Latest news with #mixology
Forbes
12 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
How To Choose The Right Gin For Every Kind Of Drink
Expert barman is making cocktail at night club. getty Gin is one of the most versatile spirits out there. It can be bracing and juniper-heavy, light and floral, or even rich and malty. But not all gin is created equal, and if you've ever wondered why one gin makes a great martini while another works better in a Tom Collins, it all comes down to style. To make sense of the gin world—and to help you avoid putting the wrong gin in the wrong cocktail—here's a practical guide to the different types of gin and where they shine. London Dry isn't necessarily made in London (though it can be). The term refers to a production style that results in a crisp, juniper-forward gin with no added sweeteners. This is the most common style of gin and the one you'll find in classics like Tanqueray, Beefeater, and Bombay Sapphire. Best for: London Dry is a workhorse. If you're building a home bar and can only have one gin, this is the one to start with. Plymouth Gin is actually a protected designation, meaning it can only be made in Plymouth, England. It's similar to London Dry but has a softer, earthier profile with less of a juniper punch. That makes it a great option for people who like gin but don't necessarily want it to dominate their drink. Best for: Think of Old Tom as the missing link between London Dry and Genever (which we'll get to in a second). It's slightly sweeter than London Dry, with a richer texture. If you ever find a gin cocktail from the 19th century that calls for 'gin,' chances are it was referring to Old Tom. Best for: Before gin was gin, it was Genever. This Dutch spirit is maltier and has a more whiskey-like character due to its grain-forward base. While it still has juniper, it's not as dominant as in other styles. Best for: If you love whiskey but are curious about gin, Genever is the perfect gateway bottle. Sometimes called 'contemporary gin' or 'modern gin,' this is a broad category for gins that step away from the traditional juniper-heavy profile. Brands like Hendrick's (with its cucumber and rose) or The Botanist (with its 22 botanicals) fall into this category. Best for: New Western gins are fun because they push the boundaries. They can be citrus-forward, floral, or even spice-heavy, making them great for experimentation. Take a gin, put it in a barrel, and suddenly, you've got something entirely different. Barrel-aged gin picks up flavors from the wood, adding warmth and depth. This style is great for people who like whiskey but want to try gin. Best for: Brands like Barr Hill Tom Cat and Citadelle Réserve have made this category more popular, and if you haven't tried it yet, it's worth exploring. Expert barman is making cocktail at night club. getty Here's the quick version: Gin is one of those spirits that rewards exploration. If you're a gin and tonic drinker, try switching up your gin to see how the flavors change. If you love martinis, experiment with different styles to find your favorite balance. And if you're not sure where to start, just grab a London Dry and go from there. It's hard to go wrong when the drink in your hand is crisp, refreshing, and packed with flavor.
Bloomberg
a day ago
- Business
- Bloomberg
China's Spiritual Economy Is Booming as Gen Z Turns to Tarot
At a dimly lit bar in Beijing, the rattle of wooden sticks used for fortune telling blends with the clink of cocktail glasses. Patrons here aren't just ordering drinks — they seek a glimpse into the future. These hybrid venues — where mixology meets mysticism — are cropping up across Chinese cities, offering drinks alongside tarot readings and other means of divining whatever is to come. It's part of a broader boom in what analysts are calling China's Xuanxue, or metaphysical, economy — an expanding sector that includes astrology, tarot and crystal healing.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Mixing business with pleasure: Pomeroy bartender serves special cocktails to G7 leaders
