Ava Mitchell
Bio
Spirits writer and editor, focusing on cocktail culture and trends.
Stories (116)
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Discovering the Charm of Aged Cocktails: A Recipe and Guide
Aged cocktails are the secret weapon of bartenders who want to add depth, complexity, and smoothness to their drinks. By letting a cocktail rest in a barrel or a sealed container for days or weeks, the flavors marry and mellow, creating a rich, velvety texture and a harmonious blend of ingredients. This technique is especially popular for spirit-forward drinks that benefit from a touch of oxidation and wood influence.
By Ava Mitchell4 months ago in Proof
Mood Based Cocktails: Shake Up Your Feelings with Flavor
Cocktails aren’t just drinks—they’re mood makers. Whether you want to chill after a long day, spark some joy, or find a little comfort, the right cocktail can be your best companion. Imagine tailoring your drink to your mood, like a tasty mood ring in a glass. Let’s explore how ingredients, colors, and aromas can match what you’re feeling and lift your spirits.
By Ava Mitchell4 months ago in Proof
International Cocktail Trends: What’s Shaking Worldwide
Cocktails have always been a reflection of culture, creativity, and the times we live in. But in recent years, the global cocktail scene has exploded with fresh ideas, new ingredients, and innovative techniques. From Tokyo to Barcelona, bartenders are pushing boundaries, blending tradition with modern flair, and crafting drinks that tell stories beyond just flavors. Let’s dive into some of the hottest international cocktail trends shaking up bars around the world.
By Ava Mitchell4 months ago in Proof
Mastering the Art of Layered Shot Recipes
Layered shots are the show-stoppers of any cocktail party. They catch the eye with their vibrant colors stacked like a rainbow in a glass, teasing your taste buds with every sip. But making one isn’t just about pouring spirits willy-nilly. It’s a precision art that blends density, patience, and a steady hand.
By Ava Mitchell4 months ago in Proof
Vintage Cocktail List: Timeless Classics to Stir Your Spirit
Vintage cocktails have a charm that never fades. They bring back the golden era of mixology, where every drink was crafted with care and a dash of flair. These classic recipes have stood the test of time, captivating palates with their balanced flavors and elegant presentation. If you want to impress your guests or simply enjoy a taste of the past, a vintage cocktail list is your perfect guide.
By Ava Mitchell4 months ago in Proof
Spicy Cocktail Recipes to Heat Up Your Night
Spicy cocktails are the perfect way to add a thrilling kick to your drink. They balance bold heat with refreshing flavors that keep you coming back for more. Whether you like a mild tingle or full-on fire, there’s a spicy mix waiting for your taste buds. Here’s a cocktail recipe that brings together fresh jalapeño heat, citrus brightness, and smooth tequila for a truly addictive experience.
By Ava Mitchell4 months ago in Proof
Best Gin Cocktails to Shake and Stir Tonight
Gin is one of those spirits that never goes out of style. Its botanical notes and crisp dryness make it a fantastic base for a wide range of cocktails. Whether you prefer something light and refreshing or a drink with depth and complexity, gin has a way of fitting the mood. Let’s explore some of the best gin cocktails you can whip up at home, plus one original recipe that will surprise your friends.
By Ava Mitchell4 months ago in Proof
Amaro Cocktails: Bitter, Bold, and Beyond
If cocktails were a high school clique, amaro would be that enigmatic rebel who’s a little bitter, a little sweet, and totally unforgettable. This Italian herbal liqueur has been quietly stealing the spotlight in the bar scene, bringing complexity and charm to cocktails from New York to Naples. If you’ve been sticking to your standard sweet or sour sips, it’s time to crash the amaro party.
By Ava Mitchell4 months ago in Proof
Clear Ice Cocktails: The Coolest Way to Serve Your Drinks
Alright, folks, before we get cracking, let’s have a heart-to-heart about ice. Not just any ice, but clear ice. You know the kind — that pristine, crystal-clear chunk that looks like it was carved by the gods of chill themselves. It's not just pretty; it’s the secret weapon in any bartender’s arsenal. If you’ve ever bitten into a cloudy, half-frozen block of ice and grimaced, you know what I’m talking about.
By Ava Mitchell4 months ago in Proof
Cocktail Garnish Ideas That Will Make You the Star of Any Party
Imagine you’ve just crafted a cocktail so smooth, so delicious, it practically whispers ‘drink me.’ But wait! Your masterpiece is lacking — it needs that final oomph that makes people go ‘Whoa, did you make this?’ Cue the cocktail garnish.
By Ava Mitchell4 months ago in Proof
Daiquiri vs Mojito: The Ultimate Rum Cocktail Showdown
Ah, the eternal question in the world of rum lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike: Daiquiri or Mojito? These two classic Cuban concoctions have been duking it out for decades, quietly demanding your attention at every beach bar, tiki lounge, and cocktail party. As a bartender who's shaken, stirred, muddled, and tasted my way through countless rounds, I’m here to spill the rum on what makes each of these liquid legends so special—and maybe sway you to make one your next go-to.
By Ava Mitchell4 months ago in Proof
The Language of Garnish: When the Details Speak Louder Than Words
A single twist of lemon. A sprig of thyme set just so. The way a dehydrated blood orange slice leans against the glass, catching the light. These are not just decorative choices — they are a language. In the world of cocktails, where each drink is an ephemeral creation, the garnish becomes a lasting signature. It’s the final brushstroke that says: this was made for you.
By Ava Mitchell6 months ago in Proof
