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Garnishes

Garnishes

Add the finishing touch of elegance and flavor to your cocktails with our curated selection of garnishes. From the zesty zest of citrus twists to the sweet allure of maraschino cherries, our assortment of olives, cocktail onions, fresh berries, herb sprigs, and edible flowers will elevate your drink presentation to an exquisite level.

citrus-fruits

Citrus Twists

Citrus twists are thin strips of the peel from various citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges. These peels contain essential oils that hold the essence of the fruit's flavor and aroma. When you twist the peel over a cocktail, the oils are released, imparting a burst of citrusy goodness to the drink.

Why we use Citrus Twists on Cocktails?

Beyond the aesthetic appeal, citrus twists offer several benefits to cocktails:

  • Aromatic Enhancement: The oils in the peel release enticing aromas, intensifying the drinking experience.

  • Balancing Flavors: Citrus twists can balance the sweetness or bitterness in a cocktail, creating a harmonious taste.

  • Visual Appeal: The vibrant colors of citrus twists add an eye-catching element to cocktails, making them more enticing.

How to make the Perfect Citrus Twist

To create a perfect citrus twist, follow these steps:

  1. Select a fresh and unblemished citrus fruit of your choice.

  2. Using a sharp knife or a channel knife, cut a thin strip of the peel, approximately 2-3 inches long.

  3. Be cautious not to include the bitter white pith, as it can negatively impact the cocktail's taste.

  4. Hold the peel over the cocktail and gently twist it to release the aromatic oils.

  5. You can also rub the twist around the glass rim for an extra burst of flavor and aroma.

Pairing Citrus Twists with Cocktails

Citrus twists pair exceptionally well with various cocktails, enhancing their taste and presentation. Here are some classic pairings to inspire you:

  • Martini: A lemon twist adds a zesty kick to the traditional gin or vodka Martini.

  • Negroni: An orange twist complements the bitter-sweet flavors of Campari and vermouth.

  • Margarita: A lime twist brings out the refreshing notes of tequila and citrus.

  • Gimlet: A classic lime twist perfectly enhances the tartness of this gin-based cocktail.

maraschino-cherries

Maraschino Cherries

Maraschino cherries are a type of cherry that undergoes a unique preservation process. Originally, they were made from Marasca cherries, a variety native to Croatia. Today, modern Maraschino cherries are typically made from sweet cherries, such as the Royal Ann or Rainier variety. The cherries are brined in a solution of sugar, water, and Maraschino liqueur or cherry juice. This process imparts a distinct almond-like flavor and a bright red hue to the cherries.

Classic vs. Modern Maraschino Cherries

In the past, Maraschino cherries were commonly soaked in a liqueur made from Marasca cherries and preserved with their pits intact. Today, the pits are typically removed to enhance the eating experience. Moreover, modern commercial Maraschino cherries often contain artificial colors and flavors, so seeking out premium or artisanal varieties can offer a more authentic and delicious addition to your cocktails.

How to Select Quality Maraschino Cherries

When choosing Maraschino cherries for your cocktails, opt for brands that use natural colors and flavors without artificial additives. Look for cherries preserved in Maraschino liqueur or real cherry juice for the best flavor profile. Artisanal or homemade Maraschino cherries often provide a superior taste and appearance compared to mass-produced options.

Using Maraschino Cherries in Cocktails

​Maraschino cherries are a versatile cocktail garnish, and their delightful sweetness pairs well with a wide range of spirits. Here are some classic cocktails that are enhanced by the addition of Maraschino cherries:

  • Old Fashioned: Muddle a Maraschino cherry along with orange slices and bitters for a modern twist on this classic cocktail.

  • Manhattan: Garnish your Manhattan with a Maraschino cherry to complement the richness of the whiskey and vermouth.

  • Whiskey Sour: Drop a Maraschino cherry into your Whiskey Sour for a burst of sweetness at the end of each sip.

  • Tiki Cocktails: Maraschino cherries find a perfect home in tropical tiki drinks, balancing the flavors of rum and tropical fruits.

olives

Olives

Olives are a classic and savory choice that can add depth and sophistication to your drinks. Whether you prefer a classic Martini or a tangy Dirty Martini, olives have a way of enhancing the flavors of your favorite libations. Let's explore the world of olives in mixology and discover how these little wonders can transform your cocktails.

What are Cocktail Olives?

