighting of the glass makes even a glass of water feel more intentional and less disposable, so if you like having a single set of versatile barware that covers everything from whiskey to water, this can fit that role.

Cigar Rest Functionality

The indented cigar rest is the heart of the product’s unique proposition, and I wanted to assess whether it was a gimmick or genuinely useful. For me, it leaned toward genuinely useful: it’s thoughtfully recessed and shaped to hold a range of common cigar ring gauges.

The rest is integrated in a way that avoids damage to the cigar wrapper and keeps ash off the table when you need to set the cigar down briefly.

Stability and Fit

A key test for the indentation is whether it keeps the cigar stable while remaining easy to extract. I found the balance to be good: the cigar sat securely but did not require forceful removal.

The resting angle maintained a comfortable orientation for the cigar relative to the glass, making it easy to pick the cigar back up at a natural angle for puffing. It’s a small design detail that made a noticeable difference in convenience.

Cleanliness and Maintenance

Because the rest is part of the rim rather than a separate attachment, cleaning is straightforward. Ash and oils from the cigar can be wiped away with a damp cloth or washed clean in the sink.

If you’re meticulous, you’ll want to rinse the indentation promptly after use to avoid any lingering odor or residue. The crystal does a decent job resisting staining or holdover aromas if cleaned quickly.

Durability and Care

I was mindful of long-term durability since crystal can be more delicate than thick glassware. The construction feels solid enough for normal, careful use, but I’d treat it more gently than a heavy-duty bar glass.

In my hands-on time, the glass resisted minor nicks and showed no chipping, but like any crystal piece, I wouldn’t recommend dropping it or stacking it carelessly.

Dishwasher Safety and Cleaning

The product is generally dishwasher safe, but because it’s handmade crystal, I prefer handwashing to preserve clarity and avoid accidental chipping over many cycles. I found warm water, mild detergent, and a soft cloth or sponge to be the safest method.

If you use a dishwasher, choose a gentle cycle and avoid overcrowding. Drying by hand prevents water spots and helps retain that brilliant finish over time.

Longevity and Repairability

Crystal like this tends to last if it’s treated well, and I expect the glass to remain serviceable for years if handwashed and stored carefully. Repair for crystal is limited—chips are not easily fixed—so prevention is better than cure.

Because Godinger has a reputation for quality giftware, I’d be comfortable stocking this for long-term use in a home bar so long as I handled it with reasonable care.

Giftability and Packaging

The product is positioned as a gift item—indeed its full name implies “Gifts for Men” and “Gifts for Dad.” As a gift, it hits a lot of right notes: purposeful design, premium materials, and a clear target audience.

I think presentation matters for gifts, and while I didn’t always find extravagant packaging, the glass itself is gift-ready thanks to its visual appeal and clear value proposition.

Who I Would Buy This For

I’d buy this for any friend or family member who enjoys both cigars and whiskey, whether they are a casual aficionado or someone who likes to make evenings feel ritualistic. It’s especially fitting for someone who values presentation and enjoys pieces that are both functional and decorative.

It also suits someone who appreciates artisanal craftsmanship—someone who notices the weight, clarity, and finish of a good crystal glass.

Occasion Suitability

Birthdays, Father’s Day, anniversaries, or retirement celebrations are all appropriate occasions for this gift. It’s particularly nice as a “special” present rather than a casual token, because the crystal and design communicate thoughtfulness.

If you want a memorable gift for a milestone event, this glass conveys a sense of occasion and sophistication.

Value for Money

Price perception varies by market and expectations, but I judged the glass to be reasonably priced given its handmade crystal construction and integrated design. You’re not just buying a tumbler—you’re buying an object that combines two functions into one elegant piece.

If you’re looking for a bespoke or ultra-luxury glass, you’ll pay more, but for a quality, practical, and attractive gift or addition to your bar, this strikes a good balance.

Price vs. Quality

Comparing the cost to the craftsmanship, I felt the glass offers a positive price-to-quality ratio. The lead-free crystal and patented design add value relative to a plain glass of similar size.

If price is the only concern and you don’t care about integrated features, cheaper options exist, but they won’t give you the same presence or convenience.

Alternatives to Consider

There are alternatives: traditional old fashioned glasses, specialty cigar rests that clip to rims, or dual-piece sets that include separate ashtray-style rests. Each has trade-offs in portability, elegance, and convenience.

If you want absolute minimalism, a simple tumbler will do. If you want modular flexibility, separate cigar rests and glasses offer more options. But for one-piece convenience and aesthetic, this Godinger piece stands out.

My Unboxing Experience

When I first opened the packaging, I appreciated the care taken to protect the glass. The padding and form-fitting box reduced the worry of transit damage, and the initial visual impression was strong: the crystal gleamed and the shape was distinct.

Unboxing felt like opening a thoughtful gift rather than an ordinary purchase, which matters if you’re giving this to someone special or adding it to a display shelf.

