john@jmchilton.net %
cat problems/great-cocktails.mdx
Thinking about since 2024-11
What are some great cocktails?
Exploring the craft of cocktails - classics, variations, and the principles behind great drinks.
cocktailsfood-and-drink
The Question
What are some great cocktails?
Why It Matters
A well-made cocktail is a small pleasure that rewards attention and craft. Understanding what makes a drink work - balance, technique, quality ingredients - applies beyond the bar. Plus, it’s fun.
Current Thinking
See my cocktails page for current favorites and recipes.
Great cocktails share characteristics:
- Balance - Sweet, sour, strong, weak in harmony
- Quality ingredients - You taste what goes in
- Proper technique - Shaking vs stirring matters
- Presentation - The experience starts with the eyes
Open Subquestions
- What classics deserve more attention?
- How do you adapt recipes to available ingredients?
- What’s the minimum home bar for maximum range?
- How do seasonal ingredients change the cocktail calendar?