Float

A technique of gently pouring a small amount of liquid on top of a cocktail so it remains as a separate layer rather than mixing in.

Floating creates visual contrast and allows the floated ingredient to hit the palate first when sipping. Common floats include dark rum on tropical drinks, red wine on a New York Sour, or cream on Irish Coffee. The technique uses density differences and a careful pour - usually over the back of a bar spoon - to keep ingredients separate. Floats should be added just before serving.

💡 Pro Tips

• Pour very slowly over the back of a bar spoon
• Position the spoon just above the drink's surface
• Float just before serving for best presentation

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Pouring too quickly and breaking through
• Using too much liquid
• Stirring after floating

📚 Related Terms

Bar Spoon

A long-handled spoon with a twisted shaft, used for stirring cocktails, layering drinks, and measuring small amounts of ingredients.

Layer

A cocktail technique of carefully floating ingredients on top of each other to create visually distinct bands of color in the glass.