What's Your Cocktail Mixing Skill Level?

Discover where you stand as a home bartender and unlock personalized strategies to master Canadian cocktails. In just 4 quick questions, we'll assess your mixing knowledge, technique readiness, and ingredient awareness. Get your results instantly and receive a custom action plan tailored to your skill level—plus exclusive tips the pros use.

When you're mixing a Canadian cocktail at home, how do you typically handle ice?

I use whatever ice is available—cubes, crushed, doesn't really matter. I use regular ice cubes but don't always fill the shaker completely. I use fresh, properly-sized ice cubes and fill my shaker most of the way. I use premium ice, fill completely, and understand ice's role in chilling, dilution, and texture.

How do you currently measure ingredients when mixing cocktails?

I eyeball it or free-pour directly into the glass—faster and more fun. I occasionally use a jigger, but mostly I estimate based on experience. I use a jigger for most drinks to ensure consistency and balance. I measure everything precisely with a jigger and track ratios for every cocktail I create.

What's your approach to choosing between shaking and stirring a cocktail?

I don't really think about it—I just mix it however seems easiest. I've heard there's a difference but I'm not sure which technique to use when. I know shaking is for citrus drinks and stirring for spirit-forward cocktails, and I try to follow that. I understand that shaking aerates and creates proper dilution while stirring maintains elegance, and I choose based on ingredients and desired outcome.

How do you source ingredients for your cocktails?

I use whatever spirits and mixers are convenient—bottled juice, basic spirits, whatever's on sale. I occasionally buy quality ingredients, but mostly I stick with standard options. I prioritize fresh citrus and decent spirits, though I don't always seek out premium brands. I source premium Canadian whisky, fresh ingredients, artisanal bitters, and seasonal components to elevate every drink.