How to read a cocktail

The base

The main spirit defines the direction: more botanical gin, more rounded rum, deeper whisky, more vegetal tequila. He is not the only protagonist, but he establishes the playing field.

Balance

Sweet, sour, bitter and alcohol must support each other without shouting. A great cocktail does not hide its strength, it makes it legible.

Temperature and dilution

Ice is not furniture. It cools and dilutes, transforming consistency and aromatic perception. A drink that is too hot or too diluted loses definition.

The texture

Silky, brilliant, creamy, effervescent: the tactile sensation is as much a part of the recipe as the taste. It's often what distinguishes a proper cocktail from a memorable one.