In cocktail preparation, what does the term "muddle" refer to?

The term "muddle" in cocktail preparation specifically refers to the technique of crushing herbs or fruits to release their essential oils and flavors. This process is crucial in many cocktails, as it allows the natural flavors of ingredients such as mint or berries to be released into the drink, enhancing the overall taste. Muddling is often done with a muddler, which is a tool designed for this purpose, allowing the bartender to press down and twist gently to extract the flavors without completely pulverizing the ingredients into a mushy consistency.

Using this method helps maintain the integrity of the ingredients while ensuring that their unique characteristics are infused into the cocktail, resulting in a well-balanced and flavorful drink. This technique is foundational for many classic cocktails, such as the Mojito or the Old Fashioned, where the fresh ingredients play a pivotal role in the drink's profile.