The Dark and Stormy is one of the most popular rum-based cocktails in the world. This classic drink is made with a combination of dark rum and ginger beer, often garnished with a lime wedge. Despite its popularity, there is some debate in the bartending community over whether the Dark and Stormy is a well drink or not.
In this article, we will explore the history and ingredients of the Dark and Stormy, as well as the definition of a well drink in the bar industry. We will analyze the arguments for and against categorizing the Dark and Stormy as a well drink, and provide our conclusion on the matter. Whether you are a bartender looking to perfect your cocktail-making skills or simply a fan of the Dark and Stormy, this article is sure to provide some interesting insights and information.
Understanding the Definition of a Well Drink
When it comes to ordering drinks at a bar or restaurant, you may come across the term “well drink.” A well drink simply refers to any type of drink or cocktail that is made with the bar’s standard or house alcohol, rather than a premium or top-shelf brand. This means that the bartender will use the most inexpensive liquor available to make your drink.
Well drinks are often cheaper than their premium counterparts and are typically the go-to option for those looking to save some money while enjoying a night out. However, it’s important to note that just because a drink is classified as a well drink, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s of lower quality or taste. A well-made well drink can be just as enjoyable as a top-shelf cocktail, especially when mixed with fresh ingredients and served by a skillful bartender.
The Most Popular Types of Well Drinks at Bars
When you’re at a bar and don’t want to spend a lot of money on premium cocktails, ordering a “well drink” is a great option. A well drink is a cocktail made with house-brand liquors and mixers, which are typically the cheapest options available. While the quality of a well drink may not be as high as a premium cocktail, the price is generally much more affordable.
The most popular types of well drinks at bars may vary depending on the establishment and the region, but some common options include a Rum and Coke, Vodka and Tonic, Gin and Tonic, and of course, a Dark and Stormy. Other popular well drink options include a Margarita, Screwdriver, Mai Tai, Long Island Iced Tea, and Moscow Mule. Many bars also offer their own signature well drink creations, so don’t be afraid to ask what the bartender recommends.
Is Dark and Stormy a Commonly Ordered Cocktail at Bars?
Dark and Stormy is a popular cocktail worldwide, and it is often a go-to drink for those seeking a refreshing and spicy cocktail. Bartenders widely recognize this drink, making it a well-known and commonly ordered cocktail at bars. Its popularity has led to the creation of many variations, which means that you may find different versions of this cocktail in various regions.
In most bars, bartenders face a high demand for Dark and Stormy, thus making it a commonly ordered drink. Its popularity is due to its simple recipe, exotic flavor, and appealing appearance. It is made with dark rum, ginger beer, and lime juice, garnished with a slice of lime and a sprig of mint. Therefore, if you’re looking for a classic rum-based cocktail that is widely available in most bars worldwide, Dark and Stormy is the perfect choice.
Debating Whether Dark and Stormy Deserves the Well Drink Title
The debate surrounding whether Dark and Stormy deserves the title of a well drink is ongoing among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts. A well drink is typically a basic cocktail that is made with lower quality or house liquors, whereas a call drink is made with premium liquors.
Some argue that the Dark and Stormy, which is made with dark rum and ginger beer, is a simple enough cocktail that it should be considered a well drink. However, others believe that the quality of ingredients used in a Dark and Stormy, such as a high-quality rum and artisanal ginger beer, make it deserving of a call drink label. Ultimately, the classification of the Dark and Stormy as a well or call drink may vary depending on the bar and the quality of ingredients used in the cocktail.
How to Make a Perfect Dark and Stormy at Home
Making the perfect Dark and Stormy at home is a matter of getting the proportion of rum and ginger beer right. Begin by filling a highball glass with ice, pour in 2 oz of dark rum, and then top with ginger beer. You could also add a bit of lime juice and lime wedges for garnish.
When selecting the ingredients, use a dark rum that is robust enough to stand up to the ginger beer. The ginger beer should also be of good quality as it is an essential component of the drink. Stir the ingredients gently and enjoy your homemade Dark and Stormy. With a little practice, you will be able to make a perfect Dark and Stormy every time and impress your guests with this classic cocktail.
Alternatives to Dark and Stormy as a Well Drink
For those who are looking for alternatives to Dark and Stormy as a well drink, there are many options available. One of the most popular alternatives is the Moscow Mule, which is made by combining vodka, ginger beer, and lime. It has similar flavor profiles to a Dark and Stormy but tends to be less sweet.
Another alternative is the Kentucky Mule, which is made by replacing vodka with bourbon or whiskey. This drink has a stronger taste and is preferred for those who enjoy the taste of whiskey. Other alternatives include the Hemingway Daiquiri, which is a combination of rum, lime juice, grapefruit juice, and maraschino liqueur, and the Gin and Tonic, which is a classic cocktail that combines gin, tonic water, and lime juice. With these many alternatives, there is a drink for everyone, whether you prefer a sweet or strong cocktail.
Exploring the Different Classifications of Cocktails and their Importance.
In the world of cocktails, there are various classifications that bartenders use to categorize drinks. The most common classification is the well drink, which refers to cocktails made with lower-cost liquors and mixers. A Dark and Stormy consists of dark rum, ginger beer, and lime, and is typically not considered a well drink due to the use of higher-end ingredients.
Other classifications include call drinks, which use higher-end liquors and are typically more expensive, and premium drinks, which use top-shelf ingredients and are the most expensive option. Understanding the different classifications of cocktails can help you make informed decisions when ordering drinks at a bar or when making cocktails at home. It’s also worth noting that the classification of a cocktail can vary between bars and regions, so it’s always a good idea to ask your bartender or consult a cocktail guide for more information.
Final Words
After thorough research and analysis, it can be concluded that a Dark and Stormy is not considered a well drink. While the recipe for this cocktail is relatively simple and consists of only two main ingredients, the use of a specific brand of ginger beer and rum elevates it above the standard well offerings. Additionally, the popularity of the Dark and Stormy means that it is often ordered specifically by name, further removing it from the category of a common well drink.
It is important for both bartenders and patrons to understand the distinction between a well drink and a premium cocktail, as it can impact both the price and quality of the drink. While it may be tempting to assume that all two-ingredient cocktails fall into the well drink category, this is not always the case and it is wise to ask for specifics when ordering. In the end, whether a drink is classified as a well drink or not should not detract from one’s enjoyment of it.