Build In Glass

Definition:

The “DIY assembly line” of cocktailing: where the bartender skips the shaker drama and simply drops all the goods straight into the glass you’ll be sipping from. It’s less “Broadway production” and more “cocktail IKEA kit.”

Why it Matters:

This method is the bartending equivalent of saying, “We’re keeping it casual tonight.” When you build in glass, you’re not dirtying up a shaker, strainer, or extra tin; just straight to business. It’s fast, efficient, and lets the ingredients mingle naturally over ice, creating a drink that feels unpretentious but still classy.

Some of the most iconic cocktails (think Gin & Tonic, Mojito, or Negroni) are built right in the glass. Why? Because these drinks don’t need the gym membership that is shaking; they just need a proper stir, a good balance, and the right glassware. Plus, for home bartenders, it’s a blessing: fewer dishes, more sipping.