Baking may be a science, but when it comes to cocktails, a simple math equation will do. To make the perfect cocktail, you have to add the right amount of each ingredient to strike just the right balance and flavor. In fact, the proportion of ingredients is way more important than the exact measurements in ounces or milliliters. So what is this illustrious equation?

2 to 1 to 1 plus

Add two parts of a base spirit with one part sweet, one part sour plus a flavor enhancement of your choice. Not all cocktails follow this famous equation, but many of your favorites, like the margarita, do.

Start off with your base spirit of choice. For a margarita, that would be two parts of zesty tequila. Next, add one part sweet ingredient. Sweet can be anything from a simple syrup, to a cordial, to a liqueur. Following the sweet, you need to add one part sour. Typically, sour is a citrus, such as lime, lemon or orange. However, if you want to get a little crazy, alcohols like sherry and vermouth can also provide a bit of acidity to cut through the other flavors.

The plus is where you can really put a unique flare on your cocktail. Anything from herbs, such as mint and rosemary, to hot sauce, to bitters or salt can provide that extra kick of flavor. 

At just 2:1:1+, it’s never been easier to make an impressive drink on the fly. A solid supply of simple syrup and citrus around the house allows you to create a perfectly balanced cocktail at a moments notice. And if you are itching to experiment, try using different ingredients in your favorite drinks. Swap gin for vodka, lime for lemon and cordials for syrup. Trust us, this is one math problem you’ll want to try.