Cocktail Basics: The five techniques that unlock everything.

A cocktail is just a considered mixture — usually a spirit, something sweet, something sour or bitter, and something to dilute or lengthen it. The techniques dictate the mouthfeel.

The five moves

Shake

For anything with juice, dairy or egg. Aerates, chills fast, adds tiny bubbles. Shake HARD for 10-12 seconds.

Stir

For all-spirit drinks like Martinis and Manhattans. Chills without diluting or clouding.

Build

Layer directly in the glass. Gin & Tonic, Mojito, Old Fashioned. Simple, elegant.

Muddle

Gently press herbs or fruit to release oils. Never shred — bruised mint tastes bitter.

Layer

Slowly pour heavier liquids first, then float lighter ones on the back of a spoon.

Your first three tools

A shaker (Boston or three-piece), a jigger (measure!), and a strainer. That's it. Everything else is nice-to-have.