How to Make Zests & Twists

Take your mixology skills to the next level by making lemon zest or twists to add to your cocktails. It helps aromatize and beautify your creations. You’ll need a zester as your main tool and follow these steps to make different types of garnishes.

Pigtail Twist

1. Using a channel knife or zester, peel a single long string of rind off a piece of citrus using gentle pressure.
2. Wrap the piece of zest around a bar spoon to make a spiral.
3. Gently pull the bar spoon out to maintain the shape.
4. Garnish and enjoy!

Swath Zest

1. Using a peeler or paring knife, cut an oblong strip of rind from a piece of citrus.
2. Twist over the drink to express the oils.
3. Place the zest into the drink.
4. Enjoy your cocktail!

Flamed Zest

1. Use a paring knife to cut a thin disc of rind from a piece of citrus.
2. Hold the disc, waxy side out, between your thumb and index finger.
3. Light a match and quickly pass the flame over the skin of the zest a few times to warm it.
4. Hold the flame directly in front of the zest while squeezing it in half to release and ignite the oils over a cocktail.
5. Enjoy and ignite your passion for cocktails.