Definition of chaser

The word "chaser" refers to a drink that is consumed after finishing a cocktail or spirit. The term comes from the idea of chasing the initial shot with another beverage to help mask the strong flavor or burn typically associated with alcohol. The practice of following a shot with a chaser dates back to the mid-19th century in England. The custom, known as "chasing the gin," was commonly associated with working-class men who drank gin as a means of coping with the harsh realities of poverty and urban life. These men would chase their gin with a simple mixer such as water, lemon juice, or beer to help cleanse their palate and ease the harshness of the alcohol. The most traditional chaser is undoubtedly water, as it is the simplest and most effective at cleansing the mouth between drinks. However, other popular chasers include lemon-lime soda, cranberry juice, orange juice, and tomato juice. Some people even prefer to chase with a small serving of spicy food like pickles or pepperoni. As the tradition of chasing has continued to evolve, various cocktails have also emerged as popular chasers. Bloody Mary and Caesar cocktails, for example, have become popular choices for chasing shots due to the complexity of their flavors and the relief they provide in calming the tongue after a fiery shot. In summary, the term "chaser" refers to a secondary drink consumed after drinking an initial shot. This practice originated in the mid-19th century in England as a means of masking the harsh flavor of gin, and has since evolved into a diverse range of drinks that help freshen the palate between cocktails.