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Do you know what goes hand in hand really well? That’s right, it’s special events and signature cocktails! And what’s an even better match is special events in beautiful country clubs.
Whether you are dreaming of a country club wedding, want to have a creative brand launch, or even a corporate event like team building, drinks are important. Custom drinks can elevate the experience for everyone in attendance and make the event truly memorable.
Even if the country club drinks already present on your drink menu are following the latest adult beverage trends, something unique can be created for the event. A mixologist can be of great help in this situation.
But before we go more in-depth on how exactly a mixology specialist can help, let’s talk about what are signature cocktails and why you need them. Let’s jump right in!
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Signature Cocktails: What Are They?
Signature drinks or cocktails are special beverages created to fit the concept of an event or an establishment. They can also be a reflection of the personality of the one who created them.
What’s great about creating a signature cocktail is that you can use seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients. This will infuse even more personality into the great cocktails you are creating.
Don’t underestimate the power of a good signature cocktail as it can take your event to the next level. It adds a personal touch and can create a better experience for your guests. If you are not sure how to create one or a few signature drinks, you can always turn to a cocktail expert.
Key Takeaway: Creating signature cocktails can bring you ahead of the curve. Choose a base spirit and mixers, and try out different options until you find the perfect match for your country club!
Creating a Signature Cocktail for Country Clubs
Whether you are the business owner of the country club or the manager, you should think about creating a special cocktail that will fit the concept and vibe of the establishment. From poolside cocktails to non-alcoholic beverages and everything in between, strive to provide a unique customer experience by offering exclusive drinks.
A specially-made cocktail adds a sense of excitement. Since people won’t be able to try this same drink anywhere else, there’s a high chance they will order it. And if we are talking about drinks served during a special event, they will most likely go for another round.
Needless to say, this is a sure way to increase not only customer satisfaction but profits as well. So if you haven’t made any step towards creating a special drink for your country club or the events you are hosting, here’s what you need to know!
1. Think About the Concept
Whether you want to add signature cocktails to your permanent or seasonal menu, or you want to create something for a special event, you need to figure out the concept.
Do you want to create a feeling of freedom and tranquility? Or maybe you want to make people feel cozy and relaxed?
It could be anything! If you are adding the drink to your menu, consider the feeling you want to create in your country club. Don’t focus only on golf. Although this is a crucial part of the country club culture, you can look beyond that. If the drink is being created for a special occasion, think about the decorations and overall look and feel you are trying to create. This will lead you in the right direction.
2. Choose the Base Spirit
Once you figure out the concept and the feeling you want to create with the signature cocktails, it’s time to choose the base spirit.
Vodka, rum, whiskey, gin, bourbon, and tequila are some of the most popular base types of alcohol you can use. Each of them can be used in numerous combinations with other ingredients to create something special and truly delicious.
If you want to make the decision based on concrete data, you can use beverage inventory software like BinWise Pro. When you track the inventory using our platform, you can clearly see what customers like the most and what they rarely order. This data can be extremely helpful when choosing a base spirit for your special drinks!
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3. Pick the Other Ingredients
Here it’s important to mention that in the past few years, cocktail drinks with two or three ingredients have become very popular. Although this may sound limiting, there are so many options to choose from nowadays that creating something unique is not that hard.
Try different simple options and if there’s nothing that really sticks, add some more ingredients. It may take time until a good combination is found but just keep working with your trusted bartender.
This is also the time to consider creating some vegan drinks, as well as gluten-free cocktail options, to cater to a wider range of customers (see also: gluten-free drinks).
4. Try a Few Different Options
It’s always a good idea to try things out. If there’s a special event coming up, you may not be able to try out the signature cocktails and narrow down options. But if you are creating them for your country club menu, you should do some testing.
Release a few special offers and see which one (or maybe a few!) people like best. The opinion of your country club members is what matters most, so you should look into their preferences. You can even do the same type of testing with the private label wine you are serving.
Don’t Forget the Storage!
While on the topic of signature cocktails and special offers, let’s talk a little bit about beverage storage. Storing wine and other beverages the right way can make or break your beverage program.
Look into temperature-control storage for wine, beer, spirits, and all other beverages you offer in your country club. All of them have to be stored in different conditions to stay fresh longer. Making sure everything is stored properly is one way to do damage control, which is important for the profitability of your business.
Frequently Asked Questions about Signature Cocktails in Country Clubs
Here’s what else you may want to know regarding signature cocktails in country clubs.
What’s the Most Popular Base Alcohol for Cocktails in Country Clubs?
Vodka is one of the most preferred base alcohols for cocktails in country clubs.
Vodka mixes well with a wide variety of other alcoholic beverages, as well as soft drinks and other ingredients. This makes vodka cocktails a perfect choice for drinks for all four seasons and different special occasions.
What’s the Perfect Ratio in Cocktail Making?
The most common ratio in cocktail making is 2:1:1 when we are talking about three-ingredient drinks. This formula makes it easy to create new and exciting drinks for guests, no matter the event or season.
Try it out in different combinations and you will find a great signature cocktail to serve to your country club guests.
Should I Have a Signature Cocktail for My Country Club?
You don’t have to but you should have a signature cocktail! This is something that may seem small at first but will set you apart from the rest.
It’s a way to convey your message, create a feeling, and bring something exciting to members who won’t be able to find it anywhere else. A signature drink may even increase profits!
Can Signature Cocktails Be Non-Alcoholic?
Signature cocktails (or custom drinks) can also be non-alcoholic. Mocktails, as they are called, are designed to provide unique and flavorful options for those who don't consume alcohol. This would be a nice detail for all people who prefer no-alcohol drinks or low-alcohol options.
What Are Some Popular Ingredients Used in Signature Cocktails?
Creating signature cocktails requires using some unique options like special liqueurs, locally-sourced ingredients like herbs and spices, as well as home-made infusions, and fruit juices. You can experiment with the different ingredients and ratios until you find a combination that you like and want to serve at your country club's bar or restaurant.