What is Mixology and How Do You Start With It?

You might have heard the word “mixology” before, but what does it actually mean? Mixology is a term that refers to the art and science of preparing mixed drinks. It has become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to bartenders who are looking for new ways to experiment with different flavors. So what’s the difference between a mixologist and a bartender? And can you be a mixologist at home? Read on to find out!

What is Mixology?

Mixology is defined as the art of preparing mixed drinks. When someone is skilled in mixology, they can combine spirits and other ingredients to create what’s known as a cocktail.

The Merriam-Webster dictionary dates “mixology” to 1872 and defines it as, “the art of mixing mixed drinks”. It defines “bartender” as “a person who serves drinks at a bar” and notes that the term was first documented in 1825. But in lots of cases, the two terms are used interchangeably.

The term “mixologist” became popular during Prohibition (1919-1933) when cocktails were popular. They needed a word that distinguished what they did from other bartenders who would serve only beer and wine. It also helped to hide what they were actually mixing!

What is molecular mixology?

The phrase “molecular mixology” is a slightly different approach to cocktail making in which food science concepts, such as molecular gastronomy, are used.

It is a relatively new approach to mixology and includes looking at things like the physical properties of ingredients, the ice, and the glass used and has a big focus on understanding the flavours involved.

Molecular mixology uses a range of substances such as powders, foams, gels, and atomized sprays.

Though they may not have been labeled as such in the past, layered cocktails are examples of molecular mixology, using ingredients with different densities and viscosity to create texture.

What is the difference between a mixologist and bartender?

Mixologists are typically more skilled in what they do, which means they’ll be able to make a wider range of drinks. They also tend to have better knowledge of what’s going on behind the scenes as well: what different spirits taste like or how flavours can change with certain ingredients.

However, bartenders usually have a wider range of knowledge because they’re more likely to serve beers and wines in addition to cocktails. And while mixologists may be able to make what looks like an elaborate cocktail at home compared with what you might find on the shelves of your local liquor store, most people don’t really need that level of expertise at home.

Can you be a mixologist at home?

There are many different ways that people can get involved with what is called “mixology” without having to open up their own bar or work as a bartender. One way would be by making your drinks at home, either for just yourself or in larger quantities using large batches of ingredients.

Another way is by making what are known as “mixers” (such as juice) or a signature drink. You can also get involved in the drinks world by hosting what’s called an open bar at your home, where you invite people over to have cocktails with appetizers but no bartender will be present.

Or simply just make a cocktail or two at home for yourself and a friend or partner. That way you can see how it all works and see if you want to learn some of the more technical sides of things or just stick with the basic two or three-ingredient drinks recipes.

What are the basics of the mixology toolkit?

You don’t need to have the most elaborate of items to make cocktails but you’ll soon find as you start to make drinks, that there are things you want to have handy and that make the job easier.

Cocktail book

Unless you have an amazing memory or only plan to make one or two drinks, then a good cocktail book is an essential element before you think about anything else. 

There are loads of recipes on the internet through this might mean printing them or trying to balance an iPad or smartphone while making the drinks – not an ideal proposition.  A good cocktail book lets you mark your places and if it gets a little damp, it dries out.

Jigger

The jigger (a term I hadn’t heard before I started making cocktails) is a simple measuring tool and comes in different sizes.  There are a few different options. Some have measures along the outside to get a specific quantity. The other is a one-shot/two-shot style which is ideal for making simple drinks that just want 25ml (1 shot) or 50ml (2 shots) in a drink.

I must admit I had always just used one of those little Pyrex measures as it has ounces, milliliters, and a few other measurements on it so no matter what the recipe uses, you are ready for it. But when I had one in a cocktail-making kit I was given, I could see its appeal.

Ice cube trays

Most cocktails use ice in one form or another so it is important to have a ready supply in the freezer for a cocktail evening.  Different size ice cubes can be handy for different size drinks and glasses too.

You can get fun-shaped ice cubes as well as ones that are semi-circular and very large. Having a couple of different ones can be a good idea depending on the size of the glass you need as to what’s the best one to use.

Muddler

If you are a fan of mojitos or other cocktails that add a bit of crushed fruit or herbs then the best way to get the oils from them without making too much of a mess is a muddler.  Citrus peel and herbs should be muddled gently while mint leaves and fruit can be given a bit more forcefulness.

You can get traditional wooden ones as well as metal ones with silicone ends that are a little softer. These are ideal if you are a bit heavy-handed so you don’t break your glass while muddling!

Juicer

Alongside the muddler, the other fruit preparation essential is a juicer.  There are plenty of variations but the theme is the same – an easy way to squeeze the juice from a piece of fruit while leaving the fleshy part of the fruit behind.  Put the cut side of the fruit into the holes of the juicer for the best result.

Plus a juicer is a handy tool to have around the kitchen for other jobs. If you want fresh fruit juices for a recipe, this is one of the easiest ways to get it.

Bar spoon

There’s the shaken then there’s the stirred and for the latter, a long bar spoon is needed.  Sometimes those ingredients want to be gently persuaded together rather than banged and bashed but for long glasses, a teaspoon won’t do the job – besides it just doesn’t look the part!

Shaker

There’s no real substitute for a shaker when it comes to combining ingredients perfectly plus there’s the style factor – can’t pretend to be Tom Cruise without one! Cocktail shakers come in a few different styles as well as some gorgeous-looking ones.

Aim for one that has a cap and a strainer for those cocktails where you need to strain before serving. Of course, if you don’t get one with that, a strainer is another bit of equipment that can help. So if there’s one you love without a strainer built in, go with it!

Pour spouts

This one may be more style than function but are inexpensive to buy and make pouring out of bottles a lot easier.  Less chance of those catastrophic moments when the alcohol misses the glass! It can be an idea to have a few of these around then you can use them with different drinks. It cuts down time spent constantly rinsing them and leaves more time for cocktail drinking.

Garnishes

Garnishes like lemon and lime may seem like a style elements but do actually add to the final flavour of the drink and so if it recommends in your cocktail book that you use them, then go with it.  Buy the right ingredients from the shop or even prepare your own for some of them to finish the drink perfectly.

Ingredients

So you have all your essentials, picked your recipes from your cocktail book, and prepared your ice and garnishes – what’s left to add?  Alcohol of course!! 

It is possible to set up a nice range of cocktails on a budget because there are plenty that uses the same few ingredients with different mixers and garnishes.  So start with your favourite base spirit, say whiskey or vodka, and see how many different drinks you can make with it. 

Mastering mixology at home

Mixology might sound like a fancy way to say ‘making cocktails’ and it is! But it is also a fun thing to be able to tell people what you can do. There’s not much you need to get started but you might find that you have a few extras you’ll want to add to your home bar once you get started!