Most of the cocktails that we enjoy today were created over a century ago. Classic cocktails are timeless delicacies that have tantalized drinkers for generations. Imagine a younger version of yourself, say your grandma, enjoying the same martini mixture you enjoyed last night!
Of course, the modern scene has a beautiful selection of cocktails that will astound you. However, the classic cocktails always seem to stand out. They have stood the test of time, and remain as amazing as ever.
Even though the booze poured in classic cocktails have changed over the years, they remain to be our local favorite cocktails as they’re refreshing and unique. We keep going back to classic cocktails for a good reason.
1. Dry Martini
If you’re a fancy drinker, you’ve probably had a dry martini more times than you can count. Most people who’re just getting introduced to cocktails usually begin with the dry martini cocktail.
Even though many fancy cocktails are referred to as ‘martini’, there’s only one original classic dry martini cocktail.
This drink is comprised of dry vermouth-hence the name dry- and gin. The cocktail glass usually comes with garnishing to add a hint of bitters. You could have yours with lemon twist or an olive, depending on your preference.
The dry martini cocktail is a simple yet refreshing drink that’s a must-have for anyone who’s exploring different alcoholic drinks.
2. Manhattan
Second on our list is the Manhattan, one of the most popular alcoholic drinks whose major component is whiskey. Manhattan is to whiskey what Martini is to gin.
Since whiskeys are so complicated, this is not a simple cocktail. Many different types of whiskey have been used to make a Manhattan drink over the years.
However, traditionally, the Manhattan should be made with rye whiskey, a drink that fell out of production in the 20th century. As a result, Canadian whiskey found its way into this classic cocktail, and for years, mixologists have used bourbon in place of rye whiskey.
3. Old-Fashioned
As the name suggests, this is an old-fashioned cocktail, and it allows you to savor the taste of different whiskeys in one sip. If you plan on making it yourself, you’ll first need to learn the muddling technique.
Making an old-fashioned cocktail is more about your technique than the ingredients themselves. The beauty of an old-fashioned cocktail is you are free to use fruits and spirits. There are so many ways to make this cocktail fun and interesting.
4. Mint Julep
This is one of the best bourbon cocktails out there, so if you love bourbon, this is your drink. The Mint Julep is also made through the muddling technique; however, in this case, you’ll be using mint.
The Mint Julep was around as early as the American Revolution, which means it’s one of the oldest cocktails in history.
5. Mojito
If you love rum, you’ll love a Mojito. This refreshing cocktail is very easy to make, and it’s almost as old as the Mint Julep. If you have a muddler, making yourself a cocktail will take only a few minutes.
The beauty of a Mojito is that you can customize it to your preference. Nothing beats downing a glass of a Mojito cocktail on a hot summer afternoon.
6. Margarita
Let’s hear it for the beloved Margarita! Whether or not you like cocktails, I bet you’ve heard of Margaritas. Like the Dry Martini, the Margarita is a fancy drink that comes in different colors.
The beauty of this classic cocktail is that you can achieve a wide array of flavors. Which means each time you have a glass, you have a whole new experience.
If you want to stick with the classic recipe, that’s great because it’s as simple as they come. The modern variations are a little complex, but after a few tries, you’ll catch the drift.
For the traditional recipe, all you’ll need is lime juice, tequila and triple.sec. This original recipe allows you to appreciate tequila’s flavor; it’s the ultimate Margarita experience.
Conclusion
Cocktails are excellent drinks that you can enjoy alone or with friends. These classic cocktails have been enjoyed through generations, and they remain to be many people’s favorite. If you’re only getting started on your cocktail journey, make sure you try each one of these classic cocktails. Be sure to find out about different recipe variations so you can savor all cocktail flavors.