A well-stocked bar is one of the hallmarks of a good host. Whether you are entertaining guests or just want to enjoy a drink after a long day, having a variety of mixers on hand can make all the difference. From classic cocktails to modern creations, there are endless possibilities when it comes to mixing drinks.

However, with so many mixers available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why a drink mixers guide can be a valuable resource. It can provide information on essential mixers to stock in your home bar, tips on how to check their freshness, and recommendations for popular cocktail recipes. With a little knowledge and preparation, anyone can become a skilled bartender and impress their guests with delicious, well-crafted drinks.

Understanding Drink Mixers

What are Drink Mixers?

Drink mixers are non-alcoholic ingredients that are used to enhance the flavor of alcoholic drinks. They are used to dilute the strength of the alcohol, add sweetness, tanginess, or bitterness, and create complex flavor profiles. Drink mixers can be carbonated or non-carbonated, syrupy or watery, and can come in a variety of flavors.

Why Use Drink Mixers?

Drink mixers are used for a variety of reasons. First, they can make the drink more palatable by adding sweetness or tanginess to the drink. Second, they can help mask the taste of alcohol, making it easier to drink. Third, they can add complexity to the flavor of the drink, making it more interesting to drink. Finally, drink mixers can make the drink more visually appealing by adding color or texture.

Types of Drink Mixers

There are many types of drink mixers available, and they can be used to create a wide variety of drinks. Here are some of the most common types of drink mixers:

• Carbonated Mixers – Carbonated mixers like soda water, tonic water, and cola are used to add fizz to the drink and dilute the strength of the alcohol.
• Fruit Juices – Fruit juices like orange, cranberry, and pineapple are used to add sweetness and tanginess to the drink.
• Syrups – Syrups like grenadine, simple syrup, and honey syrup are used to add sweetness to the drink.
• Bitters – Bitters like Angostura and Peychaud’s are used to add bitterness and complexity to the drink.
• Creams – Creams like Irish cream and coconut cream are used to add richness and creaminess to the drink.
• Garnishes – Garnishes like citrus wedges, olives, and cherries are used to add visual appeal to the drink.

By using a combination of these drink mixers, bartenders can create a wide variety of drinks with different flavors and complexities.

Essential Drink Mixers

When it comes to making cocktails, having the right mixers on hand is essential. Mixers can add sweetness, acidity, or effervescence to a drink, and can help balance the flavors of the spirits used. Here are some essential drink mixers that every home bartender should have:

Lemons and Limes

Fresh citrus is a must-have for any home bar. Lemons and limes are versatile mixers that can add acidity and brightness to a wide range of cocktails. A squeeze of lemon or lime juice can help balance the sweetness of a cocktail, while also adding a refreshing zing. Citrus wedges can also be used as a garnish for drinks, adding both visual appeal and a burst of flavor.

Simple Syrup

Simple syrup is a mixture of sugar and water that has been heated until the sugar dissolves. It is a common sweetener used in cocktails, and is particularly useful for drinks that require a sweetener that will dissolve easily. Simple syrup can be made at home by combining equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan and heating until the sugar dissolves. Once cooled, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month.

Tonic Water

Tonic water is a carbonated mixer that is commonly used in gin and tonics. It has a slightly bitter flavor and a distinctive quinine taste, which pairs well with the botanicals in gin. Tonic water can also be used in other cocktails that call for a bitter or effervescent component, such as a vodka tonic or a tequila and tonic.

Club Soda

Club soda is a carbonated mixer that is similar to tonic water, but without the quinine flavor. It is a versatile mixer that can be used to add effervescence to a wide range of cocktails, from a simple rum and soda to a complex gin fizz. Club soda can also be used to dilute a drink that is too strong, or to add a bit of fizz to non-alcoholic drinks.

In summary, having these essential drink mixers on hand can help elevate your home bartending game. Lemons and limes add acidity and brightness, simple syrup adds sweetness, tonic water adds bitterness and effervescence, and club soda adds effervescence and dilution. With these mixers in your arsenal, you’ll be able to make a wide range of delicious cocktails at home.

Advanced Drink Mixers

For those looking to take their cocktail game to the next level, advanced drink mixers can add a unique twist to classic recipes. Here are a few advanced drink mixers to consider:

Grenadine

Grenadine is a sweet, red syrup made from pomegranate juice. It’s often used in classic cocktails like the tequila sunrise and the Shirley Temple. In addition to adding sweetness and color, grenadine can also add a hint of tartness to a drink.

When using grenadine, it’s important to note that not all grenadine is created equal. Some store-bought brands may contain high fructose corn syrup and artificial flavors. For a more natural option, consider making your own grenadine at home using pomegranate juice and sugar.

