What is Mixology? How to Become an Alchemist of Drinks?

What is Mixology? Who is a Mixologist? These are two questions that Sunich will discuss further and tell you that mixology is the science of mixing drinks, and a mixologist is like an alchemist or chemist in the world of drinks. So stay with us to understand the ins and outs of this important skill. We will also talk about the difference between a mixologist and a bartender and the tools of mixology.

What is Mixology? How to Invent Drinks like a Chemist?

Mixology is a skill that many people around the world enjoy learning; from learning coffee mixology to cold bar mixology, this field has attracted many enthusiasts. Yes! You can use mixology to make and invent delicious mocktails for yourself or impress your friends at a party; this means learning mixology is both fun and practical!

Mixology is the art and science of making delicious mocktails. Mixology involves a deep knowledge of ingredients, types of drinks, and the techniques and tools used to mix different drinks.

Is Mixology that Simple?

Some people might see this skill as: "It's easy! You just pour a drink from one glass into another"! We tell them no, it's not as simple as you think! Mixology has a rich history. The history of mixology is full of stories of bartenders who have used various techniques over the centuries to create innovative drinks.

Mixology is still a key element of mocktail culture, and many restaurants and beverage companies have branded themselves with various classic and modern mocktails; just think of mocktails like Manhattan, Margarita, Moscow Mule, or Piña Colada.

What Are the Types of Mixology?

Mixology has various types. Here are some of the most popular types of mixology:

Classic Mixology

This type of mixology focuses on classic mocktails that have been popular for centuries. These drinks are usually made with a bitter aftertaste. Examples include Margarita, Old Fashioned, and Daiquiri.

Modern Mixology

This type of mixology is all about experimenting and creating new and experimental mocktails. Mixologists specializing in modern mixology often use unique ingredients and techniques to create creative drinks.

Barista Mixology

Making coffee-based mocktails is pursued in barista mixology. The popularity of this type of mixology, known as coffee mixology, is increasing as more people become interested in coffee-based drinks.

Tiki Mixology

Tiki mixology is a style of mixology that emerged in the 1930s and 1940s. It focuses on making mocktails with tropical flavors and ingredients. Those interested in cold bar mixology usually enjoy learning tiki mixology.

Who is a Mixologist?

A mixologist is a bartender who specializes in the art of mixing mocktails. In fact, this term is one of the bartending terms you should know.

The word "mixologist" was first seen in an article in the 1860 Raftsman’s Journal, but this term became popular after being published in Jerry Thomas's important book in 1862, "How to Mix Drinks." This book collected and published many of today's classic mixology recipes for the first time. This book made Jerry Thomas one of America's most famous mixologists.

Difference between a Mixologist and a Bartender

Some bartenders may consider themselves mixologists just because they can make delicious mocktails, but to truly be a mixologist, you need more than just mixing different ingredients. Generally, consider the following points about the difference between a mixologist and a bartender:

• While bartenders focus on making and serving existing mocktails, sometimes adding their own special touches, mixologists focus on inventing newer drinks and/or fundamentally changing existing drinks.
• A mixologist uses their talents as a specialist in combining the ingredients of a drink. Mixologists also apply scientific knowledge by studying different elements and their combinations and then finding the best combinations.
• One of the most common debates is that mixologists focus on drinks, while bartenders focus on customers.

But the most important thing to remember is: a bartender can be a mixologist, but a mixologist is not necessarily a bartender, although there is much debate among experts about this.

What Skills Should a Mixologist Have%3F

A mixologist should be well-versed in classic and modern mocktail recipes and be able to creatively make new recipes when needed. Just like a musician who can improvise and let themselves be carried away by the notes of their instrument. Overall, a mixologist should have the following skills:

• Mocktail Making: Mocktail making is a major part of a mixologist's duties. They are responsible for creating unique combinations of different ingredients to make mocktails that customers enjoy.
• Customer Service: Customer service skills are important for a mixologist as they often interact with customers.
• Attention to Detail: Attention to detail is a skill that can help you become an expert mixologist.
• Inventory Management: A mixologist should be able to manage the inventory of their ingredients and resources.
• Event Coordination: A mixologist can use event coordination skills to plan and execute events such as weddings, birthdays, or corporate gatherings.
• Bar Maintenance: Bar maintenance skills are important for a mixologist as they help ensure the proper functioning of mixology bar equipment.
• Menu Planning: A mixologist should be able to plan and create various drink menus.
• Interpersonal Skills: Interaction with customers and colleagues is part of a mixologist's job.
• Creativity: Creativity is the ability to think of new ideas and solutions. As a mixologist, you may need to create unique mocktails for customers or invent your own special drinks.
• Organization: Organization is the ability to keep track of multiple tasks and responsibilities.
• Leadership: A mixologist should be a strong leader to manage their bar and customers.

To become a mixologist, it may take anywhere from a few weeks to several years. Mixologists need practice and experimentation more than anything else. At the beginning, it is better to start by making classic mocktails or creating new mixes that come to your mind. In the end, don't be afraid of creativity! Just remember: the important thing is to take the time to learn the principles of flavor combination, balance, and technique.

Final Word; What Are the Tools of Mixology?

In fact, mixology tools are like magic props, and when a mixologist knows these tools, they can amaze everyone on stage by inventing delicious and memorable flavors!

• Bartending bottle opener
• Opener
• Corkscrew
• Mocktail shaker
• Various specialized strainers
• Different spoons, especially bar spoons
• All-purpose juicers
• Knife set, especially channel knife
• Glasses
• Professional coffee makers

 Various glasses and goblets

Among the mixology tools, these are the most important ones you need. Of course, the list of bartending tools is very extensive, and we only mentioned the main tools.