Mixology Fundamentals Flashcards
6 cards from real Bartender Certification practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Mixology Fundamentals flashcards as text
What does 'balancing a cocktail' mean?
Answer: Achieving harmony between the sweet, sour, bitter, and spirit components
Balancing a cocktail means achieving the right harmony between its flavor components — sweet, sour, bitter, and the base spirit — so no single element overpowers the others.
What is the purpose of bitters in cocktails?
Answer: To add depth, complexity, and balance, especially enhancing the spirit's character
Bitters are concentrated flavor extracts that add depth, complexity, and a balancing element to cocktails, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
What spirit forms the base of a classic Daiquiri?
Answer: Rum
A classic Daiquiri is made with white rum, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup — rum is the foundational spirit.
What is a 'shrub' in modern mixology?
Answer: An acidic syrup made with vinegar, sugar, and fruit used as a cocktail mixer
A shrub is a drinking vinegar made by combining fruit, sugar, and vinegar, historically used as a preservation method and now popular as a tart, complex cocktail ingredient.
What type of ice is best for cocktails that should be diluted quickly?
Answer: Cracked or crushed ice
Cracked or crushed ice has a greater surface area than large cubes, causing faster melting and dilution — ideal for cocktails like Mint Juleps and Swizzles that benefit from more dilution.
What does the term 'spirit-forward' mean when describing a cocktail?
Answer: The base spirit's flavor is prominent, with minimal dilution from mixers
A spirit-forward cocktail is one where the base spirit's character is the dominant flavor, typically with minimal mixers — examples include the Manhattan, Martini, and Negroni.