French Connection

Mastering Basic Drink Making Techniques

Introduction

Crafting the perfect drink requires more than just pouring ingredients into a glass. Professional bartenders use a variety of techniques to elevate the drinking experience. In this guide, we explore the essential methods used by experts to create exquisite beverages.

Shaking

When a recipe calls for ingredients like eggs, fruit juices, or cream, shaking is necessary. Fill a cocktail shaker three-quarters full with ice cubes and shake vigorously with two hands. Once condensation forms on the shaker's surface, the cocktail is chilled and ready to be strained.

Straining

Ensure a smooth pour by using built-in strainers in cocktail shakers. Avoid using crushed ice, as it can clog the strainer. If a drink needs to be shaken with crushed ice, skip straining and serve it unstrained.

Stirring

Stir cocktails with a metal or glass rod in a mixing glass to maintain their integrity. Use ice cubes to prevent dilution and strain the contents into a glass when condensation forms.

Muddling

To extract maximum flavor from ingredients like fruit or mint, muddle them with a muddler or pestle. Crushing these ingredients releases their essence, enhancing the drink's taste.

Blending

For ingredients that don't mix well with shaking, like fruits, use an electric blender. Blending creates a smooth, consistent mixture that's ready to serve.

Building

When pouring individual ingredients into a glass and layering them on top of each other, a swizzle stick can help mix them. Building allows for a visually appealing presentation of the cocktail.

Layering

Create visually stunning drinks by layering ingredients with varying weights. Use a spoon's rounded edge to carefully pour each ingredient on top of the other. Heavier liqueurs should go in first, allowing lighter ingredients to float on top.

Flaming

Flaming a drink involves setting it alight to enhance its flavor. Approach this technique with caution, taking safety measures to avoid accidents. Use higher proof liquors for easier ignition and always extinguish the flame before consuming the drink.

Higher proof liquors will ignite easier than lower proof liquors. Flaming a small amount of liquor in a spoon will cause the alcohol to collect at the top. You can then pour this over the prepared ingredients. Don't add alcohol to ignited drinks, the flame can get out of control. Always light liquor where they pose no danger to anybody else, and ensure no objects can possibly come into contact with any flames. Always extinguish a flaming drink before consuming it.