As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can certainly shed some light on the topic of bars making espresso martinis. While it is true that not all bars have an espresso machine or pre-cooled espresso readily available, there are some establishments that go the extra mile to ensure they are prepared for the evening rush.
In my experience, I have come across a handful of bars in Manhattan that take their cocktail game to the next level by batching their espresso ahead of time. This preparation allows them to have a consistent and high-quality espresso base for their espresso martinis throughout the night.
One of the reasons why bars choose to go this route is to streamline their operations. Making a fresh espresso for each individual cocktail can be time-consuming and may slow down the overall service. By pre-batching the espresso, bartenders can focus on crafting the perfect cocktail without the added pressure of making espresso on demand.
Furthermore, pre-batching the espresso also ensures that each drink will have a consistent flavor profile. Espresso can vary in taste and strength depending on the beans, extraction time, and brewing method. By controlling these variables during the batching process, bars can guarantee that every espresso martini they serve will have the same balanced and delicious flavor.
I vividly remember visiting a bar in Manhattan that took immense pride in their espresso martini preparation. The bartender explained to me that they would brew a large batch of espresso in the morning, allowing it to cool to room temperature before refrigerating it. This process helped to enhance the flavors and ensure that the espresso was perfectly chilled for the cocktails.
When it came time to make the espresso martini, the bartender would measure out the desired amount of pre-batched espresso and combine it with vodka, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup. The mixture would then be shaken vigorously with ice to create a frothy and delightful cocktail. The end result was a velvety smooth drink with a rich coffee flavor that was simply irresistible.
While not all bars may go to such lengths to prepare their espresso martinis, it is certainly a testament to their dedication to providing a top-notch cocktail experience for their patrons. The effort that goes into pre-batching the espresso is a reflection of the craftsmanship and attention to detail that bartenders bring to their creations.
While not all bars may have an espresso machine or cooled espresso readily available, there are indeed establishments, particularly in Manhattan, that go above and beyond to ensure they can make espresso martinis. By pre-batching their espresso, these bars can streamline their operations, guarantee consistent flavor profiles, and deliver exceptional cocktails to their customers.