Flair Bartending Lesson 62: The Helicopter
After the last two weeks of painful Bump moves, we have an easy one this week. The Helicopter is simply a sideways double rotation with a bottle, thrown and caught with the same hand. It’s very basic exhibition flair (less than 1/4 full bottle) but it’s simple, fun, kind of flashy, and a heck of a lot easier than those Bumps!
The Helicopter flair move is also very practical. If you’re in a hurry, you can use it as a simple, quick move to add one second of flair before pouring the drink. I like to use it as a the first move to kick off a longer routine, like in the video: Helicopter straight into Swipe Thru into Inverse, etc.
The only other pointer tip I have is to make sure you get a double. Not only is a double rotation flashier, you’ll also find it’s easier than a single AND it’s easier to keep from spilling. If you do find that you’re having trouble spilling, try not spinning it completely sideways (horizontally). Instead, try angling the pour spout slightly up and leaving the bottom of the bottle slightly lower. And, of course, practice, practice.