"A GUIDE TO COCKTAIL MAKING - CLASSIC DRINKS AND VARIATIONS": DE MODE GLOBAL
- DE MODE
- Jul 24, 2023
- 4 min read
ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE
Article Published on: 24TH JULY 2023 | www.demodemagazine.com
Cocktails are the embodiment of art and creativity in the world of mixology. Combining various spirits, liqueurs, fresh juices, and syrups, cocktails offer a delightful array of flavors and aesthetics. Whether you're a seasoned bartender or a home enthusiast, mastering the art of cocktail making can be a rewarding and enjoyable endeavor. In this guide, we explore classic cocktail recipes, the essential tools and techniques needed for cocktail making, and some popular variations to put your own twist on traditional favorites.
Essential Tools for Cocktail Making
Before delving into the recipes, let's first gather the essential tools required for creating delicious cocktails: a. Shaker: A cocktail shaker is a must-have tool for mixing ingredients, particularly those containing juices or syrups. The two primary types of shakers are the Boston shaker (a two-piece shaker consisting of a metal tin and a mixing glass) and the Cobbler shaker (a three-piece shaker with a built-in strainer). b. Jigger: A jigger is a measuring tool used to ensure precise and consistent measurements of spirits and other ingredients. It typically has two sides, one for one-ounce measurements and the other for half-ounce measurements. c. Muddler: A muddler is used to crush fruits, herbs, or sugar in the bottom of a glass to release their flavors. It is essential for cocktails like Mojitos and Old Fashioneds. d. Mixing Glass: A mixing glass is used for stirring cocktails with clear or translucent ingredients to maintain their clarity. e. Bar Spoon: A long, slender spoon used for stirring cocktails, reaching the bottom of tall glasses with ease. f. Strainer: A strainer is used to strain cocktails when transferring them from the shaker or mixing glass to the serving glass, keeping ice and large particles out. g. Citrus Juicer: Freshly squeezed citrus juice is vital for many cocktails, so having a citrus juicer on hand is essential.
Classic Cocktail Recipes
Now that we have our tools ready, let's explore some classic cocktail recipes that have stood the test of time: a. Martini:
2 1/2 oz Gin or Vodka (depending on preference)
1/2 oz Dry Vermouth
Ice
Lemon twist or Olive for garnish
Method: Add gin or vodka and dry vermouth to a mixing glass with ice. Stir until chilled, then strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist or olive. b. Old Fashioned:
2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
1 Sugar Cube or 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters
Orange slice and Maraschino Cherry for garnish
Method: In an old-fashioned glass, muddle the sugar cube (or use simple syrup) with the bitters and a splash of water. Add the bourbon or rye and stir until well combined. Fill the glass with ice and garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry. c. Negroni:
1 oz Gin
1 oz Campari
1 oz Sweet Vermouth
Orange peel for garnish
Method: Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well chilled, then strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange peel. d. Margarita:
2 oz Tequila
1 oz Triple Sec or Cointreau
1 oz Fresh Lime Juice
Salt for rimming the glass
Lime wedge for garnish
Method: Rim a rocks glass with salt (optional). In a shaker with ice, combine tequila, triple sec, and lime juice. Shake well, then strain into the prepared glass over ice. Garnish with a lime wedge. e. Mojito:
2 oz White Rum
1 oz Fresh Lime Juice
1 oz Simple Syrup
Fresh Mint Leaves
Soda Water
Lime slice and mint sprig for garnish
Method: In a tall glass, muddle the fresh mint leaves with the lime juice and simple syrup. Add the rum and fill the glass with ice. Top with soda water and stir gently. Garnish with a lime slice and a sprig of mint.
Variations and Modern Twists
Part of the joy of cocktail making is experimenting with variations and adding your creative twist to classic recipes. Here are some popular variations to inspire your mixology journey: a. Espresso Martini:
2 oz Vodka
1 oz Coffee Liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
1 oz Freshly Brewed Espresso
1/2 oz Simple Syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
Coffee beans for garnish
Method: Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with coffee beans. b. Aperol Spritz:
2 oz Aperol
3 oz Prosecco
Splash of Soda Water
Orange slice for garnish
Method: Fill a wine glass with ice. Add Aperol and Prosecco, then top with a splash of soda water. Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice. c. French 75:
2 oz Gin
3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
1/2 oz Simple Syrup
2 oz Champagne or Sparkling Wine
Lemon twist for garnish
Method: In a shaker with ice, combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Shake well and strain into a champagne flute. Top with champagne or sparkling wine and garnish with a lemon twist. d. Watermelon Basil Margarita:
2 oz Tequila
1 oz Triple Sec or Cointreau
1 oz Fresh Lime Juice
1 oz Watermelon Juice
2-3 Fresh Basil Leaves
Watermelon wedge and basil sprig for garnish
Method: In a shaker with ice, muddle the fresh basil leaves. Add tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and watermelon juice. Shake well and strain into a salt-rimmed rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a watermelon wedge and a sprig of basil.
Tips for Cocktail Making
To elevate your cocktail-making skills, consider these tips: a. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed juices and high-quality spirits can make a significant difference in the taste and quality of your cocktails. b. Balance Flavors: Cocktails are all about finding the perfect balance of flavors. Experiment with the ratios of ingredients to achieve the desired taste profile. c. Properly Chill and Dilute: Ensure your cocktails are properly chilled and diluted by using the right amount of ice and following the correct shaking or stirring techniques. d. Presentation Matters: Garnishes, glassware, and presentation can elevate the overall experience of a cocktail. Pay attention to the details to create visually appealing drinks. e. Be Adventurous: Don't be afraid to experiment with new ingredients and combinations. Some of the best cocktails have been born from creative experimentation.
Conclusion Cocktail making is an exciting and rewarding journey that allows you to unleash your creativity while delighting yourself and others with delicious libations. Armed with the essential tools and classic recipes, you can confidently step behind the bar and master the art of mixology. Don't forget to explore variations and put your own twist on traditional favorites, making every cocktail experience uniquely yours. Cheers to the world of cocktails - a blend of flavors, colors, and endless possibilities that brings joy and celebration to every occasion!