10 Mixology Misconceptions Everyone Believes But Is Totally Wrong
Hey there, cocktail lovers! Mixology is often seen as a complex and intimidating art, but it doesn't have to be. Whether you're a bibulous person who loves to experiment with different liquors, or you're simply curious about what goes into making a great cocktail, read on!
We'll dispel some myths and a few things that everyone seems to get wrong. So let's set the record straight on some of the most common mixology misconceptions!
1. The Need for Expensive Tools
One of the biggest mixology misconceptions is that you need many expensive tools to make great drinks. That isn't true! While it's nice to have some higher-end bar tools, they're not necessary to create delicious cocktails and other beverages. A great decanter and some basic bar tools are all you need to get started.
Whether you're just getting into mixology or a seasoned bartender, giving yourself a decanter gift set is always a good idea. You can enjoy delicious drinks with ease and style without breaking the bank.
2. The Use of Pre-Made Mixes
There's nothing wrong with using pre-made mixes if that's what you prefer. But if you're looking to take your mixology to the next level, you should avoid them.
Pre-made mixes are full of artificial flavors and chemicals that can ruin the flavor of your drinks. So if you're serious about mixology, then steer clear of them and use only fresh ingredients.
3. Mixing Alcohol to Every Drink
You might think that mixology is all about mixing alcohol with every drink. But that's not always the case. Using the same techniques, you can actually make some great non-alcoholic drinks (or so-called mocktails).
You can still enjoy mixology if you're looking to cut down on your alcohol intake or just not in the mood for a boozy drink. Just try out some different recipes and see what you like best.
4. Demand to Use Fancy Glasses
Serving drinks in fancy glasses is always a great way to dress up your party. But it's not always a must. If you're just making drinks for yourself or a small group, there's no need to use elaborate glassware.
Basic glasses or a decanter will do the trick just fine. So don't feel like you have to go out and buy tons of new glasses to try out mixology. Instead, you can use what you already have and save yourself some money.
5. You Have to Be a Mixologist
It's not necessary to be a professional mixologist to make good drinks. Mixology is for everyone who enjoys making drinks and trying new things. There are no rules, and you can be creative.
You can also be the party's life with some great recipes and a little bit of creativity. So there's no need to be afraid to give mixology a try just because you don't consider yourself a mixologist.
6. Necessity to Know All the Recipes
While it's helpful to know some classic cocktail recipes, you don't need to know all of them. Knowing a few classic and fundamental recipes will give you a good foundation, but feel free to experiment and make up your own.
You can try looking up recipes online or in mixology books; if you're feeling stuck, use them as a starting point, and let your creativity run wild.
7. You Shouldn't Use Ice
Most of you think that using ice will water down your drinks and ruin them. However, using the right kind of ice can actually help enhance your drinks' flavor.
You can try switching to smaller ice cubes or crushed ice if you are using regular ice cubes. That way, your drink will stay cold without watering down the flavor.
8. Expensive Ingredients Should Always Be Used
There is nothing to deny that using high-quality ingredients makes your drinks taste better, but you don't have to spend more money if you're on a budget! There are plenty of inexpensive ingredients that will make your cocktails just as tasty and rich.
All you need is just enough of the good stuff to enhance the flavor of your drinks. So don't go overboard and spend too much money on ingredients.
9. The Requirement to Use Only High-End Liquors
Using top-shelf liquors is always a good idea, but it's not necessary. There's nothing wrong with using lower-end liquors if you're on a budget. The important thing is that you use quality ingredients and mix them well.
There's no need for you to spend a fortune to make great cocktails. You can find some great deals if you shop around. So don't be afraid to mix things up and use a variety of liquors in your drinks.
10. You Shouldn't Shake or Stir Too Much
As you can see from the movies, bartenders tend to be very passionate about their shaking and stirring techniques. But the truth is, shaking or stirring too much won't ruin your drink.
It can actually help make the drink's consistency smoother and the flavors more evenly distributed. Just remember that it does not apply to all cocktails.
Conclusion
There's no one-size-fits-all approach to mixology, but identifying misconceptions will help you understand the basics better. So now that you know the basics, what's stopping you from becoming a mixology master?
It might seem daunting at first, but with a bit of practice and some experimentation, you'll be able to make cocktails that will impress your friends and family (even yourself) in no time.
Do you have any other mixology myths or tips to share? Let us know in the comments below.
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