Cocktail mixology tends to refer to the craft of creating cocktails and drinks. These cocktails are often aesthetically pleasing, flavourful, unique and interesting. Cocktail mixology is a skill that requires practice, patience and experimentation to perfect.
Today, we’ll be taking a look at some of the key aspects of cocktail mixology, along with answering a few frequently asked questions surrounding the topic.
What is the mixology of cocktails?
A cocktail mixologist is someone that specialises in the art of creating cocktails and drinks. While a bartender may prepare common drinks from a set menu, a mixologist will often be responsible for creating innovative, new cocktails.
To create such beverages they must have a deep understanding of flavour profiles, ingredients and mixing techniques. This knowledge is usually acquired through experience, education and a passion for the craft.
Some of the basics of cocktail mixology include understanding flavour combinations, learning about different types of spirits and liqueurs, using professional bar tools such as shakers, strainers and jiggers, mastering the art of muddling and layering ingredients, knowing how to present each drink, as well as understanding techniques such as stirring and shaking.
Mixology involves taking ingredients from various sources and combining them in such a way that it results in a balanced cocktail with an enjoyable flavour experience.
What is the golden rule of mixology?
The golden rule of mixology often refers to the recipe formula for crafting a wide range of cocktails. This formula involves mixing two parts liquor with three parts spirit and one part citrus. This method is a great starting point for mixologists and it can be altered to create more unique drinks.
Sometimes also referred to as the golden ratio, it can also be represented as two parts spirit, one part sweet, and one part sour.
It’s also important to remember that the golden rule of mixology is only meant to serve as a basic guideline. There are no hard and fast rules when creating cocktails so experimentation and creative thinking are encouraged.
What are the 6 foundational cocktails?
The six foundational cocktails are commonly listed as:
- Daiquiri
- Martini
- Sidecar
- Flip
- Whiskey Highball
- Old Fashioned
These are the “root” cocktails from which many other drinks can be made. Once you’ve mastered these six recipes and understand their composition, you can then easily go on and explore the possibilities of creating your own cocktail creations.
Attending a cocktail mixology class
One great way to expand your knowledge of cocktails and mixology is to attend a cocktail mixology class. Mixology cocktail classes offer an opportunity to expand your knowledge and learn from industry experts, while also meeting like minded people.
Express Online Training has partnered with Streamline Training to offer a Cocktail Mixology Skills Course to those interested in furthering their skills. This class is offered in either an online setting or face-to-face from a Sydney CBD classroom, and is fantastic for those interested in learning how to make beginner cocktails.
During this half day course, attendees will learn how to make at least three classic cocktails, while also being shown additional theoretical cocktail demonstrations. This course also teaches students how to set up a professional cocktail bartending station or “mise en place”.
This course has no quizzes or formal assessments, instead, instructors will simply do their best to help you obtain the relevant skills and knowledge without any additional pressure. Upon completion of the course, students will be issued with a digital certificate of completion.
Cocktail mixology is a rewarding craft that requires passion, dedication, patience and perseverance to master. It also helps to have a basic understanding of flavour profiles, ingredients and mixing techniques.
Attending a cocktail mixology class can be a great way to begin your cocktail mixology journey and learn from industry experts. Streamline Training offers a cocktail mixology course that is ideal for beginners and those interested in furthering their skills.
With the right guidance, practice and dedication, you’ll be confidently creating your own incredible cocktails in no time!
