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When you order a cocktail in a bar, the bartender makes it fresh, probably not right in front of you, but chilled glass, large ice cubes, and refreshing taste are proof. You enjoy it right then and there else the drink loses its freshness and becomes more diluted. How do you maintain the same quality of serving when you are hosting a cocktail party at home?
You cannot offer restaurant-like service at home where you present a guest's favourite drink in a jiffy, however, you can prepare a couple of classic cocktails in large batches. The safest bet is whisky cocktails that most bibulous prefer. Follow the tips below to prepare a pitcher and serve it to guests while preserving its quality.
Scale Up The Recipe
Be sure of the amount of each ingredient you will be adding to the pitcher. For example, if 30 ml of whisky for one cocktail, then you will need to pour at least 240 ml for eight people. Scaling up according to the length of the guest list is necessary so that proportions are accurate and the drink maintains its nose, flavour, and finish. You will also be wary of reducing water dilution because you will be adding ice to maintain freshness and temperature.
Pre-Dilute To Maintain Consistency
Have you ever tried Manhattan or Old Fashioned whisky cocktails? These must be pre-diluted with water to replicate the effect left behind by stirring of ice. If you are confused about the amount of water, add at least 20% water to the total volume of the cocktail. For example, if you are making a litre of Manhattan, add 200 ml of water to it.
Choose The Right Fusion
Not every whisky cocktail can be made in large batches. Consider the ones that need eggs or dairy products. Their shelf life is much less than the soda and juice-based alcoholic beverages. Consider making whisky sour without eggs, old fashioned, Rob Roy, and boulevardier. These remain fresh for a long time.
Garnish And Final Touches
A serving of cocktail is as fresh as the garnishing. Imagine if a bartender serves you a beverage with shrunken lemon and orange wedges. You will instantly ask for a refund. Hence, make sure to add fresh fruits, cherries, and citrus peels to keep the drink fresh. Similarly, don’t add the soda in advance while making the cocktails, instead serve it on the side. You can pour it fresh into the glasses and the bubbles will elevate the experience.
Storage Container Matters
When serving cocktails, you must ensure they have no foul odour. Hence, you should use thoroughly washed and clean glass pitchers. The material does not react with alcohol and adds a sophisticated touch while reflecting all the colours of the drink. Seal the lid before you slide the pitcher inside the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours. If you want to serve right away, prepare the cocktail 5-10 minutes before guests arrive and ensure to load the pitcher with ice.
