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August 10, 2022 4 min read

 

If you've ever gone to a bar, you've definitely heard a bartender describe themselves as a mixologist. It makes sense that people frequently use the two terms interchangeably. Both mixologists and bartenders do many of the same tasks. However, there are a few noteworthy differences.

Let's take a look at what mixology is and how it differs from bartending.

 

What Is Mixology?

 A person pouring drinks into glasses from a mixer

Credit: Envato Elements/ twenty20photos

 

Mixology is widely acknowledged as a thorough approach to the art and practice of mixing cocktails.

In cocktail culture, the word mixologist refers to a person who has researched the background of drinks and mixed cocktails. They understand the importance of each ingredient that is added to a drink and the effects it has on the taste. A master mixologist combines cutting-edge ideas with collected knowledge to create unique drink recipes. While some of these specialists may serve cocktails to customers, their major job is to craft cocktails served at the bar.

They are the chefs of the cocktail world. These people know every spirit inside and out, even the incredibly rare ones. A mixologist's major area of expertise is creating extraordinary cocktails, and they can make you a drink that you will never forget.

 

Duties of a Mixologist

 

These are some of their job duties:

 

  • Creating a unique twist to a traditional cocktail
  • Utilizing unconventional bar equipment to produce innovative cocktail recipes
  • Putting things together to create fresh and new cocktail recipes
  • Keeping up with emerging cocktail trends
  • Working with other mixologists to acquire new skills
  • Managing bartenders
  • Creating comprehensive, individualized cocktail menus for a venue, event, or cocktail bar

 

What Is Bartending?

 A bartender making cocktails in fancy glasses

Credit: Envato Elements/ biasciolialessandro

 

Bartending is the practice of serving alcoholic drinks in a licensed establishment.

A head bartender is someone who serves drinks behind bars. They have extensive beverage knowledge and are familiar with all the scotches, wines, and beers kept behind their bar. They are comfortable behind any kind of bar and are skilled at entertaining customers. One of the key distinctions between a bartender and a mixologist is that the former will ensure that you will have a fun and memorable experience. Some of the core skills required by a bartender may not always be acquired or used by a mixologist.

 

Duties of a Bartender:

 

In addition to making drinks, a bartender must:

 

  • Learn the names of the most common and well-liked drinks.
  • Provide service to several people at once
  • Manage the finances and bar stock
  • Keep crowds under control at a crowded bar
  • Possess the best "people skills"

 

Are All Bartenders Also Mixologists?

 

A mixologist using a cocktail mixer to mix drinks

Credit: Envato Elements/ vladans

 

The general consensus is that all mixologists are bartenders, but not all bartenders are mixologists. According to this, mixologists are elevated bartenders who have progressed beyond simply preparing mixed drinks to produce one-of-a-kind works of art. The term "mixologist" is more of an honorary title given to a particularly skilled bartender who has shown exceptional talent, and excellence in mixing drinks.

Mixologists specialize in the study of cocktails known as "mixology," which frequently calls for a specialist understanding of the molecular characteristics of the numerous ingredients that go into making a cocktail. They frequently look at an edible ingredient and try to figure out what incredible concoctions they can create.

Bartenders, on the other hand, are quite skilled at serving drinks of all kinds, from traditional mixed drinks to sophisticated artisan drinks, not to mention the occasional wine or beer. They are also experts at handling crowds. Even though mixologists are experts at making one-of-a-kind drinks, they cannot handle the pressure of pouring drinks at a busy club or bar on a Friday night.

 

Has Mixology Changed the Art of Bartending?

 A person pouring a cocktail into a number 8 snooker ball glass

Credit: Envato Elements/ DC_Studio

 

If you work as a bartender, you might feel a little concerned about the emergence of mixology. This is due to the perception that a mixologist has a more specialized position behind the bar as a result of their proficiency in drink blending. However, this has not led to the extinction of the art of bartending. Even if you are a bartender, you can perform activities that are commonly associated with mixology. No matter what your position, both are crucial behind the bar. Both bartenders and mixologists mix drinks. The only difference between them is in their respective levels of professionalism and class.

 

Summary

 

The main difference between a mixologist and a bartender is that mixologists serve drinks whereas bartenders serve people. Whether you are a mixologist or a bartender, you will need a professional bartending kit to make cocktails and serve beverages.

Pepe Nero provides a complete bartending kit for both amateur and skilled mixologists. Our comprehensive bartender kit is a 27-piece set that contains everything from the most basic accessory to a more specialized piece. Shop with us today!

 


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