5 apps for the budding mixologist

Creating your own cocktails is something of an art form, requiring a knack for unique tastes and devising interesting combinations. It's easy to get started right in your own kitchen, though, even if you're a complete beginner. Try using one of these fine apps to get you started. They cover thousands of different drinks for you to test out, and some even feature bartending tips and tricks.

Mixology is an oldie but a goodie. With a library of over 8,000 cocktails, from familiar favorites to rare recipes you might have never even heard of, Mixology has it all. It'll give you tailored bartending tips for different drinks, and can find nearby liquor stores or bars.

If you want to mix up a drink but don't feel like going outside, simply plug the liquor you have in your home bar into Cocktail Flow and the app will generate a list of tasty drink recipes to accomodate. Drinks don't have to be alcoholic either--the app's database also features recipes for smoothies and virgin cocktails.

Distiller is your go-to app while out shopping. This pocket liquor advisor has hundreds of reviews for different bottles of liquor and spirits. Each bottle has a descriptive flavor profile, too, if you want to see if the liquor meshes with your own personal tastes.

Liquor Cabinet is a bit similar to Cocktail Flow, letting you select recipes by filtering the liquor you currently have in your home bar. Perhaps its coolest feature is that it allows you to search for recipes based on your current stock that you haven't tried before, so you can explore new things without making a special shopping trip. But if you do find yourself at the liquor store, you can select drink recipes and Liquor Cabinet will draw up a shopping list based on what you're missing from your personal collection.


Once you've gained some expertise, why not step up your mixing game with Bartender's Choice,created by Sam Ross from famed New York Cocktail Bar, Milk & Honey? The app features more challenging, innovative drinks as well as tips on how best to prepare and garnish your beverages.

Mixing drinks is fun, especially when you throw in a splash of creativity. Practice using some of the apps listed above, and you'll be sure to impress your guests at that next big party.

Did we miss one of your favorite bartending apps? Share in the comments!