Author: Derek Rogers

Cocktails are not only savoury to sip but also look exciting and fun to drink; they are perfect for celebrations as they tend to elicit a pleasurable response among drinkers. Fortunately, cocktails can be made at home like a professional.

TIP 1: Be ready with glasses
Cocktails will not look like one if you do not use the appropriate glass. Besides, cocktails are meant to be consumed when they are cold, so using large glasses will take time to finish and you will end up not really enjoying the taste. It is recommended to invest in cocktail glasses such as martini, margarita, and highball glasses.

TIP 2: Keep a collection of cocktail tools and supplies
Jazz up your bar with the basic barware; it is essential that you have the right measuring equipments to create a well-balanced drink. Opting for a jigger or a shot glass is good for measuring the necessary ounces. Also get a durable blender that is safe to use in the dishwasher and do not forget those famous cocktail shakers.

TIP 3: Get equipped with some cocktail recipes
Check out those cocktail books that feature the classic Sidecar and Manhattan. You can also step into the modern world by adding pureed vegetables into the drink instead of pureed fruit, but do not put in too much experimentation though as you might end up with a nasty tasting mix.

TIP 4: Use only the finest ingredients
Don't worry too much about looking for what you need to put in. Use fruits and vegetables that are in season and liquor that will complement its flavour. Having tomatoes or peaches in summer make fantastic cocktail ingredients.

TIP 5: The chilling process
As soon as you are equipped and ready, start by chilling those cocktail glasses. It can be as simple as putting the glass in the freezer for some hours or pouring in water with ice. Take them out only when you are ready to pour the mixed drink, this way the drink is kept smooth and cool for a longer time after it has been served.

TIP 6: Measuring your spirits
Always hold spirit bottles by the neck when pouring. There is nothing really special to this; it is just that by doing so, you are making it easier on yourself to put in exactly the accurate measure.

TIP 7: Adding the ice
Now that you have poured in all the ingredients, add some ice before you start shaking them. This should be fresh ice though so if you need to buy them then do so. Firm ice will prevent it from melting too quickly and will make a crisp cocktail drink.

TIP 8: Shake it well and shake it some more
This is probably the grooviest part in cocktail mixing. While you can practice all those impressive stunts, just make sure that you mix the drink well inside the shaker until the cold spreads throughout the shaker.

TIP 9: Dress up that cocktail.
Cocktail drinks will kind of look empty without some little garnishing. Ripe limes make the cocktail presentation come alive as well as complementing your mix. They can be cut into wedges, slices, and half-moons for that attractive garnish.

TIP 10: Taste it before you serve it.
Take a small sip and see if you have done well, this way you can make sure that your guests will enjoy it as much as you.

About the Author:
Derek Rogers is a freelance writer who writes for a number of UK businesses. For wine merchants & importers he recommends Alexander Hadleigh, a leading supplier of some of the finest Dry and Sweet Wines

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Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - 10 Top Tips on Making Cocktails