When it comes to timeless cocktails, there’s something magical about the classics. These iconic drinks have stood the test of time, each one with its own unique history and flavor profile. Whether you’re hosting a party, impressing guests, or just perfecting your home bartending skills, mastering these 20 classic cocktails is a must.
From the smooth Old Fashioned to the refreshing Daiquiri, these drinks offer a journey through cocktail history, each sip a reminder of why they remain beloved staples today. Ready to elevate your bartending game? Let’s dive into the recipes and techniques behind the best classic cocktails!
Old Fashioned
The classic of classic cocktails, the most ordered cocktail in the world, so simple and so easy – the Old Fashioned can be made with almost any dark spirit now, but the classic old fashioned recipe is made with bourbon, so bourbon it is
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Gin Martini
The Gin Martini is king of all cocktails and very personal in the making. It can be a two or three ingredient cocktail. You decide with or without orange bitters.
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Margarita
This easy classic cocktail recipe for the Margarita brings summer to any party! With a side of chips and salsa, it's really the perfect summer cocktail.
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Negroni
Invented in Florence over 100 years old, the Negroni is one of the most popular cocktails with its equal parts of gin, red vermouth and Campari, only garnished with orange peel.
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Manhattan
Experience urban sophistication with a Manhattan cocktail. Rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and aromatic bitters create a classic elixir, invoking the spirit of New York in every luxurious sip.
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Daiquiri
Love rum cocktails? This classic Daiquiri made with rum. lime and sugar couldn't be easier. Not just for summer!, but all the year round!
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Mojito
The Mojito cocktail is among the most loved cocktails there are. It is super easy to make and such a refreshing drink. Mint and lime are the perfect combination for a hot day in summer.
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Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan cocktail is a classic drink typically made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and freshly squeezed lime juice, resulting in a sweet-tart and refreshing beverage.
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Whisky Sour
The Whisky Sour is a gem of a cocktail! A classic cocktail and the perfect way to enjoy whisky in those warm summer months.
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Bloody Mary
Yes, the Bloody Mary, another brunch favorite, was invented by a Frenchman. In the 1920s, Fernand Petiot was a bartender at Harry's New York Bar in Paris. He added a bit of spice to vodka and tomato juice. Voila, a classic was born!
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Gin and Tonic
Create the classic Gin and Tonic cocktail with our simple recipe. Perfectly balanced, refreshing, and garnished to your liking.
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Trader Vic’s Mai Tai
The Trader Vic's Mai Tai is a classic cocktail made with aged Jamaican rum, fresh lime juice, orgeat syrup, and orange liqueur, offering a balanced and flavorful tropical drink experience.
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Sazerac
Embark on a journey of flavor with the Sazerac cocktail. Rye whiskey, absinthe, sugar, and bitters dance in a timeless concoction, celebrating the essence of New Orleans.
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Piña Colada
The Piña Colada is the most popular cocktail on the web! This recipe will have you enjoying this pineapple & coconut cocktail in no time!
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Sidecar
You can discuss its origins while making the Sidecar. Whether it was born at the Ritz Paris or Harry's Bar Paris or in London, we don't care. As it's made with the very French cognac and Cointreau, we are voting for France!
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Caipirinha
Transport your senses to Brazil with the Caipirinha. Muddle limes with sugar, add Cachaça, and ice—a zesty, refreshing cocktail capturing the spirit of lively Brazilian celebrations.
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Aperol Spritz
Embrace the vibrant spirit of Italy with an Aperol Spritz. Revel in the effervescence of Prosecco and the bittersweet allure of Aperol for a refreshing and classic sip.
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Kentucky Derby Mint Julep
This Mint Julep recipe comes to you directly from Kentucky. Serve it in a silver cup and don your hat – it's Kentucky Derby time!
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French 75
Master the classic French 75 cocktail with our recipe. Combining gin, champagne, lemon juice, and sugar for a sparkling and refreshing drink. This recipe is by Abigail Gullo from her restaurant Loa in New Orleans!
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Tom Collins
The Tom Collins is a classic cocktail made with gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water, typically served over ice and garnished with a lemon slice and a cherry. It offers a refreshing and citrusy beverage experience.
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