Mixology

What does mixology mean?

The word combines the verb "to mix" with the ending "-ology", the study of something. Mixology is literally the study of mixing drinks. The term is older than its current hype: in the United States, "mixologist" appeared in print as early as the 19th century, but the word only became a big buzzword with the cocktail renaissance of the 2000s.

Today, mixology describes the curious perspective on cocktails: not just working through a recipe, but understanding why it works.

What is behind the term?

• Ingredient knowledge: What defines a gin, when is fresh acid worth it, what exactly is oleo saccharum?
• Balance: bringing spirit, sweetness, acidity and bitterness into equilibrium, measured with a jigger, controlled through dilution.
• Technique: the shaker makes texture, the mixing glass makes silk, the built drink stays still.
• History: the families from sour to rickey and their roots, from punch to spritz.

Mixologist or bartender?

The short answer: one is the profession, the other is the view of the work in the glass. A bartender can do everything: welcome guests, build many drinks at once during a full rush, keep the whole menu in their head. Mixology describes the creative and analytical side of the job: developing recipes, understanding flavour nuances, reinterpreting classics.

The term divides the bar scene. For some, "mixologist" is a badge of honour, for others it sounds like showing off. Our take: the word is only as good as the curiosity behind it. Anyone who asks why a drink tastes the way it does is doing exactly what mixology means.

At our lounge

Whether you call it mixology or simply good craftsmanship: behind every drink on our menu sits the question of why it works. Ask our team about your favourite drink, we are happy to tell you its story.