How do bartenders pour rainbow shots?

Answered by Joseph Vos

As an experienced bartender, I have had the pleasure of pouring many rainbow shots for my customers. It's always a fun and visually appealing drink that adds a touch of excitement to any gathering. Let me walk you through the process of creating these colorful shots step by step.

1. Prepare the Glass:
Start by grabbing a shot glass or a small glass suitable for one serving. Fill the glass with ice cubes. The ice will not only keep the drink cold but also assist in layering the different colors.

2. Layer 1: Grenadine Syrup:
The first layer is created by pouring 2 cl (centiliters) of grenadine syrup into the glass. Grenadine syrup is a sweet and vibrant red syrup made from pomegranates. It adds a lovely touch of red to the bottom of the glass.

3. Layer 2: Orange :
Next, carefully pour 13 cl of orange juice into the glass. The orange juice will create a bright and sunny layer on top of the grenadine syrup. Be sure to pour slowly and gently to avoid mixing the layers together.

4. Layer 3: Lemonade with Blue Coloring:
To achieve the rainbow effect, the final layer requires a little preparation. Mix 5 cl of lemonade with a few drops of blue liquid food coloring. The blue coloring will give the drink its vibrant and eye-catching rainbow appearance. Slowly pour this mixture onto the back of a spoon held just above the orange juice layer. By pouring it gently onto the spoon, the blue layer will float on top of the orange juice without blending into it. The spoon acts as a barrier, helping to slow down the pour and maintain the separation between the layers.

5. Enjoy the Rainbow Shot:
Once all the layers are in place, the rainbow shot is ready to be enjoyed. The layers should retain their distinct colors, creating a beautiful visual effect. Encourage your guests to stir the layers together before taking the shot, as this will mix the flavors and create a delightful taste combination.

Tips for Perfect Rainbow Shots:
– Use a clear glass to showcase the vibrant colors of the drink. It adds to the visual appeal.
– Pour each layer slowly and gently, allowing it to settle before adding the next layer. This helps in achieving a clear and defined separation between the colors.
– If you're having trouble layering the ingredients, try using a bar spoon or a straw to pour the next layer over. It allows for better control and precision.
– Adjust the quantities of each ingredient based on the size of the glass you're using. The ratios mentioned above work well for a standard shot glass, but feel free to adapt as needed.

Creating rainbow shots is both a science and an art. It requires skill and patience to layer the ingredients perfectly and create a stunning visual effect. But once you've mastered the technique, it's a surefire way to impress your guests and add a touch of magic to any celebration. Cheers to colorful and delicious drinks!