When it comes to cocktails, the garnish is just as important as the drink itself. In fact, a well-chosen one can elevate a cocktail from good to great. In this guide, we will discuss their importance and provide tips for selecting the perfect one for your drinks.
The Importance of First Impressions
Any bartender will tell you that first impressions are everything when it comes to cocktails. And what is the first thing you notice about them? The garnish! A well-crafted ornament can make a drink look more appealing and inviting, while a poorly chosen one can make it look unappetizing and even dangerous.
Think about it this way, would you rather drink a cocktail that is beautifully decorated with fresh fruit and herbs, or one that is topped with a wilted leaf and a piece of celery? The answer is clear. The more beautiful the decoration, the stronger our desire to drink it. Alternatively, if it is sad-looking, we tend to not want it anymore.
In addition to making a drink look more appealing, they can also add visual interest and intrigue. Have you ever been served a drink with an unusual garnish and found yourself wondering what it is and how it tastes? A good ornament will pique your curiosity and make you want to take a sip just to see what all the fuss is about.
The Importance of Flavor
Of course, the most important thing about a cocktail garnish is that it actually tastes good! A garnish should complement the flavors of the drink, not overwhelm them. For example, a citrus twist is a classic for many drinks because it adds a refreshing tartness that balances out the sweetness.
Similarly, a sprig of mint can brighten up a cocktail and make it taste more refreshing, while a cinnamon stick can add a warm, spicy flavor. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting with different garnishes to see what you like best.
Tips for Selecting the Perfect Cocktail Garnish
Now that we’ve discussed their importance, let’s talk about how to actually choose one. Here are three tips to help you select the perfect one:
Consider the Flavors of the Drink
As we mentioned earlier, a garnish should complement the flavors of the cocktail. So when you’re choosing one, think about what flavors would taste good with the drink. For example, if you’re making a fruity drink, consider adding a fresh fruit slice. If you’re making a minty one, consider adding a sprig of mint.
Consider the Shape of the Glass
The shape of the glass can also dictate what type to use. For instance, usually, a cocktail in a long, skinny glass is adorned with a corresponding garnish- like a lemon twist or cucumber slice. Conversely, wide glasses are typically decorated with something round, like an orange slice or a cherry.
Keep It Simple
When in doubt, less is more when it comes to garnishes. A simple citrus twist or a sprig of herbs can often be more effective than a more elaborate ornament. So when you’re choosing one ask yourself if it actually adds anything to the drink. If not, it’s probably best to leave it off.
Having the perfect cocktail garnish doesn’t mean anything if you don’t enjoy the drink itself. So be sure to choose the right cocktail that you actually like the taste of. Getting them has become one of the simplest things to do nowadays as companies like DRNXMYTH put them right at your doorstep, offering premade cocktails with the convenience of delivery. After all, the most important thing about it is that it tastes good!
