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Technique

Layer

To layer a drink is to pour its ingredients one at a time so each sits on top of the one below, giving separate bands of color.

In practice

Pour the heaviest liquid first, usually the sweetest one with the least alcohol, then pour each next one slowly over the back of a barspoon. Layered shots like the B-52 work because sugary liqueurs are denser than spirits.

Drinks to try it with

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Layer, in short

What does layer mean in cocktails?

To layer a drink is to pour its ingredients one at a time so each sits on top of the one below, giving separate bands of color.