Cocktail olives are typically green or black olives that have been cured, brined, or marinated to preserve their texture and flavor. They come in a variety of styles, ranging from plain and pitted to stuffed with various fillings like pimentos, blue cheese, or garlic. Each type of olive can impart unique flavors and aromas to your cocktail.

Classic Olives for Cocktails

Green olives, such as the Spanish Queen or Sicilian Castelvetrano varieties, are popular choices for classic cocktails like the Martini and the Gibson. These olives have a mild, slightly tangy flavor that pairs well with a variety of spirits, making them a versatile garnish for many drinks.

Black Olives in Mixology

Black olives, such as Kalamata or Moroccan oil-cured olives, offer a different taste experience. These olives have a stronger and more intense flavor compared to green olives, making them ideal for cocktails with bolder spirits like whiskey or mezcal.

Pairing Olives with Cocktails

Olives are an excellent garnish for a variety of cocktails, enhancing the overall taste and presentation. Here are some popular pairings:

  • Martini: A green olive or two adds a subtle savory note to the classic gin or vodka Martini.

  • Bloody Mary: Garnish this spicy cocktail with a skewer of olives, celery, and a wedge of lime.

  • Gimlet: A black olive complements the herbaceous flavors of gin in this simple and refreshing cocktail.

  • Mediterranean Cocktails: Olives naturally pair well with cocktails inspired by Mediterranean flavors and ingredients.

cocktail-onions

Cocktail Onions are a small yet impactful garnish that can add a delightful tangy kick to your favorite libations. These pickled onions are a classic addition to iconic cocktails like the Gibson and the French Pearl, bringing a burst of flavor and a touch of sophistication. Let's delve into the world of cocktail onions and discover how they can elevate your mixology game.

Cocktail Onions

What are Cocktail Onions?

Cocktail onions, also known as pickled onions or pearl onions, are small onions that undergo a pickling process. They are carefully selected for their mild sweetness and pickled in a brine solution made of vinegar, water, sugar, and various spices. The pickling process infuses the onions with a tangy and slightly sweet taste, making them a distinctive and appealing garnish for cocktails.

Classic Cocktails Featuring Cocktail Onions

Two classic cocktails that prominently feature cocktail onions are:

  • Gibson: A close relative of the classic Martini, the Gibson is garnished with one or two cocktail onions instead of the traditional olive or lemon twist. The onions add a sharp contrast to the smoothness of the gin and vermouth, elevating the cocktail's complexity and visual appeal.

  • French Pearl: A lesser-known gem, the French Pearl combines gin, Lillet Blanc, and elderflower liqueur, garnished with a skewer of cocktail onions. This cocktail offers a delightful interplay of floral and tangy flavors, providing a unique and sophisticated taste experience.

Homemade Cocktail Onions

For a personalized touch, consider making your own cocktail onions. Start with sweet onions, such as pearl onions, and follow a simple pickling recipe using vinegar, water, sugar, and spices like cloves and peppercorns. Homemade cocktail onions allow you to experiment with flavors, resulting in a pickled garnish tailored to your taste preferences.

Cocktail Onion Pairing Tips

Cocktail onions work exceptionally well with gin-based cocktails due to their complementary flavors. The tangy and slightly sweet notes of the onions harmonize with the herbal and botanical characteristics of gin, creating a balanced and delightful taste profile.

fresh-berries

Fresh Berries are a delightful treasure trove of colors, flavors, and aromas that can elevate your cocktails to the next level. These juicy and luscious fruits, including strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries, bring a burst of natural sweetness and visual appeal to your libations. Each berry also has its own season, adding an exciting touch of seasonality to your drinks. Whether you're crafting classic cocktails or experimenting with innovative concoctions, fresh berries as a garnish can create a truly unforgettable drinking experience. Let's explore the wonder of fresh berries in mixology and discover how they add a refreshing, inclusive, and seasonal touch to your favorite drinks.

Fresh Berries

Berry Types and Seasons

The beauty of fresh berries lies in their variety, each contributing its unique character to the mix:

  • Strawberries: These plump and juicy red berries infuse your cocktails with a delicate sweetness and a hint of tartness. In season from late spring to early summer, strawberries bring the essence of sunny days to your drinks.

  • Raspberries: Bursting with flavor and a vibrant red color, raspberries lend a touch of sophistication and elegance to your drinks. Enjoy them in their peak season from late spring to early summer.

  • Blueberries: These small but mighty berries bring a delightful tanginess to your cocktails. Blueberries' versatility ensures they complement a wide range of spirits, and they're in season from late spring to late summer.

