Ava Mitchell
Bio
Spirits writer and editor, focusing on cocktail culture and trends.
Stories (122)
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Cocktails on Tap: Why Bars Are Moving to Draft Service
In the world of mixology, where flair and freshness often take center stage, the idea of cocktails on tap might seem counterintuitive. Isn’t craft all about the personalized shake, the precise muddle, the theatrical pour? Surprisingly, more bars — from high-volume nightclubs to high-end lounges — are embracing draft cocktail systems. And they’re doing it not to cut corners, but to elevate quality, efficiency, and guest experience.
By Ava Mitchell8 months ago in Proof
Festive Cocktails with a Cultural Twist for Every Celebration
Celebrations around the world are steeped in culture — and the drinks that accompany them often carry just as much heritage and meaning as the food or music. Whether you’re honoring your own roots or simply looking to bring something new to the table, festive cocktails with a cultural twist are a delicious way to travel the globe without leaving your home.
By Ava Mitchell8 months ago in Proof
The Ultimate Halloween-Themed Cocktail Guide
Halloween isn’t just for costumes and candy anymore — it’s also the perfect excuse to unleash your inner mixologist and create some hauntingly delicious cocktails. Whether you’re throwing a full-blown costume bash or enjoying a cozy night in with scary movies, Halloween-themed drinks can set the mood and spark conversation.
By Ava Mitchell8 months ago in Proof
Romantic Cocktails for a Perfect Date Night In
Planning a romantic evening at home? You don’t need a five-star restaurant to create a memorable experience. With a little intention, the right lighting, and the perfect cocktails, a date night in can feel even more special than a night out. Whether it’s your first date or your anniversary, sharing a beautifully made drink adds an intimate, sensual touch to the evening.
By Ava Mitchell8 months ago in Proof
Instagram-Worthy Cocktails: Tips for Styling and Shooting Your Drinks
In today’s social media era, a well-styled cocktail isn’t just for drinking — it’s for sharing. Instagram has become a hub for cocktail enthusiasts, home bartenders, and professionals alike to showcase their creativity. But crafting a photogenic cocktail takes more than just mixing ingredients. With the right lighting, composition, and garnish, your drink can steal the spotlight and rack up the likes.
By Ava Mitchell8 months ago in Proof
How Gen Z Is Changing the Way We Drink Cocktails
Cocktail culture has always evolved with each generation, but few have disrupted it as rapidly and profoundly as Gen Z. Born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, this generation brings new values, habits, and expectations to the bar — quite literally. Their approach to drinking is reshaping everything from ingredients to aesthetics, driving bartenders and brands to rethink how cocktails are created and consumed.
By Ava Mitchell8 months ago in Proof
Eastern European Spirits in Modern Mixology
For years, Eastern European spirits were often overshadowed by Western staples like whiskey, rum, and gin. But today, the tide is turning. Bartenders and mixologists around the world are rediscovering the depth, complexity, and cultural heritage of traditional Eastern European liquors — and they’re using them to craft bold, exciting cocktails.
By Ava Mitchell8 months ago in Proof
Tropical Escapes: Island-Inspired Drinks to Make at Home
There’s something magical about tropical cocktails — the way they transport you instantly to a white-sand beach, the sound of waves in the background, a warm breeze carrying notes of pineapple, coconut, and citrus. Even if you're nowhere near the ocean, mixing up an island-inspired drink at home can feel like a mini vacation in a glass.
By Ava Mitchell8 months ago in Proof
Iconic Cocktails from 10 Different Countries
Cocktails are more than just beverages — they’re cultural ambassadors. In every corner of the world, you’ll find a signature drink that tells a story about local flavors, traditions, and history. Whether it’s the bitter complexity of a Negroni from Italy or the sun-soaked citrus of a Brazilian Caipirinha, iconic cocktails can transport your senses with a single sip.
By Ava Mitchell8 months ago in Proof
How to Make Your Own Cocktail Syrups and Shrubs
One of the most effective ways to make your cocktails stand out is by going beyond store-bought mixers and crafting your own. Homemade syrups and shrubs not only offer better flavor and freshness but also give you creative control over every detail in your glass. With a few ingredients and basic kitchen tools, you can start experimenting with bold flavor combinations that reflect your personal taste.
By Ava Mitchell8 months ago in Proof
Using Tea in Cocktails: Recipes for a Refined Twist
Tea isn’t just for cozy afternoons or traditional ceremonies — it’s quickly becoming a star ingredient in the cocktail world. From smoky lapsang souchong to delicate jasmine green tea, bartenders are turning to tea to add unique layers of flavor, subtle bitterness, and even caffeine to their creations.
By Ava Mitchell8 months ago in Proof
The Easiest 3-Ingredient Cocktails That Still Impress
Think you need a cabinet full of exotic liqueurs and fancy syrups to make a great cocktail? Think again. Some of the most iconic and delicious drinks in the world are made with just three ingredients. These minimalist cocktails are quick to make, easy to remember, and perfect for impressing guests without the stress.
By Ava Mitchell8 months ago in Proof
