Cocktailing can be as simple or involved as you want to make it. If you’ve ever wondered how bartenders at your favorite watering holes come up with some of the more unique combinations that end up on the menu, I’m about to let you in on a trade secret. Almost every single cocktail that you’ve ever seen on a signature drink menu is just a variation of a classic build.
Take a negroni for example. The classic build of a negroni is equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth and there are literally hundreds of combinations you can make with just simple swaps. Campari is simply a bitter liqueur, but it does have a very distinct flavor. Switching it out with an amaro or another bitter component will create an entirely different experience. Look at the boulevardier-it’s considered another classic, but it and the negroni are just spins off of each other. The boulevardier uses bourbon and amaro instead of gin and Campari and it is one of my favorite cocktails to sip on. Different amaros can offer different experiences here as well. Some are more smooth and on the lighter side, like Meletti, while some are darker and more bitter, like Fernet. Making a boulevardier with either of these options is going to result in a specific, unique profile.
The same type of swapping can be done with the sweet vermouth. All it is is the sweet component to balance out the bitter. Try using something like a sweet liqueur instead. One of my personal favorite builds is to use gin, Campari, and Framboise, which is a raspberry liqueur. It’s light and sweet without being syrupy and is the perfect party sipper. That said, you could just as easily do bourbon, a middle of the road amaro like Montenegro, and a blackberry liqueur if you wanted something more rich.
Remember what I said last week about building a matrix when planning out drinks? That mentality basically applies to almost every aspect of cocktailing. Everything is customizable, so customize it! Take those random bottles you have sitting in the cabinet you never open and just play around. Cocktailing and cocktail culture is supposed to be fun and enjoyable, and I think it’s really important to remember that. Don’t let the purists shame you out of trying new things-those people are boring. No offense to those of you that enjoy the classics, I do too, but let’s not yuck anyone else’s yum. Play around with your products and figure out what you like to drink. After all, you’re the one drinking it, so what you enjoy is really the only thing that matters.
As always, if you have questions, comments, or suggestions, send me an email at [email protected] and I will be happy to help! Also remember that in-person services are also something I offer, so if you would like help putting the final touches on your party plans, I am here as a resource for you. Have a wonderful weekend, stay safe and healthy, and remember your barstool is always open.
Cheers!
