When it comes to ordering drinks at a bar, you may have come across terms like “house” and “well.” While these terms are often used interchangeably, there are slight differences between the two. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the world of mixed drinks and explain the nuances of house and well drinks.
Understanding House Drinks
House drinks, sometimes referred to as well drinks, are essentially basic mixed drinks that bartenders offer to patrons. These drinks typically consist of lower-tier liquors, whose brand is not specified by the customer. They are the go-to options when you want a simple cocktail without any specific preferences regarding the brand of alcohol used.
Exploring Well Drinks
Well drinks, on the other hand, are a type of call drink. A call drink is where the customer explicitly requests a particular brand of liquor to be used in their mixed drink. This is different from a house drink, where the bartender chooses the liquor based on the basic options available behind the bar.
Comparing Brands and Choices
When you order a well drink, you have the freedom to specify the brand of liquor you prefer. For example, you may ask for a rum and coke with Bacardi rum, or a vodka soda with Grey Goose vodka. This allows you to have more control over the taste and quality of the drink.
Quality and Pricing
One significant difference between house and well drinks lies in the quality and pricing. House drinks typically use lower-tier or generic liquors, which are often less expensive than premium brands. On the contrary, well drinks use liquor brands that fall into a higher price range, resulting in a slightly higher cost for the customer.
Availability and Variety
House drinks are generally more readily available, as most bars are equipped with a standard selection of lower-tier liquors to serve as the base for these cocktails. On the other hand, the availability of well drinks is determined by the specific brands of liquor present at the bar. If a particular brand is unavailable, the bartender may suggest an alternative or ask for your preference.
The Role of Bartenders
Bartenders play a crucial role in both house and well drinks. When you order a house drink, you are trusting the bartender’s expertise in choosing a suitable liquor to create a balanced and enjoyable cocktail. On the other hand, with well drinks, you provide guidance to the bartender by specifying your preferred brand.
Personal Preferences
Sometimes, the choice between a house and a well drink boils down to personal preference. If you have a favorite brand of liquor or want a premium experience, opting for a well drink gives you the opportunity to enjoy your preferred brand. However, if you’re open to trying different combinations and trust the bartender’s expertise, a house drink can be a convenient and cost-effective choice.
In Summary
While house and well drinks share similarities, they are not the same thing. House drinks are basic mixed drinks where the bartender selects a lower-tier or generic brand of liquor, while well drinks are call drinks where the customer specifies their desired brand of liquor. The decision between the two depends on your preference for control over the brand, taste, availability, and pricing.
Enjoying Your Drink of Choice
Ultimately, whether you prefer a house or well drink, what matters most is enjoying your drink of choice in the company of friends or loved ones. Cheers to exploring the world of mixed drinks and discovering new flavors along the way!