Now that the G7 Summit has ended, the head mixologist at Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge has a few stories to tell. Working closely with Global Affairs Canada, Graham Hart and his team created the G7 Global Cocktail Series, seven cocktails inspired by each G7 country, plus one non-alcoholic option and one for the group as a whole. 'I've never had the federal government weigh in on the ingredients I've used in a cocktail until now. Every ingredient had to be discussed,' says Hart, who began crafting the special menu for the hotel in September 2024. 'There's been a lot of pressure. But I like to say: no pressure, no diamonds. We had one opportunity to do something fantastic, so there's no point messing around.' The nod to Germany? A Berliner Sommer beer cocktail with raspberry and dill. France? La Fille en Rose, a floral martini. And Japan's special drink paid a nod to kintsugi, the Japanese idea of embracing imperfections by repairing broken pottery. Hart hand-cracked and carved ice spears, then put the cubes back together with 24-karat gold to serve to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. 'He just looked and me and said, 'You know what kintsugi is?' Hart says. 'I do. It's about finding strength and beauty in things that are broken.' Served as part of the offerings to the G7 delegates, the cocktails weren't the only drinks imbibed by the world leaders this past week. It turns out that French President Emmanuel Macron is a big scotch fan — in particular, Lagavulin. Hart poured him a rare Lagavulin 12-year-old Fireside Tales, and Macron liked it so much, his delegation came over to take photos and to ask where they could buy more. 'Macron requested the moustache guy — that's me. I had a big white cowboy hat on and a white shirt. I looked a little like Yosemite Sam,' Hart said with a laugh. During the week, Hart served British Prime Minister Keir Starmer a wheat ale from Bragg Creek's Cowboy Trail Brewery. And European Council President Antonio da Costa tried the Canadian Club Chronicles' 45-year-old whisky. On Sunday evening, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney hosted a dinner where Hart served Grizzly Paw Brewing Company's Highway 40 Pale Ale, alongside Establishment Brewing Company's Afternoon Delight Hazy IPA beer from Calgary, and Red Hart Brewing's Irish Red ale from Red Deer. 'I served almost all the world leaders and they were great but, being Canadian, it was one of the highlights of my life to serve our newly elected prime minister,' says Hart, who describes himself as a 'proud Canadian' who has visited 12 of the 13 provinces and territories and has each provincial crest tattooed on his leg. 'It was such a huge honour.' For those of you who are judgy about the thought of world leaders sharing a few drinks, keep in mind Hart's biggest G7 cocktail. Designed for two, the Liquid Diplomacy is served in a globe-shaped decanter and features an ingredient from each of the official G7 countries: Italian amaro, German Riesling, Canadian icewine, port from Portugal, a Japanese yuzu wine, you get the picture. (Because of the Canadian boycott on alcohol from the U.S., Hart used American apple juice.) 'Just like the summit, the Liquid Diplomacy is designed to bring people together, to get them to relax and enjoy a conversation together,' says Hart, who holds an MBA in international hospitality from Switzerland's Glion Institute of Higher Education. 'It was one of the most difficult drinks I've ever made in my career, but it turned out fantastic. 'To be able to express my creativity and contribute in a small way to the G7 is one of the biggest honours of my life.' Cabane a Sucre, a.k.a. The Carney This recipe comes from Graham Hart, head mixologist at the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, where the G7 was held in June. It's the cocktail of the month at the Pomeroy in July. Ms. Better's Bitters ( are made in Vancouver; Canadian Club is made in Windsor, Ont. The process of making the Applewood Smoked Ice is complex – Hart cold-smokes the ice, thaws it, re-freezes it and then hand-carves it into cubes. If you're making it at home, he recommends simply making the ice by mixing liquid smoke and water, a ratio of 100 grams of water to two grams of liquid smoke. 2 oz Canadian Club Invitation Classic 15 Year Old Whisky or 2 oz Canadian Club Chronicles 45 Year Old Whisky 1/4 oz (about 1.5 tsp) dark maple syrup 2 dashes of Ms. Better's Bitters Aromatic Bitters Applewood Smoked Ice 1 Maple Taffy candy stick Add smoked ice to a negroni (old-fashioned) glass. Add ice to mixing glass. Add syrup and bitters to mixing glass. Add whisky to mixing glass. Stir 20 times and strain over smoked ice. Garnish with maple taffy stick in the glass. Place on plaid napkin. Serves one.
