World Cocktail Day 13 May

World Cocktail Day 13 May

cocktails in a collage lots of colours

The original definition of a cocktail was quite specific and defined as an alcoholic drink, consisting of a spirit mixed with bitters, water, and sugar. This was later modified to any alcoholic drink made by mixing a spirit or spirits with other ingredients such as a liqueur or fruit juice and adding a garnish.


The 3 main elements of a cocktail are:

The Base

The base ingredient is typically a distilled liquor like rum tequila, vodka, whiskey or gin.

The Modifier

The modifier is a term used by mixologists to describe the complementary ingredients added to provide or enhance the desired flavour. This includes fruit juice, cream, soda, spirits, wines and more.

The Garnish

A key finishing piece for any cocktail and often a change of garnish can redefine the cocktail name. Think olives, lemons, citrus spirals and candied orange wheels.

Cocktails are not only a big drawcard for customers, but they are a lucrative product to offer on your menu. They can offer a yield of 75% margin because lower pour cost=higher profit margins.

 Southern Hospitality have an extensive range of cocktail glasses to serve all your customer favourites from mojitos to pornstar martinis, pina coladas to aperol spritz. Our extensive barware range will excite rookie bar staff and experienced mixologists.