Jigger - essential bar equipment

An essential bartender's tool is a measuring glass called a jigger. It helps to accurately measure doses of strong drinks, juices, syrups. A good jigger is the basis for the harmonious taste of cocktails and fast customer service.

The history of the appearance of the bartender's glass

Like many cocktail industry terms, the word jigger comes from English. This was the name of the smallest mast on ships. British sailors jokingly referred to the daily servings of rum as “jiggers,” which were measured out in metal cups.

The term later spread to the United States, where immigrants who built New York canals were given glasses of whiskey. The original hourglass shape was invented in 1893 by Chicago resident Cornelius Dungan. He patented his invention as an element of kitchen utensils. But the New York Herald newspaper mentioned the unusual item even earlier - in 1879. The note described the product as a cone-shaped metal cup in which unusual drinks are mixed. This proves that bartending equipment was used a century and a half ago in exactly the same way as it is now.

Types of jiggers

There are three types of glasses, based on different measurement systems. American models allow you to measure liquids in ounces. Available in singles and doubles, with a 1.5 oz wide end.

British jiggers use a liter system - a single glass contains 25 ml, a double glass contains 50 ml. Japanese equipment is distinguished by the exquisite shape of the cups. It is designed for two systems - American and British.

Jiggers also differ in shape:

• The hourglass is the classic type used by most bartenders. Two cone-shaped glasses are connected in the middle;
• bell - shorter than the traditional version. Equipped with wide cups with a rim that protects against overflow;
• Japanese - retains the hourglass shape, but is supplemented with a protective rim. Two cups inside are marked to measure out small portions of drinks;
• stepped - a simple design that resembles a glass with divisions. Recommended for novice bartenders.

In addition to the three popular forms, there are many innovations. “Bells” are often equipped with a rubber handle for comfort. Manufacturers of barware create original new items reminiscent of sports cups and antique bowls. Elite establishments use measuring cups made of precious metals.

Professional bartenders also pay attention to the size of the jigger. The standard version holds 1.5 oz (44 ml) in a large cup, 1 oz (30 ml) in a small cup. Nowadays, inventory is produced in different sizes, but the proportion is always maintained - one side is half the size of the other.

What kind of jigger does a bar need?

Initially, bartenders used only the classic model - the hourglass glass. Now the choice is huge - there are products with spouts, nozzles, and handles. Each mixologist chooses what works for his signature drinks.

If you like aesthetic utensils, pay attention to Japanese models. They are elegant in shape and equipped with measuring divisions, which is convenient when creating complex cocktails.

Jigger helps solve three problems:

• accurately measure volumes of liquids;
• speed up the preparation of cocktails;
• ensure the convenience of the bartender's work.

Therefore, the first selection criterion is the presence of clear markings. It will be easier for a novice bartender if the marks are made inside and outside. Glass models are usually designed this way, but they are impractical. Experienced mixologists use sets that include several jiggers - stainless steel, copper, bronze.

Also pay attention to the weight of the product. Weighted bells are more stable than hourglasses. It is convenient if the product is equipped with a rubber handle and textile strips that prevent slipping.

How to work with a jigger

At first glance, filling a measuring cup seems easy. But to speed up your work, you need to master three techniques:

• take with two fingers - the jigger is grasped with the thumb and forefinger, pointing the palm upward. This way you can pour the liquid with one turn of your wrist;
• stick to the edge - the measuring cup is brought as close as possible to the glass into which the drink is to be poured. This way the bartender saves time without the risk of spilling the cocktail;
• holding the bottle by the neck - this method helps to pour in small portions. Inexperienced mixologists practice filling a measuring cup using empty bottles, then plain water.

Popular jigger manufacturers

The most popular among bartenders is equipment from five companies:

• APS is a German company that produces stainless steel products. Offers traditional hourglass shaped measuring cups, 20-60 ml. Jiggers are equipped with markings and a protective rim. Silver and black models have a laconic designzaynom;
• Paderno is an Italian manufacturer specializing in kitchen equipment. Jiggers are made of stainless steel. The range includes hourglass, bell and graduated measuring cups.
• Ilsa is an Italian brand with 75 years of experience in the production of barware. Creates many variations of stainless steel jiggers. Thanks to their durability and aesthetic design, Ilsa products have earned excellent reviews from bartenders online.
• ProHotel is a Chinese company leading in the field of kitchen equipment. Produces jiggers with a volume of 25-60 ml, traditional shapes and “bells”. ProHotel products are considered budget products and are therefore recommended for small bars.
• Lumian is an Italian company that creates luxury bar equipment. The materials used to make jiggers are stainless steel, bronze, and copper. Lumian designers give their products their signature elegant design. The products are aimed at expensive cocktail bars and restaurants.

Whatever style of jigger you choose will make your job easier and help you master the art of creating complex drinks.