First Pour and First Cigar Session

For my first use I poured a 2-oz measure of bourbon over a single large ice cube and paired it with a medium-bodied cigar. The glass handled both with ease: the cigar rested naturally and the bourbon presented aromas nicely.

That first session confirmed the promise of the design—the integrated rest is more than a gimmick, and the glass makes the pairing feel ritualistic in a good way.

Comparison to Other Whiskey Glasses

Putting this glass next to a traditional tumbler and a specialty cigar glass highlighted its balance of features. It’s more purposeful than a plain tumbler yet less bulky than some dedicated cigar holders.

Where it excels is in being a single, elegant item that covers both bases without looking awkward in either role.

Vs Traditional Old Fashioned Glass

Compared to a classic old fashioned glass, the Godinger piece is slightly more modern and tends to be a bit larger. Traditional glasses are often squat and wide; this glass has a rounder profile that feels contemporary.

Both work for cocktails, but if you like the look and tradition of a classic old fashioned, the Godinger glass offers a fresh alternative that still respects cocktail conventions.

Vs Specialized Cigar Glasses

Specialized cigar glasses that include ashtrays or roped rests can be bulkier and more utilitarian. The Godinger glass is sleeker and more refined, sacrificing the ash-collecting feature in favor of a cleaner silhouette.

If you want a discreet, elegant accompaniment rather than a full ashtray, the Godinger option is a stylish compromise.

Pros and Cons Summary

I always find it helpful to summarize the key strengths and weaknesses so I can decide quickly whether something is right for me or someone I’m shopping for. Here are the main takeaways from my time with the glass.

Pros:

• Integrated cigar rest makes pairing convenient and natural.
• Handmade lead-free crystal offers clarity and a premium feel.
• Patented round shape is comfortable to hold and visually distinct.
• Generous 12 oz capacity works for spirits and cocktails.
• Attractive gift option for cigar and whiskey enthusiasts.

Cons:

• Indentation reduces rim space for certain garnishes or tools.
• Heavier than some tumblers, which could be a downside for longer sessions.
• Crystal requires careful washing and handling to avoid chips.
• Not an ashtray substitute; you’ll still need a proper ash receptacle for longer cigar sessions.

Technical Specifications (Quick Reference Table)

Feature	Detail
Product Name	Godinger Gifts for Men, Cigar Whiskey Glass, Old Fashioned Whiskey Glasses With Indented Cigar Rest, Gifts for Dad
Material	Handmade lead-free crystal
Capacity	12 oz
Shape	Patented round shape with integrated cigar rest
Manufacturer	Godinger (since 1973)
Intended Use	Whiskey, old fashioned cocktails, cigar rest integrated
Dishwasher Safe	Generally yes, but handwashing recommended
Ideal For	Cigar and whiskey lovers, gifts for men or dads, home barware

I like having the table handy for quick comparison when I’m considering buying or gifting this piece.

Care Tips I Followed

I’ve picked up a few practical cleaning and care tips after using the glass. I recommend rinsing immediately after use and handwashing with warm, not hot, water and a gentle detergent.

Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could scratch the crystal, and dry with a soft lint-free cloth to avoid water spots. Store the glass upright and avoid stacking to reduce the risk of chips.

Real-World Use Cases I Encountered

I used this glass during a small gathering and in quieter solo sessions. It performed well in both contexts: on the table among other barware during the gathering it looked distinguished, and in private it helped make the ritual of a single dram and a cigar feel like an event.

I found it especially useful when socializing with a single friend who also enjoys cigars; passing the glass back and forth didn’t feel awkward because the design is inherently social—there’s a shared practicality to it.

Packaging and Presentation Notes

The packaging was protective and tasteful, which makes it a good candidate for gifting. If you care about presentation, pairing the glass with a small box of cigars or a quality bottle of whiskey can make the gift feel complete.

Godinger’s reputation for giftware shows in how the product arrives: presentable straight from the box with a little polish.

Who Should Buy This (Short Guide)

I recommend this glass if you:

• Regularly enjoy both cigars and whiskey and value convenience.
• Want a gift that reads as premium without entering ultra-luxury price territory.
• Prefer crafted, thoughtful barware that doubles as décor.
• Appreciate lead-free crystal and a solid feel in the hand.

I would not recommend this glass if:

• You need an all-purpose barware set for every type of cocktail garnish and stirrer.
• You prefer ultra-lightweight glasses for long conversational sessions.
• You frequently need a built-in ashtray or receptacle for heavy cigar use.

Final Verdict

After spending time with the “Godinger Gifts for Men, Cigar Whiskey Glass, Old Fashioned Whiskey Glasses With Indented Cigar Rest, Gifts for Dad,” I can confidently say it’s a smart and attractive choice for the right person. The integrated cigar rest genuinely adds convenience without undermining the glass’s core function as a whiskey tumbler.

I found it a satisfying piece to use and display, and I’d recommend it as a gift for a cigar-and-whiskey enthusiast or as a single, elegant addition to my own home bar. With sensible care, it offers a balance of style, utility, and charm that makes sipping and resting feel intentional and—most importantly—enjoyable.

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