Cocktails have long been a staple of social gatherings, offering a perfect blend of flavors that can suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, knowing how to mix a few classic cocktails can elevate your drink game. Here are eight timeless cocktails that you need to know.
Gin & Tonic
The Gin & Tonic is a quintessential classic cocktail that combines the botanical flavors of gin with the sweet, bubbly finish of tonic water. Originating from British colonial India, this drink was initially consumed to prevent malaria, thanks to the quinine in tonic water. Today, it’s a refreshing and sophisticated choice for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces London Dry Gin
- 4 ounces tonic water
- Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Pour the gin over the ice.
- Top with tonic water.
- Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge.
White Russian
The White Russian is a creamy, decadent cocktail made famous by the 1998 movie “The Big Lebowski.” This simple yet luxurious drink combines vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream for a rich and indulgent experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
- 1 ounce heavy cream
Instructions:
- Fill an old-fashioned glass with ice.
- Add the vodka and coffee liqueur.
- Top with heavy cream.
- Stir gently to combine.
Paper Plane
The Paper Plane is a modern classic created by bartender Sam Ross in 2007. It’s a well-balanced cocktail with a vibrant orange hue, courtesy of Aperol, and a harmonious blend of bitter, sweet, and sour flavors.
Ingredients:
- 3/4 ounce bourbon
- 3/4 ounce Aperol
- 3/4 ounce Amaro Nonino
- 3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
Aviation
The Aviation is a stunning gin cocktail with a delicate purple hue and a floral, slightly tart flavor profile. This cocktail dates back to the early 20th century and is a true gem among classic drinks.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces gin
- 1/2 ounce maraschino liqueur
- 1/4 ounce crème de violette
- 3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a cherry.
Vieux Carré
The Vieux Carré is a complex and robust cocktail hailing from New Orleans. Named after the French Quarter, this drink is a rich blend of rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, and herbal liqueurs, capturing the opulence and history of its namesake.
Ingredients:
- 3/4 ounce rye whiskey
- 3/4 ounce cognac
- 3/4 ounce sweet vermouth
- 1/4 ounce Bénédictine
- 2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
Negroni
The Negroni is an Italian classic known for its simplicity and bold, bittersweet flavor. This cocktail has gained worldwide popularity and is perfect for those who appreciate a strong, aromatic drink.
Ingredients:
- 1 ounce gin
- 1 ounce Campari
- 1 ounce sweet vermouth
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a light and bubbly Italian cocktail that’s perfect for warm weather. With its vibrant orange color and refreshing taste, it’s a favorite for aperitivo time.
Ingredients:
- 3 ounces Prosecco
- 2 ounces Aperol
- Splash of soda water
- Orange slice for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a large wine glass with ice.
- Add Prosecco and Aperol.
- Top with a splash of soda water.
- Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.
Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is a zesty and invigorating cocktail served in its signature copper mug. The combination of vodka, ginger beer, and lime makes for a refreshing drink with a bit of a kick.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces vodka
- 4 ounces ginger beer
- 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
- Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a copper mug with ice.
- Add vodka and lime juice.
- Top with ginger beer.
- Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge.