Why Building a Cocktail is a Game-Changer

A bartender building a cocktail by combining ingredients directly in the glass

Introduction

Ever wondered why some bartenders simply pour ingredients directly into your glass instead of using shakers or mixers? This technique is called "building a cocktail," and it's a staple in mixology for good reason. In this article, you'll discover the advantages of building a cocktail and why it might become your favorite way to mix drinks at home.

Simplicity at Its Best

An array of cocktail ingredients alongside a glass being used to build a simple drink

Building a cocktail is as straightforward as it sounds. It's the method of assembling a drink by directly pouring each ingredient into the serving glass. Here's why it's a fantastic technique:

Quick and Easy: No need for fancy equipment or extra steps. Just grab your glass and ingredients, and you're ready to go.
Minimal Cleanup: Avoids the hassle of washing multiple tools like shakers or strainers.
Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for anyone new to cocktail making, as it reduces the margin for error.

Quick Tip: If you're hosting a party, building cocktails can save you time and effort, allowing you to enjoy your guests more.

Letting Flavors Shine

Close-up of a freshly built Old Fashioned cocktail in a glass, highlighting its natural ingredients

Building a cocktail allows the ingredients to naturally blend and develop over time. This method can elevate the drink's overall taste by highlighting the natural flavors:

Natural Blending: Ingredients gently mix, allowing each flavor to stand out yet complement one another.
Taste Enhancement: Helps maintain the integrity of delicate ingredients, like aromatic bitters or fresh herbs.

Fast Fact: Building is ideal for spirit-forward drinks like a classic Old Fashioned, where stirring or shaking is unnecessary.

Ideal for Certain Drinks

Certain cocktails shine brightest when built, thanks to their simple compositions:

Perfect for Carbonated Drinks: Cocktails that include soda or sparkling water retain their fizz better when built.
Layered Drinks: Easily create impressive layered visuals, like a tequila sunrise, without disturbing the colors.

How to Build a Refreshing Gin & Tonic:

50 ml of gin
150 ml of tonic water
Ice cubes
Lime wedge for garnish

Steps:

Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
Pour 50 ml of gin over the ice.
Top with 150 ml of tonic water.
Gently stir and garnish with a lime wedge.

A Quick Recap

Building cocktails are quick, easy, and beginner-friendly.
This technique highlights the natural flavors of ingredients.
Ideal for drinks that don't need vigorous mixing, like carbonated or layered cocktails.

Next time you're in the mood for a cocktail, try building it and enjoy the simple, yet flavorful rewards! Cheers!