Distilled from fermented grain mash (corn, rye, barley) and aged in wood. This includes Bourbon (sweet/oak), Scotch (smoky/peaty), and Irish Whiskey (smooth/mellow).
Distilled wine or fruit mash. Cognac is the most famous version, known for its rich, velvety grape essence. Quick Pro Tips
For cocktails, always use fresh-squeezed lime or lemon juice. The bottled stuff has a metallic aftertaste that ruins a good spirit. Distilled from fermented grain mash (corn, rye, barley)
Shake drinks with citrus, egg whites, or cream (to aerate). Stir drinks that are 100% spirits (like a Negroni) to maintain a silky texture.
A heavy-bottomed "rocks" glass is for sipping neat or with ice; a stemmed "coupe" or "martini" glass keeps your hand from warming up a chilled drink. Cognac is the most famous version, known for
Made from the blue agave plant in specific regions of Mexico. Blanco is unaged and earthy; Reposado and Añejo are aged in oak for smoother, caramel notes.
Distilled from sugarcane or molasses. Light rums are for Mojitos; dark, spiced, or "funky" Jamaican rums offer deeper, tropical complexity. Shake drinks with citrus, egg whites, or cream (to aerate)
Essentially botanical vodka. It’s infused with juniper berries and various herbs, ranging from "piney" London Drys to floral modern styles.