Ava Mitchell
Bio
Spirits writer and editor, focusing on cocktail culture and trends.
Stories (122)
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Bitter Flavor Psychology: Why We Crave the Bite
Bitter flavors have a curious place in our taste universe. Unlike sweet or salty, bitterness often triggers a cautious reaction in the brain — it’s nature’s warning sign for toxins and poisons. Yet, millions of people worldwide actively seek out bitter tastes in food and drinks, from black coffee to bitter greens to complex cocktails. What’s going on inside our minds and bodies when we crave that sharp, biting flavor?
By Ava Mitchellabout a month ago in Proof
Mastering Your Home Bar Night Routine
There’s something magical about a home bar night routine. It’s not just about mixing drinks; it’s about creating a vibe, a ritual that transforms an ordinary evening into a mini celebration. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or hosting a few friends, having a smooth, enjoyable routine can make all the difference.
By Ava Mitchellabout a month ago in Proof
Cocktail Concept Rejection: Why Some Ideas Don’t Make the Cut
Every bartender and mixologist has had it happen: a brilliant cocktail concept that sounded amazing in theory but just didn’t work out in practice. Cocktail concept rejection is part of the creative process behind the bar. It’s the art of knowing when an idea, no matter how clever or trendy, needs to be shelved or rethought before it hits the glass.
By Ava Mitchellabout a month ago in Proof
Mindful Cocktails: Sip with Intention and Flavor
In a world that moves fast, mindful cocktails invite us to slow down and truly savor every sip. These drinks aren’t just about alcohol; they’re about the experience, the balance, and the connection to what’s in your glass. Mindful cocktails celebrate fresh, quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation, helping you enjoy your drink with awareness and gratitude.
By Ava Mitchell2 months ago in Proof
Mastering Bar Design Skills: Crafting the Ultimate Drinking Experience
When it comes to running a successful bar, mixing great cocktails is just one piece of the puzzle. The real magic happens when you combine your bartending skills with savvy bar design. Bar design skills are about more than just aesthetics—they shape the vibe, efficiency, and overall guest experience. Whether you’re building a home bar or designing a professional space, knowing how to balance form and function will make your bar the place to be.
By Ava Mitchell2 months ago in Proof
Mastering the Mobile Bar Setup: Your Guide to Portable Cocktail Magic
Setting up a mobile bar is like bringing the soul of a cocktail lounge wherever you go. Whether it’s a wedding, a backyard party, or a pop-up event, a well-organized mobile bar setup can turn any occasion into a memorable experience. The key? Combining portability, efficiency, and style.
By Ava Mitchell2 months ago in Proof
Market-Based Cocktails: Fresh Flavors from the Local Harvest
When it comes to cocktails, freshness isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the heart and soul of a truly memorable drink. Market-based cocktails celebrate the bounty of local farmers’ markets, seasonal produce stands, and artisanal ingredients. By embracing what’s ripe, fragrant, and vibrant in your neighborhood, you transform your cocktail hour into a celebration of place and time.
By Ava Mitchell2 months ago in Proof
Creative Whiskey and Coke Cocktails to Elevate Your Night
Whiskey and Coke is a classic duo, simple and satisfying. But if you think it’s just a boring mix of brown liquor and cola, think again. With a little creativity, you can transform this everyday combo into something extraordinary. Let’s dive into some inventive twists that bring new life to the familiar, highlighting the rich flavors of whiskey while playing with the sweetness and fizz of Coke.
By Ava Mitchell2 months ago in Proof
Vintage Cocktail Research: Unlocking Classic Libations
When you dive into vintage cocktail research, you’re stepping into a world of elegance, history, and timeless flavors. These classic drinks tell stories of eras past, from smoky speakeasies to glamorous hotel bars. The charm of vintage cocktails lies in their simple yet sophisticated balance — a few quality ingredients skillfully combined to create magic in a glass.
By Ava Mitchell2 months ago in Proof
A Bartender’s Guide to an Unusual Bitters List
Bitters are the secret spice of cocktail magic. They’re like tiny flavor bombs that, when dropped into a drink, transform it from ordinary to extraordinary. Most people know about Angostura or Peychaud’s, but the world of bitters is a vast, thrilling playground filled with unusual flavors that can add a twist to your home bartending game. Let’s dive into a list of some unusual bitters that every adventurous cocktail lover should know about.
By Ava Mitchell2 months ago in Proof
Tea Syrup Drinks: Sweet, Smooth, and Surprising Cocktails
Tea syrup is a game changer in the cocktail world. It’s a sweet, fragrant syrup made by infusing sugar with brewed tea, capturing all those delicate flavors and aromas. Whether you’re using black, green, oolong, or herbal tea, tea syrup adds a unique twist that elevates your drinks from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s simple to make at home and versatile enough to pair with a variety of spirits.
By Ava Mitchell2 months ago in Proof
International Bar Traditions: A World of Cocktails and Culture
Bars are more than just places to grab a drink—they are cultural hubs where traditions shape the way we enjoy cocktails around the globe. Every country has its own unique bar customs, cocktail styles, and drinking etiquette that tell stories about history, local ingredients, and social vibes. Let’s take a spirited journey through some of the most fascinating international bar traditions and discover how they influence the art of mixology today.
By Ava Mitchell2 months ago in Proof
