The 2-1-1 on Custom Cocktail Recipes
The 2-1-1 on Custom Cocktail Recipes
Anyone who can remember "2-1-1" can make a custom cocktail! 2-1-1s are drinks that fall into the "sour" category (think whiskey sours, lemon drops and margaritas). These are in contrast to very alcohol-forward drinks, like Manhattans, old fashioneds and martinis, which may have some sweetener but usually no fruit juice and lack the tartness of a sour. 2-1-1 is a ratio of the three base components that make up a sour cocktail: 2 parts liquor, 1 part sweet and 1 part sour. If you prefer a stronger or less sweet drink, just adjust the components to taste, using the 2-1-1 ratio as your baseline.
2 Parts Liquor:
Start with a base alcohol, such as gin, vodka, tequila or rum.
1 Part Sweet:
"Sweeteners" doesn't just mean sugar. Fresh juices are perfect here, as is agave syrup, honey or even a sweet liqueur like crème de cassis, triple sec or apple brandy. You can also use a combination of these, especially if your fruit is on the sour side.
1 Part Sour:
Add a splash of lime to clear alcohols. A splash of lemon works well with darker spirits.
Putting It All Together
Once you've gathered your mixers, add cubed (not crushed) ice to a cocktail shaker, filling it nearly to the top. Add your ingredients and shake until the drink is thoroughly cold and properly diluted. Strain and serve over ice, if desired, or in a chilled glass.
If you'd like, top your drink with something sparkling, like tonic water, club soda or sparkling wine. Use as much or as little as you like. Champagne is always a winner!
Bonus points for adding bitters! Just a drop or two will add another aromatic and bitter element to round out your drink.
Rimming your glasses with sugar or salt (flavored or plain) and finishing with fresh fruit garnishes is optional but impressive.
