12 Classic Cocktails You Should Know How to Make

April 13, 2025 by Jeffrey T. Poss

1. Old Fashioned

One of the most recognizable drinks worldwide, the Old Fashioned defines simplicity and refinement. Made with whiskey—usually bourbon or rye—sugar, bitters, and a hint of citrus highlight the alcohol rather than masking it. The early 1800s is when it first emerged, and its simple, spirit-forward appeal has helped it to endure.

Make one by mixing a sugar cube with a few dashes of Angostura bitters in a glass, adding a big ice cube, pouring in two ounces of whiskey, swirling, and garnishing with an orange peel. The secret is balance: the sugar and bitters accentuate the richness of the whiskey without overwhelming it. For those who want strong, rich tastes and some historical background in their glass, this is a go-to.

2. Martini

The Martini is stylish, modern, and constantly personalizing. Usually composed of gin and dry vermouth and garnished with an olive or lemon twist, the martini evolved into a mid-20th-century image of refinement thanks in great part to Hollywood and, naturally, James Bond.

A traditional dry martini asks for 2.5 ounces of gin and 0.5 ounces of dry vermouth mixed with ice and poured into a cold glass. Some like it “dirty,” either with vodka rather than gin or olive brine. The secret is really nothing but good stir and icy cold components. The martini is a classic you should know both inside and outside, regardless of your preferred shaking or stirring motion.

3. Manhattan

Rich in history from New York City, the Manhattan is a strong, rather sweet drink. The Manhattan, typically served in a cocktail glass adorned with a cherry garnish, is crafted from rye whiskey (or bourbon), sweet vermouth, and a few dashes of bitters.

The interaction between the floral sweetness of the vermouth and the spice of the whiskey produces a strong, deep taste. To prepare one, combine two ounces of whiskey, one ounce of sweet vermouth, and two dashes of Angostura bitters with ice, then pour into a glass. Any future home mixologist has to know the Manhattan.

4. Margarita

Lime juice, triple sec (or Cointreau), and simple syrup or agave combine in the Margarita, a tequila-based drink ideal for summer. It could be straight up with a salted rim, mixed, or on the rocks.

Shake two ounces of tequila, one ounce of lime juice, and one ounce of triple sec with ice, then pour into a glass. One of the most popular drinks around is this one, as the earthy bite of citrus, sweetness, and tequila balances out each other. Try flavored variations like mango, jalapeño, or blood orange for more flair.

5. Negroni

Unquestionably fashionable, the Negroni is bold and bitter. Perfect as a pre-dinner aperitif, made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, it has a powerful taste.

Strain one ounce of gin, one ounce of Campari, and one ounce of sweet vermouth with ice and pour over fresh ice in a rocks glass for a Negroni. Dress with an orange twist. Any bartender should have the Negroni on hand, as its striking color and strong taste make it a drink to remember.

6. Mojito

The Mojito is a Cuban staple, crisp and zing-filled. Made with white rum, fresh mint, lime juice, sugar, and soda water, this summer favorite is as fun to consume as it is to prepare.

In a glass, muddle sugar and mint; add lime juice, rum, and ice; top with club soda. Stir just lightly; garnish with a mint leaf. Perfect for laid-back drinking, the Mojito’s clean, herbal freshness makes it a great hot-weather beverage.

7. Daiquiri

Forget the frozen, too-sweet variations; a real Daiquiri is a basic, sophisticated rum drink blended with lime juice and sugar. It highlights the rum’s quality and is vibrant and citrusy.

Shakes 2 ounces white rum, 1 ounce lime juice, and 0.75 ounces simple syrup with ice and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Made well, the Daiquiri is among the most mouthwatering beverages you will ever taste; it’s about balance and refreshment.

8. Cosmopolitan

Sex and the City helped the Cosmopolitan to become a contemporary icon. The delicious drink, however, is central to its pop cultural appeal. Made with lime juice, triple sec, cranberry juice, and vodka, the Cosmo is tart, sweet, and chic.

With ice, shake 0.5 ounces triple sec, 0.5 ounces lime juice, 1 ounce cranberry juice, and 1.5 ounces vodka. Strain into a cold martini glass; garnish with a lime wheel or twist. Still powerful, it’s pink and really beautiful.

9. Whiskey Sour

This sweet-and-sour classic has existed for almost the whole 19th century. Made with whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup—and maybe egg white—it’s balanced, smooth, and easy to enjoy.

With ice, shake 2 ounces of whiskey, 0.75 ounces of lemon juice, and 0.5 ounces of simple syrup (with egg white if using), then pour into a rocks glass. Top with an orange or cherry slice. Perfect for both novices and enthusiasts, the whiskey sour is accessible and endlessly fulfilling.

10. Moscow Mule

Present in its classic copper mug, the Moscow Mule is a fizzy, fiery drink composed of vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer. Making it is simple; even more so is enjoying it.

Ice a copper cup, then top with ginger beer after adding 2 ounces vodka and 0.5 ounces lime juice. Stir very lightly; garnish with a lime wedge. Moscow Mule is cool any time of year, crisp and zesty, with a ginger edge.

11. French 75

Combining gin, lemon juice, sugar, and Champagne, the effervescent, zesty French 75 is perfect for brunches or special events; it’s light and festive.

With ice, shake one ounce gin, 0.5 ounce lemon juice, and 0.5 ounce simple syrup; pour into a flute; top with Champagne. Perfectly balancing tart and bubbly, the French 75 is as festive as it is sophisticated.

12. Bloody Mary

A Bloody Mary completes a brunch. Designed with vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, spicy sauce, and spices, this tasty drink doubles as a hangover remedy.

In a tall glass, build the cocktail over ice, swirl thoroughly, then top with celery, pickles, olives, or even bacon. Anyone who likes strong, fiery tastes should definitely know about the infinitely versatile and absolutely unique Bloody Mary.

FAQs

Q1: What’s the easiest classic cocktail to start with?

The Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour are great beginner-friendly cocktails due to their simple ingredients and straightforward mixing methods.

Q2: Do I need special tools to make these drinks?

Basic bar tools like a shaker, jigger, strainer, and muddler are helpful, but many cocktails can be made with kitchen substitutes in a pinch.

Q3: Can I swap ingredients for dietary needs?

Absolutely! Use low-sugar syrups, alcohol-free spirits, or fresh juices to suit your preferences or health goals.

Q4: What’s a good non-alcoholic version of a classic cocktail?

Mocktails like a Nojito (Mojito without rum) or Virgin Mary (alcohol-free Bloody Mary) offer great flavor without the booze.

Conclusion

For good reason, classic drinks are ageless. Classic drinks combine basic, premium ingredients into enduring taste combinations that have endured over time. Learning to create these 12 drinks can help you to wow visitors, improve your house bar, and appreciate mixology from your own kitchen. Whether you’re drinking an Old Fashioned or shaking a Daiquiri, you are part of a great global tradition.