Forbes
2 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Martini Culture Is Getting Getting More Personal
Clarified martinis, savory infusions and bold garnishes are redefining the classic cocktail in bars across the country. The martini is no longer a fixed idea. What was once a precise formula—gin or vodka with dry vermouth, stirred, served up—is now a broader category open to experimentation and reinterpretation. 'There are plenty of ways to exercise creativity to produce a new variation on the classic martini,' says Maura Milia, a global brand ambassador for Italian vermouth maker Martini, via Zoom. Although the classic martini serve has evolved, Milia specifies the baseline for the cocktail is still the same with two main ingredients. First is the base (gin or vodka) and second is dry vermouth. (And martinis should actually be stirred, not shaken.) Martinis continue to hold a strong presence in the U.S. cocktail scene, with 20% of on-premise cocktail consumers ordering them at bars and restaurants, according to CGA by NIQ's 2024 Cocktails Report. The preference spans across all age groups, indicating the martini's staying power even as tastes shift. The espresso martini, for instance, stands out for its rapid rise over the last few years. Between the third and fourth quarters of 2023, it rose from eighth to fourth in U.S. cocktail sales, growing 91%. In 2024, its sales increased another 116% annually. Despite its minimalist origin, the modern martini has become a canvas for invention. Variations stretch beyond ratios and ingredients. Bartenders now infuse base spirits with herbs, substitute vermouths or reimagine the serve altogether. What was once a straightforward cocktail has grown more flexible and more personal. Some of the changes are subtle, others far more radical. 'Since I'm based in Mexico, I have access to all different ingredients from Europe or the rest of the world,' Milia says. 'I was pleasantly surprised by trying a martini that was infused with Hoja Santa, which is known as Mexican peppermint. It gave the martini this very aromatic and herbal aftertaste while keeping the flavors crisp and sharp.' These adaptations aren't necessarily new, but their frequency and visibility are increasing. Even the most debated versions, like the dirty martini, are being reconsidered. 'Many consumers have different tastes and preferences, so it's a good thing that dirty martinis are evolving,' she says. 'As new generations develop their palate, cocktails that we all know and love will need to evolve to cater to these new tastes.' At the center of this shift is the drinker's desire for control and variation. Fewer people are ordering martinis exactly by the book. Instead, they're seeking precision and customization. The structure of the drink is an invitation to modify, but the process demands restraint. 'Like most things in mixology, it's all about balance,' she says. 'The precision comes at the beginning, with only two core ingredients, and then the mixologist can add their personal flair.' Proper technique affects more than presentation, and with so many variations, simplicity can show the drink was made with care. That said, temperature and dilution are often overlooked by casual drinkers, but they are critical. 'In a classic martini, the correct dilution is essential to soften the alcohol and open up the botanicals,' Milia explains. 'Over stirring or over shaking will make the martini watery and flat, which loses the silky texture while under diluting will create an unbalanced and hard to drink martini.' The growing diversity of ingredients also plays a role. Milia notes that most people assume dry vermouth is essential, but other types are worth attention, such as white vermouth. That blend offers an alternative for those unsure about the traditional version. 'It has subtle sweet vanilla flavors, and it falls right in the middle of sweet and dry,' she says. 'This balanced profile makes it a more approachable variation.' The rise of the 'filthy martini,' a version made with little or no vermouth and house-made brines, is also changing expectations. Milia says that modern drinkers are 'starting to prefer less-strong, more approachable serves, without giving up the martini all together.' Customization extends to the garnish, the brine and even the dilution method. The result is a drink that looks familiar but rarely tastes the same twice. Still, not every modification works. Too much experimentation without focus can lead to imbalance. 'I think a cocktail only becomes gimmicky when it isn't thoughtfully crafted,' Milia says. 'When too many ingredients and flavors are mixed, without attention to detail and thought for what the consumer desires, it can often be overstimulating and look to be doing too much.'
