How To Use A Jigger

This video covers how to measure with a jigger. Measuring with a cocktail jigger is a great way to make an accurate and repeatable cocktail recipe. You can use kitchen measuring items, however most are measuring in larger volumes — like 1/2 cup to 2 cup volumes — which aren't suited for cocktail work.

What is a Japanese Jigger?

A Japanese jigger is a taller measuring tool with a smaller mouth, which produces more accurate pours when you're estimating by eye whether you've hit the line accurately. Being off by a bit isn't great, but being off by a bit with a wide-mouth jigger is actually off by much more.

Measuring is essential for accurate cocktail creation. Using a Japanese jigger just makes it a bit easier for the average home cocktail creator. Any style will be better than trying to accurately measure with a shot glass.

Considering Your Lighting Environment

A multi-use jigger is definitely a powerful way for a home cocktail enthusiast to craft cocktails. However, when working at a bar — even a home bar — when the lights are dimmed and folks are chatting by ambient light, it can be tough to measure accurate cocktails.

Standard jiggers have two large measures (top and bottom). Having multiple jiggers in different sizes makes pouring faster since you can fill to the brim instead of reading the lines inside. Both a small and large Japanese-style jigger together cover most cocktail recipes efficiently.

Enjoy The Experience

The cocktail experience is the most important thing — don't sweat the small stuff. Get yourself a device that will measure accurately and start experimenting with fun cocktail designs.