Equipping Like a Pro
The Essential Equipment for Every Mixologist
Creating exquisite cocktails is not just an art; it's also a matter of equipment. Every dedicated mixologist knows that a sturdy and spacious shaker is the centerpiece of their arsenal. But crafting the perfect cocktail requires much more. Here's a comprehensive guide for every mixology enthusiast looking to equip themselves like a professional.
At the top of the list is the cocktail strainer, followed by an effective muddler, a grater and zester. A blender for fruits, an ice maker, or crushed ice, sharp and high-quality knives, scissors, and tweezers complete this toolkit. Because every detail matters, including the precision brought by the tweezers for placing decorations on each glass.
The choice of the glass is not to be taken lightly. A respected mixologist knows which container will enhance a cocktail the most and what decorations to add for an unforgettable visual and gustatory experience.
However, being an expert in mixology is not just about having the right equipment. One must also master the art of crafting cocktails. A true mixologist must be familiar with the 16 types of cocktails:
- Cooler: Refreshing, with a low alcohol content, often fruity or sweet.
- Cup: Cold long drink based on beer or wine, enhanced with fruits or spices.
- Daisy: Short drink with lemon juice and eau-de-vie, crafted with a shaker.
- Eggnog: Traditional Christmas cocktail made with sugar, egg yolk, and cream or milk.
- Fizz: Acidic with lemon juice and carbonated water.
- Flip: Similar to Eggnog, without cream or milk.
- Highball: Alcohol elongated with water or soda, served over ice.
- Julep: Often contains fresh mint, with a base of wine, spirit, or liqueur.
- Long drink: Served in a large glass, refreshing with soda, juice, or sparkling water.
- Mixed drink: Prepared directly in a mixing glass.
- Mocktail: Non-alcoholic cocktail.
- Mull: Shared cocktail, made with hot wine or beer.
- Shooter: Consumed in one go, served in a shot glass.
- Short drink: Concentrated in alcohol, served in a small glass.
- Sling: Long drink served in a tumbler glass.
- Sour: All "short drinks" cocktails prepared in a shaker.