How to Pick Your Barspoon Length

It’s just a spoon right? Not quite.

One of the bartender's most iconic tools is the barspoon. From creating simple stirred classics to fascinating flair, this tool comes in a number of lengths and textures. These design choices are all intentional and serve a variety of purposes.

Ever wonder why some barspoons are spiraled? It’s for pouring bubbly liquids such as soda water or cava down the spoon, maintaining bubble integrity. Yes, “bubble integrity” is important! After all, you're often adding bubbles to a shaken or stirred cocktail that is “flat”. If you’re choosing to add bubbles and the drink calls for it you want them to retain their carbonation to produce the desired effect and mouthfeel in the finished cocktail. 

It’s the little things, you know? All of these nuances add up to create those unforgettable cocktail experiences.

Speaking of nuance, why are some barspoons longer than others? Depending on the situation, you may need a different length spoon for the job at hand. One length is not necessarily better than the other, however each type of barspoon has a purpose.

Short Spoon Pros:

• Quicker stirs taking up less space behind the bar (elbows don’t need to be extended quite as far, this is useful when there’s multiple bartenders behind the bar).
• Better for pouring bubbles down the spiral of the spoon. (less distance the liquid has to travel)
• Easier to hold while measuring barspoons for a cocktail or floating with the back of the spoon.
• An easier stir for shorter bartenders (bar height is a factor here as well)

Long Spoon Pros:

• Arguably a more fluid stir with the longer stem providing more control thanks to good old physics.
• Easier to stir multiple cocktails with multiple barspoons at the same time.
• More surface area of the spoon’s stem allows for different grips and various points of balance.
• A longer barspoon is easier to twirl, when you feel like showing off.
• A more comfortable stir for taller bartenders.
  
  Conclusion: