Clearly, the success of a cocktail depends on the quality of the spirits and ingredients used. But these aren’t the only factors behind its success! The entire production process, from the dosage of spirits and other juices to their delicate blending, requires the right instruments. To all mixology enthusiasts, we’ve put together a selection of essential accessories for making your own favorite cocktails.
1. A shaker
It’s hard to think of a cocktail without imagining a bartender shaking a shaker all over the place. But do you know what its role is? Simply put, it adds air. In fact, by creating movement and tapping the ice against the walls, air bubbles are created that bind all the ingredients together. This technique is particularly useful for cocktails with lemon juice or containing liquids of varying densities such as liqueur or milk and juice. With a shaker, it all blends together perfectly.
2. A mixing spoon
If James Bond orders his Dry Martini “shaken, not stirred”, there are many cocktails that prefer to be mixed delicately. That’s where the mixing spoon comes in. It is generally used in concoctions with a majority of spirits, with a little ice, to refresh without incorporating air. We preserve the nuances of the spirits, without ever rushing them, and give them a little more silkiness.
3. A jigger
The jigger is an hourglass-shaped measuring instrument. It therefore combines two containers with different volumes. More often than not, one is twice the size of the other. This ensures that you’re pouring the right quantities, because mixology is a precise discipline that leaves nothing to chance. And if you want to surprise your guests, don’t hesitate to hold it between your index and middle fingers, or middle and ring fingers. More fluid and efficient for measuring and pouring with a single hand gesture…like a seasoned bartender.
4. A pestle
The pestle, whether made of wood, stainless steel or plastic, is above all an extractor of flavors and aromas. Use it to vigorously crush fruit for juicing, aromatic plants and herbs, seeds… to get the best out of them. It is the mainstay of mojitos, grinding together lime, mint leaves and sugar, as well as caipirinhas and ti’punches.
Tip: it can also be used to crush ice cubes.
5. Garnishes
The finishing touch. In the age of elaborate, aesthetically pleasing cocktails, garnishes are all the rage. They enhance them through taste and visual appeal. Dehydrated fruit, zest, citrus slices, dried or undried flowers, more or less powerful spices… there’s something for everyone. A feast for the eyes and the taste buds.
