Levi KeswickKey takeaways:
- Well drinks are cocktails made with lower-cost liquor, making them more affordable for customers and profitable for bars.
- The quality of well drinks can vary depending on the establishment and the choice of well liquor.
- Popular well drinks include rum and coke, gin and tonic, screwdriver, and Long Island iced tea.
- Top choices of well liquor for whiskey, vodka, tequila, rum, and more can elevate the taste of well drinks without breaking the bank.
The Mystery of Well Drinks Unveiled
Well drinks, also known as well liquor, are mixed drinks made with lower-cost liquors, making them more affordable for customers and profitable for bars. These drinks are perfect for those who don’t request specific brands when ordering cocktails, and they allow bars to keep their costs low while maximizing profit. The quality of well drinks can vary depending on the establishment and the choice of well liquor. In this article, we will explore the art of well drinks and reveal the top choices for your bar’s well vodka and other spirits.
Top 5 Well Vodka Brands for Exceptional Well Drinks
The following well vodka brands offer great taste and affordability, making them perfect choices for well drinks:
- Tito’s Handmade: This 80-proof vodka is distilled using yellow corn in Texas, giving it a sweet, peppery taste that works well in mixed drinks.
- Svedka: Made with Swedish spring water and wheat, this 80-proof vodka boasts a balanced taste that doesn’t overpower and comes in various flavors.
- Smirnoff No. 21: A multi-award-winning, 80-proof corn vodka with a smooth feel, Smirnoff No. 21 is a well-known name in vodka and a common choice for bar wells.
- Sobieski: The #1 selling vodka in Poland, Sobieski is an 80-proof rye vodka that tastes very smooth without a bite.
- Wodka: Another 80-proof rye Polish vodka, Wodka offers a cheaper alternative to Sobieski with a stronger mineral taste but nearly as smooth.
Well Drinks Worth Ordering
These popular well drinks showcase the versatility and appeal of well liquor:
- Rum and Coke: A classic highball cocktail made with rum, Coca-Cola, and lime juice.
- Gin and Tonic: A simple, refreshing drink made with one part gin and three parts tonic water.
- Screwdriver: A tasty vodka treat made with one part vodka and two parts orange juice.
- Long Island Iced Tea: A more complex cocktail that utilizes syrup, lemon juice, cola, and a variety of liquors from the well.
- Tom Collins: A light, classic cocktail made with gin, lemon juice, syrup, and carbonated water.
Elevating Your Well Drinks with Top Choices in Other Spirits
In addition to well vodka, consider these top choices for well whiskey, tequila, and rum:
- Well Whiskey: Evan Williams, Old Crow, John B. Stetson, Four Roses, and Fleischmann’s.
- Well Tequila: Hornitos Black Barrel, Espolon Blanco, El Jimador, Lanazul Blanco, and Jose Cuervo.
- Well Rum: El Dorado 8 Year, Bankers Club Silver Rum, Angostura 5 Year, Bacardi Superior, and Captain Morgan.
By carefully selecting the best well liquors for your bar, you can create exceptional well drinks that satisfy your customers’ taste buds without emptying their wallets. It is essential to maintain a balance between quality and affordability in your well drinks to ensure you continue to have a loyal patron base.
The Importance of a Well-Organized and Clean Bar
The area behind the bar within easy reach of a bartender is called a “well.” Drinks made using common ingredients found there are referred to as well drinks. Ingredients other than liquor include club soda, seltzer, sodas, bitters, and a variety of fruits.
The well area of a bar can also be called a “speed rail,” “speed rack,” or “speed well.” As these names imply, this area is set up by the bartenders to ensure they can put drinks out as quickly as possible. Maintaining a clean and orderly well is imperative for any professional bartender.
Customizing Well Drinks for Your Bar’s Unique Identity
While it’s essential to have a standard selection of well drinks available for patrons, don’t be afraid to get creative and add your unique touch to these classic cocktails. Experiment with different flavor combinations, garnishes, and presentation styles to make your well drinks stand out and attract more customers.
For example, you could offer a seasonal twist on the classic gin and tonic by infusing your well gin with seasonal fruits or herbs. Or, put a local spin on the Long Island Iced Tea by incorporating a regional spirit or ingredient. The possibilities are endless, and customizing well drinks can be an excellent way to set your bar apart from the competition.
Educating Your Staff on Well Drinks
To provide the best experience for your patrons, it’s crucial to educate your staff on the ins and outs of well drinks. This includes understanding the different types of well liquors, the most popular well drink recipes, and the best techniques for mixing and serving these cocktails.
Consider hosting regular training sessions or workshops for your bartenders and servers to ensure they stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in the world of well drinks. This knowledge will not only help your staff serve your customers better but also give them the confidence to upsell and promote your well drinks effectively.
Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Balance for Your Bar
In conclusion, well drinks are an essential aspect of any successful bar operation. By selecting the best well liquors, maintaining a clean and organized bar, customizing your well drink offerings, and educating your staff, you can create a well drink menu that delights your customers and keeps them coming back for more.
Remember, the art of well drinks lies in finding the perfect balance between taste and affordability. With careful consideration and experimentation, you can create a well drink menu that showcases your bar’s unique identity and keeps your patrons happy and satisfied. So, embrace the world of well drinks and unlock the secrets of well liquor to elevate your bar to new heights.
