Which technique is commonly used for chilling cocktail glasses?

Rimming cocktail glasses with ice or cold water is a common technique used to chill them because it effectively lowers the temperature of the glass, enhancing the experience of the cocktail served in it. This method ensures that the drink remains cold longer once poured, which is especially important for cocktails that are meant to be refreshing and served chilled.

Using ice or cold water selectively surrounds the glass with temperature, helping to cool it quickly without altering its structural integrity. It allows bartenders to serve cocktails that stay at an optimal drinking temperature, providing a better sensory experience for the consumer as both the drink and glass are pleasantly cold.

Freezing the glass overnight could lead to brittle glass or unexpected breakage when pouring hot components or ice into it, while using warm water or heating glasses would not chill them and could instead create a negative experience by warming the cocktail.