Cocktails can be stirred, on the rocks, shaken, neat, straight up, with a kick or dirty.

However you may order them, it goes without saying that everyone loves a well made cocktail.

It can be said that cocktails have inspired not only the imagination of bar tenders all over the world but also famous artists, poets, world leaders and parties held by leading socialites.

Compared with the perceptions of old, cocktails are now held in much higher esteem and the days of them being seen as an additional extra are well and truly over as they now form an integral part of any modern chic establishment.

What we now find is that the variety of cocktails is on the increase and this mainly due to the developing tastes of the ever more knowledgeable cocktail drinker.

Right now the cocktail industry is booming and with a modest amount of commitment, practice and training then the world of a top mixologist is within reach.

If you are a bar owner or supervisor who is looking to train their staff in the art of mixing cocktails or even just someone with an interest in the subject then you will be best served by learning about the history of cocktails.

Included in this would be the classics, their origins, evolution and the associated intrigue and glamour.

The benefits of doing this will be to enhance their appreciation and knowledge of cocktail making and will allow them to entertain their customers.

The next logical step to progressing to a higher level of cocktail bartender competency is to learn your way around the different components parts of cocktail equipment along with when to and how to stir and shake.

It is essential that these skills are mastered before moving on to the art of mixology; being a mixologist ultimately means that your creative side will be given free reign and you will be expected to create your own recipes and techniques that will be added to cocktail menus, lists and others bartending styles.

Given time you may feel that entering the competition circuits is a viable option that is open to you or you may even consider that the often lucrative paid work with drinks brands is a possibility.