Splash VS Dash: How Much Amount Do These Mean In A Cocktail?
Have you ever found yourself blankly staring at the bartender when asked if you want a ‘dash’ or ‘splash’ in your cocktail? Also, in some cases you might be behind the bar trying to decode the secrets of perfect cocktail-making only to add one instead of the other, resulting in the ruining of the cocktail.
Most of us have been in the same situation as cocktail lingo is quite confusing. Besides, the difference between things like splash and dash seems to be so minute that even it may not be important at the moment. However, fret not as it is merely easy to break down the difference between splash and dash to not only impress your drinking buddies but to order with confidence.
A splash is a term used to describe a larger volume of liquid, typically around 1/2 to 3/4 ounce. When a bartender or mixologist adds a splash of an ingredient to a cocktail, it is done with a deliberate and measured pour. Splashes are often employed when a more pronounced flavour or aroma is desired, and the ingredient can significantly influence the overall taste profile of the drink. For example, a splash of citrus juice or soda may be used to enhance the freshness of a cocktail.
On the other hand, a dash is a term denoting a smaller quantity, usually ranging from a few drops to 1/8 ounce. The pour for a dash is brief and quick, with the intent of adding a subtle nuance to the cocktail without dominating the flavour. Bitters, hot sauces, or concentrated flavour agents are often added to a drink in dashes. This method allows for precise control over the intensity of the ingredient, ensuring it complements rather than overwhelms the other elements in the cocktail.
Take a look at the major differences between a splash and a dash:
Volume
A "splash" is a term used for a more substantial quantity, typically ranging from 1/2 to 3/4 ounces. When a bartender adds a splash of an ingredient to a cocktail, it is a deliberate and measured pour that significantly contributes to the overall flavour profile.
On the other hand, a "dash" denotes a smaller amount, usually comprising a few drops to 1/8 ounce. The pour for a dash is brief and quick, emphasizing precision over volume.
Intensity
The act of splashing implies a deliberate and slightly prolonged release of the liquid, ensuring a more significant contribution to the overall flavour profile of the cocktail.
The pour for a dash is swift, often achieved by briefly tipping a bottle to release a small quantity. This method allows for subtle incorporation of the ingredient, emphasizing precision in flavour enhancement without overpowering the drink.
Usage In Recipe
A splash is often specified when a more pronounced flavour or aroma is desired in the cocktail. Bartenders might employ a splash of citrus juice or soda to elevate freshness or introduce a notable fruity note. The usage of a splash tends to bring a more noticeable and influential presence to a recipe
A dash is employed when a subtle nuance is sought without overpowering the other ingredients. Dashes are often reserved for concentrated flavor agents like bitters or hot sauces, offering nuanced enhancements without overpowering the drink. A dash contributes a delicate touch, allowing for precise control and a more balanced integration of flavours in the final concoction.
Visual Impact
This intentional and measured splash pour is often employed when the visual component is as crucial as the flavour, as seen when adding vibrant fruit juices or colourful mixers.
The brief and quick pour associated with a dash allows for precise control, imparting nuanced enhancements without dominating the drink's appearance.
