The Fizz that Makes Your Drink Delicious: A Guide to Alcohol Mixers.
When it comes to mixing drinks with alcohol, the possibilities are truly endless. Whether you’re concocting a classic gin and tonic or something completely off-the-wall, the right alcohol mixers can help you take your favorite spirits to the next level. However, if you’re not used to mixing drinks you might feel like you’re in uncharted territory. Never fear, because we are here to help! This guide will provide you with all the information you need to take your Libations-making Skills up a notch.
First things first–what is an alcohol mixer? It’s a non-alcoholic beverage that can be used to enhance the flavor of alcoholic drinks. It’s designed to compliment the spirit without overpowering it, allowing the liquid to shine. Keep in mind that the wrong mixer can be a disaster; the best combinations will take into account the spirit’s flavor profile, giving a well-rounded mix that allows for each flavor to be tasted.
Now that you know what alcohol mixers are let’s discuss some of the most popular varieties, starting with natural flavor enhancers. Fruit juices, such as orange and cranberry, are great for sprucing up cocktails and giving them a boost of sweetness. Fresh fruits like cherries, strawberries, and even pineapple are also great mixers. You can even get creative and combine flavors to create custom cocktails.
For a little more complexity, there are plenty of sweetened sodas that make great mixers. Ginger ale is a classic choice that has been used to enhance the flavor of whiskey since the 1800s. Tonic water is another popular choice that pairs especially well with gin, while the slightly sweeter surge of a cola drink such as Sprite mixes well with clear spirits such as vodka.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also try mixing drinks with flavored syrups. Mixing just one ounce of pear syrup with vodka, for example, will give your drink a vibrant and sweet taste. If you prefer a more floral flavor, adding honey with a few drops of almond extract can do the trick. Mint extract can also make for a refreshing addition to many drinks.
For those who don’t have time to experiment with flavorings, there’s always premade alcohol mixers. These are easy to customize with different spirits, or even just used as they are. Some popular premade mixers include Bloody Mary mix, which works especially well with vodka, and Margarita mix, which has a tart citrus flavor that pairs nicely with tequila.
There are even mixers specifically designed for beer and wine. Wine mixers such as sweet vermouth and bitters can help to add flavor and complexity to your favorite glass of white or red. Or with beer, you can add a splash of lime juice or even ginger beer to create an effervescent and zesty pint.
Finally, if you want to keep it simple then a splash of tonic or soda water can make for a great mixer. The bubbles will add an effervescence to any drink and give it a subtler taste that won’t overpower the alcohol.
So the next time you’re looking to mix drinks, don’t forget to take into account the flavor profile of your liquor and add the right alcohol mixer to get the perfect balance. With the right combination, there’s no limit to the flavor possibilities waiting to be discovered in your glass. Cheers!