Bars charge for rocks because when you order a drink “on the rocks,” it typically means you want your drink served over ice. While this may seem like a simple request, it actually requires the bartender to use more of the base spirit, which leads to a higher cost for the establishment.
When a drink is served on the rocks, the bartender will usually pour a larger quantity of the base spirit, such as whiskey, compared to a standard pour for a mixed drink. This is because the ice will melt and dilute the drink over time, so a larger initial pour ensures that the customer still gets a full-flavored drink even as the ice melts.
For example, if you order a whiskey soda, the bartender will typically pour around 1.5 ounces of whiskey over ice and then top it off with club soda. However, if you order whiskey on the rocks, the pour can be a half-ounce or more additional, depending on the establishment’s standard pour.
The reason for this is simple: as the ice melts, it dilutes the drink and can lessen the intensity of the flavors. By starting with a larger pour, the initial flavor profile remains intact even as the ice melts. This ensures that you still enjoy a full-bodied drink until the very last sip.
Additionally, serving a drink on the rocks requires more physical effort from the bartender. They need to take the time to measure and pour a larger quantity of the base spirit, as well as add the ice to the glass. This extra effort and time spent on preparing the drink also contribute to the upcharge.
Furthermore, bars also take into account the cost of the ice itself. Ice may seem like a negligible expense, but when you consider the amount of ice used throughout the night, it can add up. Bars need to cover this cost, along with the extra pour of the base spirit, which is why they charge extra for drinks served on the rocks.
It’s worth noting that not all bars charge extra for rocks. Some establishments may have a fixed price for each type of drink, regardless of how it is served. However, in many cases, bars will charge a slightly higher price for drinks served on the rocks to account for the additional cost and effort involved.
Bars charge for rocks because serving a drink on the rocks requires a larger pour of the base spirit to compensate for dilution as the ice melts. This extra pour and the cost of the ice itself contribute to the upcharge. So, the next time you order a drink on the rocks, you can better understand why there might be a slight increase in price.