What Types of Alcohol Are Served Cold?

Last Updated on December 7, 2022 by Jason Nguyen

If you want to make sure your guests have a great time at the party, you need to make sure you have a nice selection of adult beverages available. In addition, you need to make sure that you serve them properly. For example, there are some situations where you need to serve the drink that’s called at that moment.

Even though it can be a hassle to have a refrigerator, ice, and a cooler behind the bar, they can make a significant difference in the taste of the drinks. What are a few examples of alcoholic beverages that are meant to be served cold?

Learn more below, and make sure you have ice and a refrigerator available if you want to serve the drinks properly.

Beer and Cider

When it comes to adult beverages that are meant to be served cold, the first thing a lot of people think about is beer. You probably have nightmares about drinking warm beer, so you should make sure you put a few beers in the cooler before the party.

It will take a few hours for them to cool down, and beer is always going to taste better cold. You definitely do not want to put ice in it, but you may want to put the glass in the freezer ahead of time.

In addition, cider is also meant to be served cold. There are some people who like the taste of a sweet, crisp, hard cider, and it always tastes better if it is cold.

White Wine

There are certain types of wine that are meant to be served cold as well. Even though red wine is generally meant to be served at room temperature, white wine is meant to be served cold.

Even though there are some people who put ice in white wine, this is typically not recommended. That is because the ice will eventually melt, diluting the flavor of the glass.

Therefore, if you plan on serving white wine at a party, make sure you put it in the refrigerator ahead of time.

In addition, after you open the white wine, you need to put it back in the refrigerator if you’re not going to drink the entire bottle.

If you really want to go the extra mile, you should put white wine in a container full of ice until you are ready to pour it again. That way, the wind doesn’t warm up as the party goes along.

Certain Spirits

Finally, there are certain types of liquor that are meant to be served cold as well. Even though the spirits themselves are generally fine to be left at room temperature, you will want to put the mixers in the refrigerator ahead of time.

In addition, many mixed drinks are meant to be served over ice. For example, if you are making a Moscow Mule, this is usually served over ice.

If you want your mixed drinks to taste delicious, make sure you serve them at the right temperature. Many of them are meant to be served over ice, even if the spirits themselves are not.

Serve Your Drinks Properly

In the end, these are a few examples of drinks that are meant to be served cold. Even though you might be able to get away with serving some beverages, such as red wine, at room temperature, there are lots of alcoholic beverages that are meant to be served cold.

If you want to go the extra mile, you may want to consider putting the glasses in the freezer ahead of time. That way, it will be easier for your guests to keep their beverages cold as they enjoy them during the party.

FAQs

Are vodka shots served cold?

The short answer is yes. Many people enjoy taking shots of vodka chilled, as it can provide a refreshing and smooth sensation when consumed. While some argue that drinking cold vodka dulls the flavors, most find that it enhances them.

Whatever your preference may be, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your vodka shot at any temperature. If you prefer a cold shot, store your vodka in the refrigerator or freezer for a few hours before pouring it into a glass.

For extra chill, put some ice cubes in the glass. If you prefer something warmer, vodka can be served at room temperature or heated slightly over low heat.

Are tequila shots served cold?

This is a question that many people ask, especially when in doubt about the traditions of tequila drinking.

In Mexico, it is traditional to drink tequila shots chilled or at room temperature without any extra mixers such as lime juice or salt.

The chill factor helps to bring out the flavors of the aged spirit and adds an extra layer of complexity to the drink.

Some people enjoy drinking tequila straight from the freezer, but this is generally not recommended as it can affect the flavor and make it difficult to detect its nuances.

What types of alcohol should be refrigerated?

Generally speaking, most hard liquors such as vodka, gin, whiskey, and rum do not need to be refrigerated. However, it is always a good idea to keep them in the refrigerator if they are going to be left unopened for an extended period of time.

Additionally, wine should also be refrigerated unless you plan on consuming it within a few days. Liqueurs, such as amaretto and creme de menthe, should also be stored in the refrigerator.

Finally, any type of pre-mixed cocktail or hard cider should always be refrigerated before consuming.

Does rum need to be refrigerated after opening?

The answer depends on what type of rum you have. Darker varieties such as spiced rums and aged rums should be refrigerated after opening, as they are more susceptible to spoilage due to their higher sugar content.

Light or white rum can generally be stored at room temperature but will keep longer in the refrigerator if it is not consumed immediately.

Regardless of the type of rum, if you notice any changes in flavor or smell after opening the bottle, it should be discarded as it has likely gone bad. For optimal shelf life and taste, always keep your rum stored in a cool, dark place away from sunlight and strong odors.