Bar Term
Free Pour
Also known as: speed pouring
The technique of pouring spirits directly without using a jigger, relying on counting and experience to achieve accurate measurements.
Free pouring requires practice to develop consistent accuracy. Most bartenders use a counting method - with standard pour spouts, counting to four gives approximately 1.5 oz. While faster than jiggering, free pouring sacrifices precision and can lead to inconsistency and over-pouring. Many craft bars now prefer jigger-measured pours for accuracy, but free pouring remains common in high-volume settings where speed is critical.
💡 Pro Tips
- Practice with water and a jigger to check accuracy
- Count rhythm: '1-one-thousand, 2-one-thousand'
- Standard count to 4 = approximately 1.5 oz
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Free pouring without practicing and testing accuracy
- Relying on free pour for spirit-forward drinks
- Not accounting for different bottle spouts
