What Exactly Is A Rail Drink?

The next time you go out for a drink, take a closer look at the bar and how the bartender uses it. Bottles are placed behind the bar in a very specific way. To maximize the bartender's efficiency, they are typically organized by how often they will be used. Gin and vodka are within reach, but they may need a ladder to get to that spendy bottle of Pappy Van Winkle.

The speed rail is a compartment on the bar where the most popular types of liquor are placed so the bartender can easily and quickly reach them. It is typically made of stainless steel and is often sold as a handy accessory affixed to the part of the bar near the sinks. Cocktails made from booze placed on this rail are known as rail drinks. 

This all means that rail drinks, also known as well drinks, are made from the least expensive liquors. When you ask a bartender to use rail gin for your gin and tonic, it means you won't be getting Bombay Sapphire in your cocktail. However, despite the fact that rail drinks are made with cheaper liquor, bars still make good money from them.

In short, establishments' profit margins are higher when they serve rail drinks. First, they are affordable, so customers don't hesitate to order more than one. Second, they're generally easy to make, meaning customers don't have to wait long for their beverage to be made. That short wait time increases overall satisfaction with the establishment, and satisfaction can readily mean return business, leading to a greater and more reliable profit. 

The speed rail isn't only for alcohol, either. Commonly used items such as simple syrup for Old Fashioneds, mixers, and the often key cocktail component of bitters can often be found there as well. Basically, anything a bartender needs to have at their fingertips can be stored on the speed rail for easy access.

Finally, rail drinks aren't always low-quality, as some liquors that end up on the rail are pretty good for the price. However, if you insist on ordering a cocktail made with premium spirits like Grey Goose vodka or a Tanqueray and tonic, that means you're asking for a call drink.