METHODS OF MIXING COCKTAILS

Cocktails made by these methods

Build
To build a drink means making it straight into the glass from which it will be drank. This will
include; neat drinks that are taken without mixer, layered drinks, spirits with mix, liquor coffees,
frappes and certain cocktails.
When pouring a drink with a mixer, it is correct to stir the drink for your customer using your bar-
spoon.
Drinks containing ice should be poured carefully over the ice already contained in the glass.
Always fill the glass with ice rather than just a few lumps unless customer requests different.
Always pour mixer last and stir

Stir
Certain cocktails require gentle stirring to chill before drinking. These drinks are usually
translucent and strong. Use a mixing glass, bars-spoon and strainer for stirred drinks.
Two thirds fill a mixing glass with ice and then strain the ice of any excess water before
adding ingredients. Stir gently using your bar-spoon so not to chip the ice which will cause
unnecessary dilution. Once drink is cold enough, strain into chilled glass using a bar
strainer (Hawthorne). Never stir sparkling ingredients such as carbonated mineral water or
champagne in the mixing glass. If stirred drink requires a sparkling ingredient, it should be
added after the drink has been poured.

Shake

Drinks that require agitation will need to be shaken using a cocktail shaker.
There are three types of cocktail shaker (See "Shakers").
Ingredients requiring shaking can be dairy products, juices or egg white. Shake vigorously until
drink is sufficiently chilled, before straining into a prepared glass. Never shake sparkling
ingredients such as carbonated mineral water or champagne. If shaken drink requires a sparkling
ingredient, it should be added after the drink has been poured.
Always pour mixer last and stir.

Blend

Many ingredients such as strawberries or banana may require pureeing, and therefore, will need to
be blended.
Use a blender with an industrial motor so it can cut through ice without any effort. The amount of
ice should be measured by the glass in which the drink will be poured and blended until completely
absorbed into the drink and not like a Slurpee. Always start blender on slowest speed and work up
gradually until all ingredients including ice is smooth. Serve unstrained into prepared glass.
Note: Never put your hand into the blender bowl whilst it is connected to power