Creating An Intoxicating Potion

The art of mixing drinks that please the eye as well as the palate is believed to have originated in the middle ages, when people were fascinated by infusions and sagacious compositions. This practice has continued, becoming more specialised through time, and has adapted to modern world to become an art that has been adopted by mixologists and bartenders. The first complex cocktails were invented in the US and England in the 19th century. In the 2000s creativity has become the watchword for mixologists and bartenders. Ashok Malkani takes a look at the present bar scenario and the various aspects of bartending and mixologists and also about the reason for the minimal number of female bartenders as compared to the males.

- Ashok Malkani

Weaving magic to create stunning concoctions as per the desires of those who not only want to feel a little tipsy but also want a creation that will appeal to the eye, be appetizing to sate your taste buds and flavor some to please your chemoreception, calls for an artisan behind the bar.

Some call this magician as a mixologist while others revere him as their favourite bartender. But why are there two terminological phrases being used – mixologist and bartender - for the men behind the bar? What is the difference between the two?

Mariki Sayles, Mixologist of Invincible Boudoir and Jardin, Bandra, Mumbai, disclosed, “The term ‘mixologist’ is quite old, in fact dating to the 1800s. During the 19th century often times bartenders were referred to as mixologists. I think in today’s popular culture many will say that the mixologist is dedicated to the study of the drink and the bartender is dedicated to the tending of the bar which means not only creating a spectacular cocktail but most importantly creating a superior experience.”

Dinesh Babu, Director of Beverages, The Westin Pune Koregaon Park, states, “The term, bartending dates back to the 1800s, while mixology dates back to 1800 to 1900. Many people never bothered about distinguishing between the two, but with the professional space pointing out that they are two different things, as mixology is considered an advanced degree to bartending. Mixology has often been considered a natural extension of bartending as it is more of a superior title that shows that a mixologist can be likened to a senior bartender.”