Ethan Chen
Bio
Cocktail chemist and author, known for his scientific approach to mixology. He combines molecular gastronomy with traditional cocktail techniques to create unique drinking experiences.
Stories (115)
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Prohibition Cocktails: The Spirit of the Roaring Twenties
The Prohibition era in the United States (1920–1933) was a wild time for cocktails. With alcohol banned, bartenders got creative, mixing drinks that masked harsh flavors and used whatever ingredients were on hand. These cocktails were often strong, flavorful, and sometimes a little sneaky. Today, prohibition cocktails are celebrated for their history and bold taste. Let’s dive into some classic styles and an original recipe inspired by those clandestine days.
By Ethan Chen6 months ago in Proof
Common Mojito Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Mojitos are a classic Cuban cocktail that dance on your palate with their refreshing blend of mint, lime, sugar, rum, and soda water. But even this simple beauty can be ruined if you don’t know the tricks behind it. Let’s dive into the most common mojito mistakes and how to avoid them, so you can sip the perfect minty delight every time.
By Ethan Chen6 months ago in Proof
The Japanese Highball: Crisp, Clean, and Timeless
The Japanese Highball is a marvel of simplicity and elegance. It’s not just a drink; it’s a ritual that celebrates the purity of whiskey and sparkling water with a precision that only Japanese bartenders can master. The result is a cocktail that’s refreshing, light, and perfect for any occasion.
By Ethan Chen6 months ago in Proof
What Makes a Drink ‘Craft’?
Craft cocktails have become the toast of bars worldwide, but what exactly makes a drink “craft”? It’s more than just tossing some alcohol and mixers together. A craft cocktail is an expression of care, tradition, and creativity, turning a simple drink into an experience.
By Ethan Chen6 months ago in Proof
Syrup Alchemy: Crafting Your Own Cocktail Syrups Like a Pro
Ah, cocktail syrups — the unsung heroes in the back pocket of bartenders everywhere. These sticky little delights elevate drinks from meh to magnificent, turning your humble home bar into a five-star speakeasy. If you thought syrup was just a sugary afterthought, buckle up. We’re diving deep into the world of cocktail syrups, where magic happens in a small saucepan.
By Ethan Chen6 months ago in Proof
The Ultimate Cocktail Glass Guide: Sip in Style Like a Pro
Alright, fellow cocktail lovers, let’s get one thing straight: the glass you drink from isn’t just a boring container. Nope, it’s like the red carpet your liquid star walks on. Imagine serving a glorious Manhattan in a chipped old mug. Crime, right? The right glass elevates the flavor, the aesthetics, and your entire drinking experience. It’s science, art, and a little bit of magic.
By Ethan Chen6 months ago in Proof
Crafting Your Signature Cocktail: Ideas to Impress and Refresh
Picture this: you’re hosting a party, the music’s on point, snacks are laid out like a masterpiece, and your guests are mingling, but something’s missing — that wow factor. Enter the signature cocktail. A drink that screams your style, your vibe, your flavor. It’s more than just a beverage; it’s a conversation starter, a memory maker, and sometimes, a lifesaver when you’re trying to impress that one person you’ve been eyeing all night.
By Ethan Chen6 months ago in Proof
Shake It Up: Easy Cocktail Recipes for Everyday Fun
Welcome to the ultimate guide on easy cocktail recipes that will make your home bartending game stronger than your Monday morning coffee! Whether you're a seasoned shaker or new to the world of mixology, these recipes are designed to be quick, simple, and downright delicious. Because who has time to complicate things when you're dreaming of that perfect sip?
By Ethan Chen6 months ago in Proof
Dirty Martini Meaning: Why This Classic Cocktail Is More Than Just a Messy Glass
Pull up a stool, folks, because we're diving into the deliciously mysterious world of the Dirty Martini. If you've ever asked yourself, ""What exactly is a dirty martini?"" or thought it might be just a sloppy drink that fell face-first into the olive brine, you’re in for a treat. As your resident bartender-influencer with a penchant for storytelling and shimmery cocktail shakers, I’m here to pour out the truth behind this iconic cocktail’s meaning, history, and how to make one that’ll have your guests raising their glasses in pure delight.
By Ethan Chen6 months ago in Proof
Rediscovering Forgotten Cocktails: Liquid Time Machines Worth Sipping
Picture this: you walk into a dimly lit bar, the air thick with jazz, and instead of ordering your usual Old Fashioned or Margarita, you ask the bartender, ""What’s a forgotten cocktail on your menu?"" Suddenly, you’re transported back decades, swirling around flavors that time almost forgot. Welcome to the world of forgotten cocktails — those tantalizing, often overlooked liquid gems that deserve a second chance in the spotlight.
By Ethan Chen6 months ago in Proof
To Serve and To Witness: The Dual Role of the Bartender
There’s a moment—subtle, often unnoticed—when a bartender places a drink in front of someone and pauses. It’s not just about whether the garnish is straight or the glass is clean. It’s about reading the guest. That glance, that breath between service and silence, reveals one of the most underappreciated truths of the profession: bartenders are not just there to serve. They’re also there to witness.
By Ethan Chen7 months ago in Proof
Repetition and Reverence: The Meditative Nature of Shaking a Drink
The motion of shaking a cocktail isn’t just functional—it’s ritualistic. Each precise movement, from the grip to the arc of the shake, becomes its own kind of meditation. Like the repetitive chants of a mantra or the brushstrokes of a calligrapher, shaking a drink engages body and mind in a synchronized effort. In a world that glorifies speed, the bartender’s deliberate, rhythmic shaking offers a moment of stillness in motion—a space where attention sharpens and everything else falls away.
By Ethan Chen7 months ago in Proof
