There’s no exact science when it comes to the drink preferences of customers. Nor is there one cocktail to please everyone. This is where mixology comes in to save the day. Mixology involves the act of creating and recreating drinks of different kinds to suit the needs of every individual. The desire to create perfect cocktails repeatedly is what fuels the mixologist. So what exactly does this term entail? Where does it come from and why does it matter?
What is Mixology?
Mixology is defined as the practice of making good cocktails. It is often used interchangeably with the more well-known term bartending. But we’ll get into that a little later on. A mixologist is simply a person who performs mixology. Mixology is a creative craft, using edible ingredients in the form of liquids and solids. Usually, the drinks consist of alcohol-infused mixes, but you can also create non-alcoholic versions (called virgin cocktails). The term mixologist is similar to the word “barista,” in that it describes a person creating a kind of drink. Baristas make coffee-inspired creations while mixologists use alcohol, herbs, fresh fruits, and freshly pressed juices. This term is not new, with usage dating back to the 19th century.
History of the Term
The term mixologist was first introduced to bar culture in the 1800s as a descriptor for high-end or luxury bartenders. During this time, only the finest liquors, used alongside fresh ingredients, were acceptable in these spaces. Since then, the word seemed to disappear from everyday vocabulary. However, the modern cocktail age has brought it back with gusto. But does the term hold the same meaning?
In today’s jargon, the term mixologist gets mixed reviews. Some believe it is simply a pretentious word used by bartenders to set themselves apart. Others consider it an acceptable term that displays the craft and skill involved in cocktail making. This topic has become part of a wider bar culture debate.
The Debate – Is it Bartender or Mixologist?
The only way to dive into the debate is to break it down further. Here are full descriptions of each term for clarification:
Bartender
A bartender is required to fulfil these duties and have the following skills:
- A fundamental knowledge of different cocktails
- Possesses hospitality and people skills
- Expert skills in making different cocktails
- Has experience and training
- Is fluent in bar lingo
- Knows how to please different kinds of customers
- Can prepare drinks under pressure
- Can serve multiple customers simultaneously
Mixologist
A mixologist generally has the following traits and skills:
- Requires extensive knowledge of different cocktails
- Knowledge of taste and flavour combinations
- Experiments with new flavour creations and concoctions
- Understands the importance of exact quantities
- Pays close attention to presentation of drinks
- Continues to educate themselves in the field
The End Result
What it all comes down to, and what actually matters at the end of the day, is the craft. We believe what makes a bartender great is their skill, not their title. We like to use these terms interchangeably as a means to showcase the exceptional artisanship of our Thirsty Barmen. No matter what they call themselves, they can be proud of their accomplishments.
To become a proud mixologist or bartender takes training and dedication. You can take a number of courses that teach everything from bar etiquette to alcohol service laws. Think you have what it takes to become one yourself? Contact Thirst Bar Academy to quench that thirst for knowledge!
