So you want to get into cocktails but don’t know where to start. That’s because it is a diverse interest. There are all kinds of mixed drinks including strong, simple cocktails and sweet refreshing ones. Whatever you’re into, there is a cocktail for you. If you don’t like the taste of alcohol, no problem. Just because you are drinking alcohol doesn’t mean that you have to drink something strong. Below are five ways to make cocktails that will satisfy anyone.
Stirred
A stirred cocktail is the most common. This is when you combine ingredients and stir it up before serving it on nice. Pretty much any drink can be stirred, but they are typically made with less ingredients than other methods of making drinks. A coke and whiskey would be an example of a drink that is “stirred.” You might not even need to stir it. Basic well cocktails are usually stirred, but you can also get a martini and other classic and fancy cocktails stirred as well. A negroni is a simple, high-end, and classic cocktail that is mixed before being poured over ice.
Shaken
Shaken cocktails are another way to make an alcoholic beverage. The method is used when you want to produce some form of froth for the drink. Cocktails with egg whites are typically shaken. You can also shake a beverage to mix it better, but the point of shaking is to put air into the liquid, creating a bigger body and smoother taste. It is probably the most sought-after way to drink a cocktail if you are a purist. There’s no wonder why the joke is “shaken, not stirred.” Next time you’re at a bar, ask them for a good shaken drink and you will be able to tell the difference.
Blended
Another popular way to drink cocktails is the blended drink. Typically blended by a machine in large batches, you can also blend drinks to order. A blended margarita is very popular. A piňa colada is another. Blended cocktails are enjoyed best in hot, tropical environments where you want something to cool you down. Since they are blended with ice, these cocktails aren’t typically as strong as shaken and stirred cocktails but they are drunk mainly for the taste. A combination between a cocktail and a shake, blended beverages are beloved by many.
Frozen
Instead of adding ice and blending a drink, you can simply make the cocktail and freeze it. You don’t even have to do the work yourself. Alcohol pops are sold by all kinds of liquor makers. You don’t have to skimp on the quality of your frozen cocktails. They are a great treat on a hot day when you want to catch a buzz and cool off at the same time. The canned cocktail is getting popular, and many of these companies also make a frozen treat with some of your favorite cocktails. With a wide variety of flavors, the sky’s the limit when it comes to frozen alcohol treats.
On Tap
Finally, cocktails can even be served on tap. Whether they’re mixed beforehand or through the tap, using this method also allows the mixologist to include Co2 or Nitrogen to the beverage, creating a whole new dimension of body and flavor. Bourbon and other whiskey drinks are served on tap sometimes, even straight from a barrel. Cocktails on tap are an interesting way to serve drinks because it provides a creative element to base the cocktail on. Next time you see a cocktail on tap, give it a try.
However you like your drinks, these five methods provide many ways to find your style. Whether you like sweet, strong, sour, on ice, blended, or frozen, the world of alcoholic beverages is larger than ever before. There are more options and different drinks to satisfy any palate.
Do you want to get into cocktails but don’t know where to start? If you’re a simple beer or wine person and want to branch out, the sky’s the limit. There is no end to the combinations of flavors, temperatures, styles, garnishes, and more. Think about what you like and try a cocktail based on that. You will be able to find your drink and method of creation in no time.
