Anyone who has ever watched a mixologist create a cocktail can agree that cocktail-making is indeed an art. In fact, I’m sure that you’ve always wondered how they manage to separate the ingredients, such as the different juices and colours, in order to concoct something which looks like it should be on display at an art exhibition.
This technique used by bartenders is called ‘layering’. Yet, apart from adding colourful accents to the cocktail, layering creates a flavoured experience as we drink. The baristas at Hugo’s Lounge, which is owned by Hugo Chetcuti and his partner Jonathan Grima, share a few tips on how to achieve that layered effect in your drinks.
Begin with the heaviest drink
It is all about gravity. The trick is to layer ingredients according to how heavy they are, so the bottom ingredients of a drink needs to be heavier than those on the top. Grenadine is one of the heaviest liquids used in the bar and it almost always sinks to the bottom of a glass, even when it’s the last ingredient poured.
Slow down the pour
In order to prevent two liquids from mixing together, it’s important to slow down the pour. This can be done using a speed pourer, especially if the liquor bottle is full and heavy. Alternatively, hold a spoon – preferably a bar spoon – upside down over of the drink. Slowly pour the liquor over the back of the spoon and on top of the drink. Move the spoon up as the glass fills. This works because the spoon disperses the top liquid.
Chill it up
One of the keys to making a great cocktail is serving it in a cold glass. This can be done by chilling the glass itself, which is the best way to keep your cocktail crisp and cool for a longer period. Apart from the nice aesthetic, the resulting frost adds to the final presentation. Additionally, if your drink doesn’t include ice, it’s best to chill the ingredients before pouring.
Presentation
The last step of making a visually-appealing cocktail is garnishing as this is what makes it all come together. You can garnish with a cocktail umbrella, a salty olive or a bright piece of fruit such as a cherry. Lastly, avoid stirring the drink in order to keep the layered effect.
If you’re looking for a night out and your taste buds are craving to be satisfied, be them sweet or bitter, make sure to book a table at Hugo’s Lounge! Combined with a fully stocked bar, a vast range of unrivalled cocktails made using only the finest spirits and best ingredients, great music mixed by resident and international guest Dj’s and an uplifting atmosphere, Hugo’s Lounge® is the ultimate destination to drink, dine, dance and socialize in Malta.
