Learn About Spirits
Learn how to best serve spirits and explore our library of cocktail recipes to find new ways to enjoy your old favorites.
Uncover Spirits Basics with Us
The complete history of liquor is unknown. While it’s believed the first spirit was distilled in the 13th century, the first mention of various alcohol types has been found as early as 3500 BCE in Indian Sanskrit! Here we’ll help you discover the wide world of spirits — mixology vocabulary, different glassware shapes and cocktail recipes for every season.
Mixology Vocabulary
Cocktails have been around since the 1800s, with the first known guide published in 1862 by New York City bartender Jerry Thomas. Over the years, mixology’s developed a vocabulary all its own. Learn what these commonly used terms mean and sound like a pro the next time you order a drink.
Neat
An unmixed spirit served at room temperature in a rocks glass or snifter.
Straight Up
An unmixed spirit shaken or stirred with ice and strained into a stemmed cocktail glass.
On the Rocks
An unmixed spirit served over ice.
Dry
Use less vermouth than what’s called for in the recipe.
Wet
Use more vermouth than what’s called for in the recipe.
Perfect
Use equal parts sweet and dry vermouth.
Dirty
A martini style mixed with a splash of olive juice.
Float
Pour liquid gently over the back of a bar spoon so it lays on the top of the drink.
Master the art of mixology.
Bartenders aren’t the only ones who know how to make a great cocktail. Experiment with a few of our recipes at home, and soon you’ll be mixing it up with the best of them.
Glass Guide
Many spirit glasses are named after the drink that made them famous. Learn why the shape of each glass is particularly suited to the beverage it holds.