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- General
- Daily Mail
Everything you need to stock the perfect home bar: tools, glasses, and spirits
As someone who has spent the majority of the last five years testing spirits, wines, and bar essentials, it's safe to say I know a thing or two about building a home bar. Whether that's finding you the best muddler to use (or telling you what a muddler is used for) and rounding up the most versatile spirits for your cocktails, I have even the most inexperienced mixologist covered. From cocktail tools to smooth-sipping spirits, here's everything your home bar or bar cart needs to entertain. Bar tools OXO Steel Single Wall Cocktail Shaker $22.49 This functional cocktail shaker has a cap that also doubles as a jigger — allowing you to measure your pours with ease. It's completely leakproof, for even the most rigorous cocktail shakers, and weighs well under a pound for portability. The parts are easy to separate, too, and won't require you to wrestle them apart after use. Shop Beneno Wine Opener $13.99 (18% off) In a world of electric wine openers, you must be wondering why I'm recommending this option. Well, first off, I've had it for years and it's opened countless bottles of red wine for me — with ease. And also, there's something just satisfying about screwing the corkscrew off yourself — I love hearing the pop when I've finally managed to wrestle it out. This option has a great grip, and I've rarely chipped a cork on the way out. It's also a much more affordable pick compared to electric options. Shop Winco Wooden Muddler $5.69 I'm all about a wooden muddler as they're easy to clean and, in my opinion, are the most durable. I specifically use this option to gently mash fruits (especially berries) for summer cocktails. I like the larger surface area and am fond of how efficiently this can crush any berries without completely mushing them. It's all in the amount of pressure though, so make sure not to be overly aggressive when you're muddling. Shop Ice Bucket with Lid, Ice Tongs, Spoon, and Strainer $27.99 No bar cart or bar setup is complete without an ice bucket and ice tongs. An ice bucket can keep your prosecco or white wines chilled, even outside, and the tongs make it easy to scoop just the right amount of cubes into your glass. You'll also get a scooper and an ice strainer in this set, allowing you to store ice for longer — and say goodbye to that pesky melted water with ease. Shop A Bar Above Premium Bell Jigger $19.15 (13% off) Ever seen bartenders measure out their liquors before they pour it in the shaker? Yep, that's what a jigger is used for. This one offers ten internal measurements, and has a stainless steel finish that makes it durable and long-lasting — it resists rust and corrosion. It's extremely precise, and makes a great bar addition for professional and beginner mixologists alike. Shop KITESSENSU Cocktail Shaker Set $36.99 (26% off) If you don't want the hassle of buying individual tools, this cocktail shaker set has everything you need. You'll get a Martini Shaker, Jigger, Strainer, Mixer Spoon, Muddler, Liquor Pourers, corkscrew, and ice tongs within this set. Plus, a stand to hold them all. I also love that the set comes with an included recipe booklet, perfect for novice mixologists to test their skills. Shop Glasses JoyJolt Spirits Stemless Wine Glasses $17.95 (18% off) A lot of wine aficionados might say you need separate glasses for red and white wines, but if you just don't have the space, stemless wine glasses can work in a pinch. I've owned this set for a while now, and they haven't chipped, even after multiple dishwasher trips. You'll get four glasses in this (I bought two sets) and you can even shop them in fun patterns — Hello Kitty wine glasses, anyone? Shop Martini Glasses Set of 2 $19.98 From espresso martinis to dirty gin martinis, the right glass can truly elevate your drinking experience. This set of two delicate crystal glasses will make you feel like you're running a speakeasy in your living room. It's sturdy, has a comfortable grip, and looks good on a bar cart. It's also dishwasher safe for ease of cleaning. Shop Glaskey Whiskey Glasses Set of 4 $18.99 Yes, you could get the expensive Baccarat tumblers if you've got the cash, but these Amazon dupes will do just fine — and they're literally a fraction of the cost. You'll get four crystal