10 Classic Cocktails Every Home Bartender Should Know

Whether you're an aspiring bartender or just love a good drink, knowing the classics is essential. You don't need to be a mixology expert to know how to make great cocktails; all it takes is some practice, patience and of course knowledge of the basics.

With that in mind, we bring you 10 classic cocktails every home bartender should know, from sweet Martinis and Mojitos to spicy Bloody Mary’s and more! 

10 Classic Cocktails

Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been around for centuries. They are the classic drinks that helped define modern mixology and shaped the way we enjoy cocktails today.

The classic Old Fashioned cocktail is a simple mix of whiskey, bitters, and sugar. It is the perfect balance of sweet and bitter that makes it a timeless favourite. The combination of these ingredients creates a smooth, flavourful drink that can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks. 

Margarita

Margarita cocktails are a must-have for any gathering. Whether it’s an intimate get-together with friends or an elaborate celebration, this iconic drink is sure to be a hit.

The base of the cocktail is tequila, which can be paired with either lime juice or orange liqueur. Then the mixture is shaken with ice and strained into a glass, usually a margarita or hurricane glass.

Martini

Martini cocktails have been around since the late 1800s and are a classic favourite among cocktail lovers.

The Martini is usually made up of two ingredients – gin and dry vermouth, though there are variations that call for other ingredients such as olives, bitters, or even flavoured liqueurs. It is often garnished with a lemon twist or an olive. 

Manhattan

A Manhattan is a timeless classic drink option, perfect for any occasion. Made with rye whiskey and sweet vermouth, the Manhattan is garnished with a maraschino cherry or orange peel for a distinctive flavour.

The drink quickly gained popularity throughout the United States and beyond, becoming a true classic. Manhattan cocktails are available in many different varieties, each with its own unique flavour profile. 

Daiquiri

The Daiquiri is a classic Cuban cocktail made with rum, lime juice, and sugar. It's one of the most popular cocktails in the world and for good reason - its sweet-tart flavour and smooth texture make it an easy favourite.

Traditionally served as a straight-up or on the rocks, this timeless drink can also be blended or frozen. It's the perfect cocktail for a hot summer day but can be enjoyed year-round. The Daiquiri is easy to make and only requires a few ingredients - rum, lime juice, and sugar. 

Negroni

Negroni is a classic Italian apéritif composed of one part gin, one part vermouth rosso, and one part Campari. It can be served either on the rocks or stirred with ice.

The drink is a stunningly simple yet intensely flavourful combination that has gone on to become an international classic enjoyed by many around the world. It's traditionally garnished with an orange peel and served in a rocks glass with ice. With its unique flavour profile, a Negroni is perfect for those who like their drinks strong yet balanced. 

Bloody Mary

Bloody Mary is a classic brunch cocktail, made with vodka, tomato juice, and a variety of spices. It can be garnished with any number of ingredients such as lemon wedges, celery stalks, and olives.

The drink has been around since the early 1900s, but its exact origin story is unclear. One popular legend holds that the beverage was named after a British queen, Mary I of England (also known as "Bloody Mary").

No matter its origin story, Bloody Mary remains one of the most popular cocktails around. It is usually served in a tall glass and can be enjoyed with brunch or at any time of the day. 

Sidecar

Sidecar is a classic cocktail that has been around for over a century. It is made with brandy, orange liqueur, and lemon juice. The drink can be served in an Old Fashioned glass or martini glass.

Traditionally the drink is garnished with a lemon twist but some variations may include oranges, cherries, or other garnishes. The origin of the Sidecar is a bit mysterious but it's thought to have been invented in Paris sometime in the early 1900s. It likely got its name from the popular sidecars, which were motorised bike carriages that could be attached and detached as needed. 

Whiskey Sour

An iconic drink, Whiskey Sour is beloved by many for its sweet-tart flavour and smooth texture. The classic recipe calls for whiskey, lemon juice, sugar, and egg white or egg yolk.

It’s a simple combination of ingredients that results in a surprisingly complex flavour. The key to a great Whiskey Sour is using quality ingredients. The whiskey should be of high quality and smooth in taste, as it will be the main feature of the drink. Lemon juice and sugar are essential, as they provide balance to the whiskey’s bite.

Gimlet

Gimlet cocktails are a timeless classic and a great choice for any drinks menu. With its simple, yet distinct flavour, it is sure to be a hit at parties or other gatherings. The recipe is quite straightforward – simply combine the gin of your choice with Rose’s lime juice in equal parts and serve over ice. To add some extra zing, you can add a few drops of bitters or muddle some fresh herbs like mint. The classic Gimlet is served with a lime wedge as garnish.

If you’re looking to switch things up, there are also many variations on the traditional Gimlet recipe. You can experiment with different spirits such as vodka or tequila. 

Recreate these Classic Cocktails at Home 

Step into the world of mixology with Sessions Liquor, a local bottle store where you can effortlessly bring the timeless elegance and sophistication of classic cocktails to life. Select from their fine array of craft spirits, artisanal bitters, and premium mixers, each designed to accentuate the rich flavours and aromas of the age-old libations.

Whether you're yearning for a refreshing Gimlet, a cosy Old Fashioned, or a sultry Negroni, Sessions Liquor has got you covered. Their treasure trove of ingredients will become your key to unlocking the secrets of these iconic concoctions.

So don your mixology hat and dive into the realm of distinguished drinks, reinventing and relishing the captivating charm of classic cocktails using the delectable components found in Sessions Liquor.