Cocktail, Bartending and Distilling Terminology
In order to get along in the world of cocktails, one needs to know some of the lingo. Learning the most common bartending and distilling terminology is helpful to home bar enthusiasts, professional bartenders and lounge patrons alike.
Alcohol
A colorless, flammable liquid obtained by fermentation of sugars and starches.
Anti-Saloon League
Formed in 1893 in Oberlin, Ohio, it began as a state organization that was in favor of prohibition and soon became a strong influence in the United States.
Aperitif
A refreshing drink typically served before a meal to stimulate the appetite.
Back
A non-alcoholic drink such as water or a soft drink served in a separate glass alongside an alcoholic drink.
Blue Law
Laws that restrict the sales of certain goods, particularly alcohol, on Sunday.
Build
To pour ingredients directly into the serving glass.
Call Drink
To request a brand name liquor when ordering a drink.
Cocktail
A drink that combines one or more alcoholic beverages.
Cordial or Liqueur
Sweet distilled spirits with a base liquor, sugar and a variety of fruits, herbs and spices for flavor that varies greatly by type or brand.
Dash
The smallest bar measurement.
Digestif
A drink served after dinner to complete a meal.
Dry
Refers to the quantity of vermouth in a cocktail.
Float
To carefully pour a small amount of liquid over the back of a spoon to balance as the top layer of a drink.
Libation
A beverage containing alcohol or the act of pouring a liquid in sacrifice.
Liquor or Distilled Spirit
A beverage distilled from alcohol.
Mixed Drink
A drink that combines one or more alcoholic beverages.
Mixer
Any non-alcoholic beverage used as an ingredient in a cocktail.
Mixology or Mixologist
The art or skill of preparing mixed drinks.
Molecular Mixology
The practice of understanding and experimenting with cocktails on the scientific and molecular level to create new, interesting flavors, textures and visuals.
Muddle
Combining and mashing ingredients in the bottom of a glass using a muddler.
Neat
A drink served without ice or a mixer.
On the Rocks
Refers to a drink served over ice.
Parts
What happens when you come across one of the many cocktails that uses the term "parts" instead of direct measurements like ounces?
Prohibition Party
Formed in 1869 for American political candidates who were in favor of the prohibition of alcohol in the country.
Roll
Ingredients are poured from one glass into another and back again to mix.
Straight Up
A drink chilled in a cocktail shaker and strained.
Sweet and Sour Mix
A mixer of lemon, lime and sugar commonly used in mixing cocktails.