What Even Is a Cocktail?

A friendly intro to what makes a drink a cocktail — without the bartender lingo.

If you’ve ever stared at a beautiful drink and wondered, “Is this technically a cocktail?” — you’re in good company.

The word cocktail sounds fancy, like something you need a degree in bartending to understand. But it’s really just a name for a drink with a few things mixed together to make something better than the sum of its parts.

The Simple Version?

A cocktail is just a drink made by combining ingredients — usually a base (like wine or spirits), something to balance it (like citrus or syrup), and sometimes bubbles, herbs, or fun stuff on top.

That’s it. It can be boozy or not. Shaken or stirred. It could be something you build in a glass with ice while wearing pajamas. And if you like the way it tastes? It counts.

So... Is My Juice + Sparkling Water a Cocktail?

Honestly? If you want it to be — yes.

The traditional definition used to require alcohol, but now there’s a whole world of zero-proof and low-ABV cocktails that skip or minimize alcohol. They’re still layered, flavorful, and made with intention — and that’s what really makes something a cocktail.

What Do You Need to Make One?

You don’t need a shaker, bar spoon, or mixology kit to get started. A few basics are more than enough:

• Something to mix with (a jar with a lid works!)

• A small measuring tool (like a shot glass or tablespoon)

• Ice (don’t skip this — it matters more than you think)

• A curious mood

So Why Do We Love Cocktails?

Because they turn ordinary ingredients into something special.They’re not about drinking — they’re about enjoying. Creating. Savoring.

Even a super simple one — like lemon juice, honey, and sparkling water — feels like a little upgrade to your day. And that’s the kind of vibe we’re into here.

TL;DR?

Cocktails = drinks made with care, flavor, and a little curiosity.

No rules, no pressure — just good sips. 🍹