Terminology, Part 2

So, now you are an expert muddler (have you gotten the impression that I like muddling yet? Good.) Now, here are some other bar terms that will serve you well:

• Boxing: To pour in and out of a shaker one time only. (Mixes without shaking)
• Lacing: Adding the last ingredient in a recipe, pouring on top.
• Mulling: Adding spice to heated wine or beer. (Use spice ball or strainer. No one likes choking on nutmeg or cloves.)
• Neat: Drinking the alcohol by itself. Also called 'straight up'.
• On the Rocks: Drinking the alcohol over ice cubes.
• Rim: Wet the rim of a glass with lime and then press into a saucer of salt or sugar.
• Virgin: Drinking a common cocktail without the alcohol. (Not all drinks work...)

You should be an expert now. Right? Well, if not an expert, then a reasonably informed bartender. Just a note... if someone asks for a specific brand, that is a 'call drink.' Be honest if you don't have the specific ingredient. Good luck!

(originally posted May 13, 2012)