  • Blackberries: Rich and sumptuous, blackberries add a deep purple hue and a nuanced taste that captivates the senses. You can enjoy them from mid-summer to early fall.

Berries in Classic Cocktails

Fresh berries find their place in both timeless classics and modern masterpieces:

  • Strawberry Daiquiri: A refreshing twist on the classic Daiquiri, combining rum, lime juice, and fresh strawberries to create a tangy and invigorating delight. Best enjoyed during strawberry season.

  • Raspberry Collins: A berry-infused version of the classic Tom Collins, where raspberries add an alluring touch of sweetness and complexity. Perfect for raspberry season.

  • Blueberry Mojito: Fresh blueberries join forces with mint and rum in a Mojito, elevating this iconic cocktail to new heights of refreshing splendor. Ideal for blueberry season.

herb-springs

Herb Sprigs

Herb Sprigs are nature's aromatic wonders, generously sharing their scents to enhance your cocktail experience. Each herb brings its unique personality, enticing your taste buds and olfactory senses. From the invigorating aroma of mint to the earthy essence of rosemary and the delightful peppery notes of basil, herb sprigs offer an inclusive range of options to satisfy diverse tastes.

A Symphony of Herb Sprigs

The beauty of herb sprigs lies in their diversity, each herb contributing its own unique character to the mix:

  • Mint: With its invigorating and cooling properties, mint is a classic and versatile herb that pairs beautifully with a wide range of cocktails. From Mojitos to Juleps, mint sprigs add a refreshing and delightful aroma, transporting you to an oasis of flavors.

  • Rosemary: This aromatic herb infuses your cocktails with a woody and pine-like fragrance, evoking images of lush gardens and rustic charm. Ideal for drinks with gin, vodka, or whiskey bases, rosemary sprigs elevate your libations to a sophisticated level.

  • Basil: With its sweet and slightly peppery flavor, basil brings a delightful surprise to cocktails. Whether muddled in a cocktail shaker or used as a captivating garnish, basil sprigs add a touch of elegance and herbaceousness to your libations.

Herb sprigs harmonize seamlessly with classic cocktails and spark inspiration for new creations:

  • Mint Julep: An iconic cocktail that celebrates the refreshing essence of mint, combined with bourbon, sugar, and crushed ice. Sip on the timeless charm of the South with every mint-infused sip.

  • Rosemary Gin Fizz: A contemporary twist on the classic Gin Fizz, where rosemary adds an aromatic and sophisticated dimension, elevating this bubbly delight to new heights.

  • Basil Smash: A delightful and herbaceous cocktail that celebrates the fresh and peppery flavor of basil, combined with gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Unleash your creativity with this basil-infused masterpiece.

Classic Cocktails with Herb Sprigs

edible-flowers

Edible flowers are nature's exquisite gift to home mixologists, offering a sensory journey that indulges both the palate and the eyes. Each bloom carries its unique essence, from subtle floral notes to mild herbal undertones, enriching the flavor profiles of your homemade cocktails. Beyond their delightful taste, edible flowers bring a visual feast to your libations, adding an element of sophistication and enchantment that will impress your guests.

Edible Flowers

Edible Blooms Throughout the Seasons

The beauty of edible flowers lies not only in their diversity but also in the seasonal delight they bring to your cocktails:

  • Spring Blooms: Embrace the freshness of spring with delightful blossoms like violets, lilacs, and dandelions, adding a burst of color and delicate flavors to your cocktails.

  • Summer Beauties: In the warmth of summer, indulge in the vibrant hues and flavors of roses, lavender, and hibiscus, bringing tropical notes to your homemade libations.

  • Autumn Wonders: As the leaves change, welcome the aromatic and cozy essence of chrysanthemums, calendula, and pansies, creating cocktails that reflect the season's charm.

  • Winter Elegance: During the colder months, find comfort in the mild flavors of violas, carnations, and jasmine, adding a touch of elegance to your holiday concoctions.

Edible Flowers with Classic Cocktails

Edible flowers are equally at home in classic cocktails and innovative homemade masterpieces:

  • Rose Martini: A contemporary twist on the classic Martini, featuring a delicate rose petal as a garnish, embodying elegance in every sip.

  • Lavender Lemonade: A refreshing mocktail or cocktail, blending lavender-infused lemonade with a sprig of lavender for a sensory delight that you can enjoy at home.

  • Hibiscus Margarita: A tropical and tangy twist on the traditional Margarita, featuring hibiscus-infused tequila and a hibiscus bloom as a garnish for a homemade fiesta.

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