to Tanis

Dear Tanis:
I’m a bartender in Taiwan. so happy u wrote a real conversation about bar conversation.
but,after read it, I have a question about the definition of “well”.
In general,customers say ” vodka from the well is fine” that means “bar vodka(house brand)is fine,I don’t have any preference(brand or favor preference)” is that right?
but from your definition: well(n)—a container at the bar for drinks.
I’m wondering why the “well” is a “container”?because in my trainning “well” is nothing to do with a container it has to do with “brand”,”cost”,”promotion”,”store keeping”.....
well, maybe our bartendering trainning in Taiwan is wrong.
so, would you tell me more about the idea of “well” in the USA?
I’m looking forward to your reply.
Leuven 2002.4.16

Hi Leuven!

You are right.. the well has nothing to do with the container in which the alchol is kept. I made a mistake on that definition. Whatever generic vodka the bar serves, is vodka from the “well”. “Top shelf” vodka would be brand name, or expensive and fancy vodka from a reputable company!

I’m sorry about any confusion! When the term “well drinks” started out it came from where the alchol was stored, but today it means just what you thought!

Hope this helps,

Tanis