Introduction, Cocktail and Mocktail, Measuring, Mixing methods, Cocktails:
Component, Principle of making cocktail, Popular cocktails and mocktail
recipes.
Short Important Questions
- Define percolation with example. (1 Mark, 2017)
- Define Mixology and mixed drink. (1 Mark, 2017)
- What are the four methods of making cocktail? (1 Mark, 2018)
Long Important Questions
- Explain the guidelines for developing a good recipe of cocktails. (5 Marks, 2023)
Introduction
Mixology is the art and science of mixing drinks, especially cocktails. It is a more advanced and refined form of bartending that focuses on understanding flavors, ingredients, and techniques.
| The word mixology was first recorded in 1948 and means “the art or skill of preparing mixed drinks.” |
A mixologist is a highly skilled bartender who studies the craft of drink making in depth. Unlike an ordinary bartender who focuses on serving quickly, a mixologist focuses on:
- Understanding spirits, liqueurs, syrups, bitters, and mixers
- Creating new and innovative cocktails
- Using herbs, spices, fruits, teas, and infused alcohols
- Experimenting with flavor balance and presentation
- Choosing correct glassware / accompaniments to enhance taste and appearance
A mixologist is often involved in:
- Designing cocktail menus
- Developing new drinks
- Training staff
- Product testing and drink research
| Mixology is the professional and creative study of cocktail making, and a mixologist is a specialist in blending drinks with skill, knowledge, and creativity. |
Mixed Drinks
Mixed drinks are beverages made by mixing two or more ingredients together. They may be alcoholic (cocktails) or non-alcoholic (mocktails). They include spirits, juices, syrups, bitters, cordials, sauces, soda, etc., blended to create a balanced and pleasant flavor.
Cocktail and Mocktail
A cocktail is a sophisticated mixed drink that historically required four elements: Spirit, Sugar, Water, and Bitters. In modern mixology, it is any alcoholic beverage consisting of a spirit (or spirits) mixed with other ingredients.
| A cocktail is an alcoholic mixed drink containing one base spirit and other ingredients like juices, syrups, liqueurs, bitters, etc but at least one ingredient must be alcohol. |
They can be taken:
- Before meals (aperitif)
- With meals
- After meals (digestif)
Examples: Bloody Mary, Pina Colada, Long Island Iced Tea
The alcoholic strength of cocktail generally high (usually 10% – 40% ABV).
Mocktails are non-alcoholic mixed drinks which are made using:
- Fruit juices
- Syrups
- Cream
- Ice-cream
- Soda, etc.
It’s alcoholic strength is Zero or negligible (under 0.5% ABV). They are enjoyed by all age groups and are popular at parties and functions.
Examples: Virgin Mary, Virgin Colada, Fruit Punch, Cinderella
Measuring
Measuring in bar ensures that every guest receives the same quality of drink, regardless of who is behind the bar.
| Term | Quantity (Fraction) | Metric Equivalent (ml) |
|---|---|---|
| Splash / Small Shot | ¼ oz | 7.5 ml |
| Half Shot | ½ oz | 15 ml |
| Standard Pour | ¾ oz | 22.5 ml |
| Full Shot | 1 oz | ≈ 30 ml |
| 1 Jigger | 1.5 oz | 45 ml |
| Double Shot | 2 oz | 60 ml |
| 1 cl (Centiliter) | – | 10 ml |
| 1 Dash | – | ≈ 1 ml |
| Miniature (Nip) | – | 50 ml |
| 1 Wineglass | – | 120 ml |