Triple Sec

Triple sec is a type of orange-flavored liqueur that’s commonly used in margaritas, cosmopolitans, and other citrusy cocktails. It adds a sweet, fruity flavor and can help balance out the sourness of citrus juices.

When selecting a triple sec, consider opting for a higher quality brand. Cheaper options may contain artificial flavors and colors, while higher quality options will be made with real fruit and have a more complex flavor profile.

Bitters

Bitters are a concentrated blend of herbs, spices, and other flavorings that are used to add depth and complexity to cocktails. They come in a variety of flavors, including aromatic, citrus, and herbal.

When using bitters, it’s important to remember that a little goes a long way. Just a few drops can add a significant amount of flavor to a drink. Additionally, different bitters will pair better with different spirits. For example, aromatic bitters pair well with whiskey, while citrus bitters are a great match for gin.

Overall, these advanced drink mixers can help take cocktails to the next level. By experimenting with different flavors and ingredients, bartenders can create unique and delicious drinks that are sure to impress.

Specialty Drink Mixers

For those looking to add a unique twist to their cocktails, specialty drink mixers are a must-have for any home bar. These mixers can add a pop of color, flavor, and sweetness to any drink. Here are a few popular specialty drink mixers to consider:

Cream of Coconut

Cream of coconut is a sweet, creamy mixer that is perfect for tropical cocktails. It is made from coconut cream, sugar, and sometimes vanilla. This mixer is commonly used in drinks like Pina Coladas and Chi-Chis. It can also be used to add a touch of sweetness to coffee or tea.

When using cream of coconut, it’s important to shake the can well before opening it. The cream may have separated, and shaking it will ensure that it is properly mixed. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for future use.

Blue Curacao

Blue Curacao is a bright blue liqueur that adds a pop of color to any drink. It has a sweet, orange flavor and is commonly used in tropical cocktails like Blue Hawaiian and Blue Margarita. It can also be used to add color to non-alcoholic drinks like lemonade or soda.

When using Blue Curacao, it’s important to remember that a little goes a long way. Too much can overpower the other flavors in the drink and make it too sweet. It’s also important to store it in a cool, dry place to maintain its bright blue color.

Rose’s Lime Juice

Rose’s Lime Juice is a sweet and sour mixer made from lime juice and sugar. It is commonly used in drinks like Gimlets and Margaritas. It can also be used to add a touch of sweetness to sparkling water or lemonade.

When using Rose’s Lime Juice, it’s important to remember that it is quite sweet. It’s best to start with a small amount and add more as needed. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for future use.

Overall, specialty drink mixers are a fun and easy way to add a unique twist to your cocktails. By experimenting with different flavors and colors, you can create your own signature drinks that are sure to impress your guests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular mixers for alcohol?

There are many popular mixers for alcohol, including club soda, tonic water, fruit juices, and soft drinks. Some of the most popular mixers for alcohol are cola, lemon-lime soda, and ginger ale. These mixers are often used in classic cocktails like the rum and coke, gin and tonic, and whiskey ginger.

What are the basic mixers for cocktails?

The basic mixers for cocktails are simple syrup, citrus juice, and soda water. Simple syrup is made by dissolving equal parts sugar and water, and is used to add sweetness to cocktails. Citrus juice, such as lemon or lime juice, is used to add acidity and flavor to cocktails. Soda water is used to add carbonation and dilute the cocktail.

What are the 5 basic spirits used in a bar?

The 5 basic spirits used in a bar are vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and whiskey. These spirits are used as the base for many cocktails and mixed drinks. Vodka is often used in cocktails like the martini and bloody mary, while gin is used in drinks like the gin and tonic and the negroni. Rum is used in cocktails like the daiquiri and mojito, while tequila is used in drinks like the margarita and paloma. Whiskey is used in cocktails like the old fashioned and whiskey sour.

What is the best ratio of alcohol to mixer?

The best ratio of alcohol to mixer depends on the cocktail being made. Some cocktails, like the martini, are made with a higher ratio of alcohol to mixer, while others, like the margarita, are made with a lower ratio of alcohol to mixer. A good rule of thumb is to use a ratio of 2:1 mixer to alcohol for most cocktails.

What are some easy mixed drink recipes?

There are many easy mixed drink recipes that can be made with just a few ingredients. Some popular easy mixed drink recipes include the screwdriver, made with vodka and orange juice, the gin and tonic, made with gin and tonic water, and the rum and coke, made with rum and cola.

What is the most popular drink mix?

The most popular drink mix varies depending on the region and the time of year. In the summer, popular drink mixes include margaritas, mojitos, and piña coladas, while in the winter, popular drink mixes include hot toddies, mulled wine, and spiked eggnog. Overall, the most popular drink mix is probably the classic martini, made with gin or vodka and vermouth.