A concise field guide
01 · Typical strength
Varies widely; the relevant measure is the amount of ethanol in the finished serve, not its name or glass size.
02 · How it is made
Techniques include stirring, shaking, building, muddling, and controlled dilution with ice.
03 · Common glassware
Highball, rocks, coupe, martini, or Collins glass chosen to suit temperature, dilution, and aroma.
04 · First taste
Taste before adjusting. Notice balance among sweet, sour, bitter, spirit, temperature, and dilution.