Mixology has become an increasingly popular career path in recent years. And that’s not surprising considering it’s more than just following a recipe: It’s the art of mixing different ingredients and playing with flavor profiles to create delicious cocktails that leave people wanting more.
Mixology is all about combining ingredients, finding new flavors, and showcasing creativity. Today, we will explore what mixology is, how to become a mixologist, and the importance of mixology classes and mixology certification online.
Photo by Taylor Davidson via www.unsplash.com
What Is Mixology?
Mixology involves creating cocktails and changing existing ones. It’s a unique combination of creativity and technical expertise, with a focus on mixing, blending, and balancing different flavors to create the perfect drink. It’s a skill that requires both passion and dedication, with various techniques to learn and recipes to memorize.
The Difference Between Mixology & Bartending
While bartending and mixology are often used interchangeably, there’s a distinct difference between the two: Bartending is making and serving drinks to customers, whereas mixology is really the creation of drinks.
Bartending is primarily focused on serving classic cocktails from existing recipes, whereas mixology focuses on creating innovative and new cocktails, using a wide variety of techniques and ingredients, and reinventing classics.
Copyright A Bar Above
Mixology Techniques
Mixology is a complex art, with a variety of techniques that are used to create the perfect drink. The most common mixology techniques include shaking, stirring, muddling, and blending. Shaking is used for drinks that include fruit juice, cream, muddled ingredients, a variety of ingredients of varying density, and/or egg white.
Stirring is commonly used for cocktails that are spirit-based (with very few ingredients that are all of similar density), such as Martinis.
Muddling is the crushing fruit or herbs to extract the flavor, and blending is used to create frozen drinks with a blender and ice cubes.
Copyright A Bar Above
Importance Of Ingredients & Tools In Mixology
To create great cocktails, it’s essential to have the right tools and ingredients. Essential tools in mixologist bar sets include shakers, jiggers, muddlers, and strainers. These tools help to measure and mix ingredients, creating consistent and well-balanced cocktails.
It’s also essential to use fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially herbs, fruits, and syrups. These ingredients add depth and complexity to cocktails, creating unique and memorable flavors– but fresh is pretty much always better.
How To Become A Mixologist
If you’re interested in mixology and are thinking of pursuing it as a career, there are a few steps you can take to become a mixologist– and to make sure it’s for you.
Photo courtesy of DesignPickle/stock.adobe.com
Develop A Passion For Mixology
The first step to becoming a mixologist is to develop a passion for mixology. This involves experimenting with different ingredients and flavors, learning about cocktail history, and exploring new recipes.
By developing a passion for mixology, you’ll become more motivated to pursue it as a career. If it doesn’t spark a little fire in you as you practice, then it’s probably not the right path for you.
Get A Bartending Job
To gain practical experience in mixology, it’s important to get a bartending job– but you may have to start at the bottom. Become a bar back first, take time to learn, and work your way up.
Back back, service, and bartending jobs are available in a variety of settings, such as restaurants, bars, and hotels. This will give you an opportunity to learn from experienced bartenders, gain experience in mixology, and work on your craft– all while getting paid for it.
Photo by Helena Lopes via www.unsplash.com
Learn From Other Mixologists
Learning from other mixologists is an excellent way to gain knowledge and experience in mixology. Besides getting a job in the field, you can attend mixology events, join a local mixology club, or attend mixology seminars. This will give you a chance to network with other mixologists, learn new techniques, and get feedback on your creations.
Take Mixology Classes & Mixology Courses Online
Mixology classes and mixology courses online are an excellent way to gain in-depth knowledge and expertise in mixology. These classes cover a range of topics, such as cocktail history, mixology techniques, and the use of different ingredients.
Mixology training and mixology courses online are available in a variety of formats, such as online video tutorials, webinars, conferences, and in-person workshops. These courses provide hands-on experience and allow you to practice your skills under the guidance of experienced mixologists.
Copyright A Bar Above
Mixology Certification Online
Getting a mixology certification online is gives you formal recognition of your knowledge and expertise in mixology. Online courses in mixology provide an excellent opportunity to learn new techniques while being able to show off your hard work and knowledge to potential employers with a formal certificate.
Mixology certification online can give you a competitive edge in the industry and demonstrate your commitment to the profession.
Photo courtesy of DesignPickle/stock.adobe.com
Participate In Competitions
Competitions are a great way to showcase your mixology skills and gain recognition in the industry. Mixology competitions are held in various cities and countries, and winning these competitions can open doors to exciting job opportunities. Participating in competitions is an excellent way to meet other mixologists, learn new techniques, spark interesting ideas, and showcase your creativity.
Photo courtesy of DesignPickle/stock.adobe.com
Tips For Choosing The Right Mixologist Courses
OK, so we’re super biased and think that our own courses are the best on the market. We have worked really hard to put together relevant, informative, and engaging info on a variety of topics. But since we have several courses to choose from and it’s important to find the best course for you (even if it’s not with us), we want to guide you in the right direction.
Choosing the right mixologist courses is key for gaining the necessary knowledge and expertise in mixology. Here are a few tips for choosing the right mixologist courses for your needs:
- Choose a course that aligns with your career goals and interests. If you’re already experienced, skip the basics and find a more in-depth program.
- Look for a course that provides hands-on experience and practical skills, even if that’s in the comfort of your own home. You probably don’t just want a lecture; it’s way more beneficial to follow along and practice in time with the instructor– whether in person or on video.
- Research the reputation of the institution offering the course.
- Look for courses that provide a mixology certification online.
- Consider the cost of the course and the value of what you’re getting. It’s definitely worth investing in your education, but you also have to work within your budget, of course. But if this is the career you really want, expect to put in some money up front to get trained properly. Think of all the money people spend on 4-year colleges!
Copyright A Bar Above
Mixology is certainly an exciting and rewarding career that requires passion, creativity, and technical expertise. Making this your actual career requires dedication and hard work, but it’s a career that offers endless opportunities for growth and development.
By following our advice and taking mixologist courses, you can gain the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in this exciting industry. Explore the online courses available (like ours!), learn from experienced mixologists, and experiment with different ingredients and flavors to become a master mixologist. Cheers!
