Cheers to the Classics: Six Timeless Cocktails You Need to Try

Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or a cocktail enthusiast looking to expand your repertoire, this article is for you. We’re delving into the world of classic cocktails, showcasing six iconic drinks that have captured the hearts and taste buds of generations. From the sophisticated martini to the zesty margarita, these classic cocktails are perfect for any occasion. We’ll also provide you with the recipes and tips you need to craft them from the comfort of your own kitchen. So, grab your shaker and let’s get started!

Old Fashioned: a Timeless Classic Cocktail

The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. This elegant whisky-based drink is a perfect blend of sweetness, bitterness, and rich flavours. It’s a great choice for sipping on a  chilly  evening while catching up with friends or enjoying a book.

Gather these ingredients to make this classic cocktail:

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whisky
• 1 sugar cube or ½ tsp sugar
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
• Orange or lemon twist
• Ice cubes

First, place the sugar cube or sugar in an old fashioned glass. Add the Angostura bitters and muddle until the sugar is dissolved. Add whisky and stir. Finally, fill the glass with ice cubes and garnish with an orange or lemon twist. 

Ingredients available at Red & White Store:

• Jim Beam White Bourbon Whiskey
• Bulleit Rye Whiskey
• Angostura bitters

Margarita: the Classic Cocktail with a Citrus Twist

A Margarita is a refreshing classic cocktail that is perfect for warm weather and socialising. Made with tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, it’s a zesty blend of sweet and sour flavours.

To fashion this classic cocktail, you’ll need:

• 2 oz tequila
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz Triple Sec or Cointreau
• Salt for rimming the glass (optional)
• Ice cubes

Start your margarita by rimming the glass with salt if desired. Combine the tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain the liquid into the prepared glass over fresh ice. 

Ingredients available at Red & White:

• Jose Cuervo Tradicional Reposado Tequila
• 1800 Silver Tequila

Negroni: the Bittersweet Classic Cocktail

Negroni is a bold classic cocktail that combines the bitter flavours of Campari with the sweetness of vermouth and the strength of gin. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate a balanced yet potent drink. 

For a classic Negroni, gather:

• 1 oz gin
• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• Orange twist for garnish
• Ice cubes

To make this classic cocktail, simply pour the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth into a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir well, then strain into a rocks glass over ice. Garnish with an orange twist. 

Ingredients available at Red & White:

• Tanqueray gin
• Campari
• Cinzano 1757 Vermouth di Torino Rosso

Daiquiri: the Classic Cocktail with a Tropical Vibe

This classic cocktail transports you to a sunny, tropical paradise. Many versions of the Daiquiri exists today, but the classic one is made with rum, lime juice, and simple syrup, it’s a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavours.

Whip up your own Daiquiri with:

• 2 oz light rum
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• ¾ oz simple syrup
• Ice cubes

Ingredients available at Red & White:

• Bacardi Carta Blanca

Create this classic cocktail by combining rum, lime juice, and simple syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Martini: the Sophisticated Classic Cocktail

The Martini exudes elegance and sophistication. This classic cocktail is made with gin or vodka, coupled with dry vermouth. Its crisp and clean taste makes it perfect for any occasion. 

Make this classic cocktail using:

• 2 oz gin or vodka
• ½ oz dry vermouth
• Green olive or lemon twist for garnish
• Ice cubes

Pour your liquor of choice and dry vermouth into a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir well, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a green olive or lemon twist. 

Ingredients available at Red & White:

• Gordon’s London Dry Gin
• Absolut Vodka
• Cinzano 1757 Vermouth di Torino Extra Dry

Moscow Mule: the Classic Cocktail with a Kick

Packing a flavourful punch, this classic cocktail contains vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. It’s the perfect refreshing drink for those who love a little spice in their life.

Ingredients for the Moscow Mule are:

• 2 oz vodka
• 4 oz ginger beer
• ½ fresh lime juice
• Lime wedge and mint sprig for garnish
• Ice cubes

Fill a copper mug or a rocks glass with ice. Then, pour in the vodka and lime juice, and top it off with ginger beer. Give it a gentle stir and garnish with a lime wedge and mint sprig.

Ingredients available at Red & White:

• Belvedere Vodka
• Fever Tree Ginger Beer