glasses in this set. Each is scratch resistant, and dishwasher safe, and has a simple, elegant look. If for whatever reason your glasses arrive even slightly damaged, the brand will quickly issue you a replacement too. Shop JBHO Champagne Glasses $29.96 Toast to your celebrations with these durable crystal glasses. They're hand-blown, surprisingly durable, and are also dishwasher safe. It's best for champagne and sparkling wines, and holds seven ounces of liquid. Fill it to the brim or use it for a toast, either way these champagne flutes don't disappoint. Shop Vintage Art Deco Nick and Nora Coupe Glasse $49.99 Nick & Nora glasses are not a necessity for your bar cart, but they can be used for a variety of cocktails — including martinis, gimlets, and even champagne. I love the vintage design on these, and friends constantly ask me where I purchased them. I specifically use them to serve Manhattans, but the sky is the limit with what you serve in them. I'd rather you buy this set than spring for martini glasses and champagne flutes, especially if you're short on space. Shop Godinger Highball Drinking Glasses $22.79 Highballs are best used to serve mixed drinks — due to their larger capacity. This clear set is dishwasher safe, durable, and has a thick base, which the brand says adds stability and keeps these glasses from shattering. They can hold up to 14 ounces, and can even double as regular water glasses on days you're not entertaining. Shop Glenfiddich 18 year old Whiskey $158 Slightly pricier than both the more economical 12-year-old, this caramel-toned whiskey is easily a bar cart favorite. Expect notes of ripe fruit, baked apple, and oak. The flavor is deep, full, and warm — for me, it tastes like the first day of fall. Drink it neat or use it to create an old fashioned. Shop Gray Whale Gin $51.99 I love Gray Whale for its botanical flavor, featuring juniper, mint, and lime, amongst others. It pairs really well for a summer-themed martini, and tastes great with a splash of tonic water. I also love that the brand gives back to ocean conservation efforts, and protects the majestic Gray Whale with every purchase. Shop Dobel Atelier: Animales Endémicos $253 Every bottle in this limited edition collection is hand-painted by Oaxacan artisans, featuring bright, vivid, and intricate designs. This option is priced over $200 but it's well worth the price for its unique design, collector's quality, and of course, smooth, full flavor. Expect hints of chocolate, agave, and dried fruits on your tongue, and a subtle finish with a hint of smoky wood. Shop Ron Del Barrilito 3 stars $40.94 There's something about a rum old fashioned that just screams summer to me. Make your own with my favorite rum of choice, Ron del Barrilito. Made in Puerto Rico, this smooth medium-bodied rum features notes of vanilla, almonds, dry fruits, and just a hint of ripe bananas. It's just sweet enough to make it easy to drink, and leaves a lingering smoky finish on your palate long after the drink is done. Shop Del Maguey Vida Mezcal $41.96 For non-mezcal drinkers, Del Maguey is a great intro to the brand. This smoky liquor coats your palate and honestly reminds me of a deep honey and cinnamon blended together — with a hint of that smoky flavor all mezcal comes with. Drink it neat or make a margarita out of it — yes, you can use mezcal to make margaritas too. Shop Dubliner Irish Whiskey $30.84 This no-frills Irish whiskey is just what you'll crave after a long day's work. It's a smooth sip, packed with flavors of honey and smoky peppers. The finish is silky smooth and leaves a taste of sweet fruit wrapped with honey on your palate. As far as well-priced whiskeys go, Dubliner's bourbon cask aged whiskey is up there. Shop Ketel One Vodka $29.97 I'm not much of a vodka drinker, but if I had to pick, it would always be Ketel One. It pairs seamlessly well in a martini, and is silky smooth — making this one of the only vodkas I can truly stomach. It has a crisp, refreshing flavor, and tastes best chilled. Shop Mionetto 'Prestige' Organic Prosecco $13.54 No one does prosecco like Mionetto, and their organic prosecco is my favorite from their Prestige Collection. It has a rich flavor with notes of ripe golden apples, honey, pear, and peach. It's fresh, and the drink of the summer. Layer it in a spritz or sip it by itself. You and your guests won't be disappointed. Shop
