What are molecular cocktails?

Molecular mixology is the practice of mixing drinks using science to manipulate ingredients on the molecular level. It was inspired by molecular gastronomy, which employs similar techniques with food. In both food and drinks, the purpose is to manipulate states of matter to create new flavors, mouthfeels, textures, and visuals that enhance the experience. The practice of molecular mixology was widespread in the late 2000s and early 2010s. At the time, there was a focus on spectacular effects in the cocktail world, and molecular mixology fit right in. Popular techniques of molecular mixology include the use of foams, liquid nitrogen, gels, mists, heat, solidifying liquids, and much more. At the heart of molecular mixology are a bunch of processes and ingredients that sound like they belong in a science lab rather than a bar. For example, calcium lactate and sodium alginate are used to make edible cocktail spheres using a process called spherification. Molecular mojito spheres are one popular example, and they're essentially a geeky take on jello shots. Another common process is emulsification, which uses an emulsifier to bind two liquids that don't usually mix, such as fats. Cocktails may also feature suspension, in which an ingredient like xantham gum thickens a liquid so it will suspend within another liquid.