Dash

Definition:

The bartender’s version of “just a pinch,” only with more wrist flicking and less grandma baking energy. A dash is a small, imprecise measurement (usually used for bitters) that’s just enough to make a cocktail interesting without turning it into a medicinal experiment.

Why it Matters:

A dash may sound insignificant, but in the world of cocktails, it’s the difference between a balanced Manhattan and a drink that tastes like someone poured cough syrup in your glass. Think of bitters like seasoning in cooking: too little and the dish is bland, too much and you’re chewing on a salt lick. That tiny wrist flick of liquid carries powerful botanicals that transform a cocktail from “meh” to “masterpiece.”

The dash also represents the art of bartending. Sure, we can measure out ounces with a jigger, but a dash is a test of instinct, flair, and finesse. It’s a tiny move that separates the cautious home mixer from the confident pro who knows just how much personality to sprinkle in a glass. In other words, it’s where science hands the shaker over to art.