Classic cocktails are classics for a reason. They've stood up to the test of time, have been loved for decades (in some cases, more than a century), and are often made with a simple ingredient list. And they're delicious.
As home bartending and entertaining continue to rise, these classics are essential for your bartending and entertaining menu. Their flavor profile and complexity are wide, so there's definitely something for everyone on this list.
Pick your poison and enjoy!
1. The Dry Martini
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Possibly the king of all classic cocktails, the martini is an enduring symbol of elegance and sophistication. Made with gin or vodka plus a bit of vermouth, it's simple but tastes complex. You'll feel like you're in a James Bond movie, even if you're just chilling on your couch. Depending on how you make them, a martini can be dry and crisp, or slightly more sweet and floral. Garnish with olives and olive juice (dirty) for a slight briny taste or with a twist of lemon for something more refreshing.
2. The Manhattan
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Who doesn't love a boozy, sweet, and spicy Manhattan and the 1950's steak house nostalgia it invokes? The best manhattan recipe is one that sticks as close to the original as possible. It's beautiful in its simplicity. You've got a complex, balanced cocktail with three ingredients and a garnish. It has a smooth and slightly sweet taste with a rich and warming quality that comes from the whiskey. The sweet vermouth adds a layer of complexity with its herbal and fruity flavors, while the bitters provide a hint of spice and balance out the sweetness. Depending on the type of whiskey used, a Manhattan can have different flavor profiles ranging from smoky and robust to mellow and caramel-like. Some people like to garnish their Manhattan with a cherry, adding a fruity sweetness to the drink.
3. Bellinis
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Bright, fruity, sweet, and refreshing, there's nothing not to love here. Plus, they're easy to make! It's a sweet, fruity, and effervescent drink perfect for special occasions or just a relaxing evening with friends. The mixture of the fresh peach flavor and the sparkling wine creates a unique and delicious taste that's sure to leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied.
4. Espresso Martini
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Definitely a new classic; this drink is still seeing a resurgence. Espresso martinis are rich, strong, smooth, and perfect. Plus, they take about four ingredients and come together incredibly quickly.
5. Sangria
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White sangria, with its refreshing blend of white wine, citrus fruit, and sweetness, will blow you away. It's a game changer for any summer gathering or happy hour. This white sangria is a refreshing and fruity cocktail traditionally made with red wine. White wine is used to create a lighter and crisp-feeling drink.
6. Paper Plane
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The paper plane cocktail is an easy-drinking modern classic. It's easy to prepare and is absolutely a hit with crowds. This drink is super well-balanced and perfect for people just entering the cocktails world.
7. Limoncello Spritz
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The limoncello spritz is one of the best Italian aperativos. It's so refreshing, and it's bursting with lemon and bubbles. Who could say no to that? It's simple, easy, elegant, and quick to prepare.
8. Pina Coladas (On the Rocks)
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Don't feel like busting out the blender? Don't worry - these coladas are shaken over ice and then poured, and that's it. There's nothing better than a pina colada on the rocks. You get all the same flavor as the original: pineapple, coconut, lime, and even a hint of cinnamon, but without the big production.
9. Mint Juleps
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A Southern staple, especially on Kentucky Derby weekend, this concoction of crushed mint, sugar, ice, and bourbon is cool and refreshing. Of course, the bourbon brings an edge to the flavor profile, lending some balance to the cocktail.
10. The Negroni
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This classic Negroni recipe is a fantastic weapon in your home bartending tool kit. Bitter and booze-forward but offset by the gin and sweet vermouth, it's a super classy and sophisticated aperitif to enjoy with your guests before dinner.
11. Amaretto Sour
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An Amaretto Sour is a sweet and tangy cocktail made with amaretto, lemon juice, egg whites, and simple syrup. The amaretto has a sweet and nutty flavor balanced out by the tartness of the lemon juice, while the simple syrup adds a sweetness. The egg white adds a layer of luxurious foam to the top of the cocktail. It's a great cocktail for those who love their drinks on the sweeter side, and it's perfect for sipping on a hot day or after a long day of work.
Hi, I'm Cara! I'm a food writer, journalist, and recipe developer. I'm obsessed good food, good wine, good cocktails and entertaining. I've picked up a few tips over the years, and love sharing them with others.
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