How to Create Your Own Signature Cocktail

Are you looking to make a fantastic signature cocktail? Whether you have an upcoming event or just want to make dinner at home special, we are sharing some helpful tips so you can create your own unique drink.

We all know having a great mixed drink with your dinner elevates the whole experience. At The Leaf in downtown Wooster, we pride ourselves on our exceptional cocktail menu. No matter what's on your plate, we have a drink that will take it to the next level. 

Mixing the perfect drink starts with the classic ratio of 2 - 1 - 1. This recipe of 2 parts spirit, 1 part sour, and 1 part sweet will make sure your drink is complex but balanced.

Our Watermelon + Basil Martini celebrates these two delicious ingredients! We mix vodka with freshly made watermelon and basil syrup. A splash of watermelon juice makes this drink shine!

Step 1 - Determine the Drink's Profile

Drinks can have sweet, sour, salty, bitter, or alcohol-forward flavor notes. Some drinks will hit more than one category! Think back to some of the best drinks you have had. Is there a common theme among them, or do you enjoy a wide variety of characteristics?

Step 2 - Pick the Spirit

Clear drinks like vodka will be mild or undetectable once mixed in, while dark alcohol, like bourbon, will provide a bold and robust flavor. If you aren't sure which spirit is the best one for your drink, have a mini tasting at home! Keep a glass of water nearby to cleanse your palate in between tastings.

As you explore our menu, you will find we feature different types of spirits. Each brand adds a unique twist to our signature cocktails.

Step 3 - Add the Sweet

Have fun with this step! Find inspiration for your flavors at your local grocery store by walking through the drink aisle or exploring the fruit section. Take your drink to the next level by making the syrup at home! Freshly made simple syrup will make your drink taste as if it came from a high-end bar.

Making the syrup at home can sound intimidating, but you only need to follow a 1 - 1 ratio of water to sugar. Mix the two parts together in a pan over medium-low heat and slowly stir until dissolved. Let the mixture cool, or add your ingredient (like fruit peels, flowers, or spices) to steep while the syrup is cooling. 

Our Leaf Me Alone cocktail lets the sweet flavors shine! This dessert drink features Kahlua, Bailey's, Grand Marnier, amaretto, caramel vodka, and hot coffee. It's garnished with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel.

Step 3 - Mix in the Sour

You can use bottled juice, but we recommend using freshly squeezed fruit juice when you can. Freshly pressing your fruits will make your juice taste light and clean! Many cocktail recipes use lime or lemon juice for the sour flavor.

A good margarita perfectly balances sour and salty notes, like our Leaf Margarita. Patron is elevated with Grand Marnier, Cointreau, canton liqueur mixed with fresh orange, lemon, and lime juices. 

Step 4 - Shake or Stir

Aerate your drink by using a shaker filled with frozen ice or gently stir your ingredients together. Try your drink both ways to see which one gives your cocktail the best taste!

Step 5 - Top with a Garnish

A well-made drink invites you in and appeals to all your senses like sight and smell. Your garnish can also assist in adding another layer to your drink. Add salt around the rim, top with a squeezed orange peel or a fruit wedge. Use your imagination to decorate your glass and add flavor to your cocktail! 

We love using our garnishes to share what flavors our guests can expect. Our Blackberry Mojito starts with Bacardi Rum and builds its flavor through lime juice and maple syrup. Muddle mint and blackberries, add the remaining flavors, and a pretty garnish.

Step 6 - Enjoy!

And now it is time for you to enjoy your creation! Sit back, relax, and sip on your own, signature cocktail! What is your drink called? 

Are you looking for someone else to make your cocktail tonight? Stop by The Leaf in downtown Wooster, Ohio. Our extensive cocktail menu ensures you will find a new favorite drink. 

We offer a vast menu that will make your breakfast through dinner meal a delightful experience! Chef Gina and her kitchen team develop new culinary creations and twists on classics dishes. Bring a friend or dine solo for a relaxing meal away from home.