On the rocks

On the Rocks is a term used in bartending and mixology to refer to a method of serving a drink, typically a spirit or a cocktail. The phrase "on the rocks" means that the drink is served over ice cubes. This method of serving can affect the taste and experience of the drink, as the ice can dilute the drink and lower its temperature.

History

The practice of serving drinks "on the rocks" has a long history, dating back to the early days of distillation. Ice was originally a luxury item, and its use in drinks was a sign of wealth and sophistication. As ice became more widely available with the advent of refrigeration technology, the practice of serving drinks on the rocks became more common.

Technique

To serve a drink "on the rocks", the bartender first fills a glass with ice cubes. The drink is then poured over the ice. The amount of ice used can vary depending on the drink and the drinker's preference. Some drinks are served with just a few ice cubes, while others are served with a glass full of ice.

The type of ice used can also affect the drink. Some bartenders use large, slow-melting ice cubes to minimize dilution, while others use crushed ice to cool the drink more quickly.

Impact on Taste

Serving a drink on the rocks can significantly affect its taste. The ice dilutes the drink as it melts, which can soften the flavors and make the drink less potent. This can be desirable for strong spirits like whiskey or scotch, as it can make them smoother and more palatable.

However, too much dilution can also water down the drink and mask its flavors. For this reason, some drinkers prefer their spirits neat, or without ice.

Related Terms

"On the rocks" is one of many terms used in bartending to describe how a drink is served. Other related terms include "neat", which means the drink is served without ice, and "up", which means the drink is shaken or stirred with ice and then strained into a glass.