25 Must-Know Cocktail Recipes for 2025: Your Ultimate Guide

Ready to shake things up? This guide showcases 25 must-know cocktail recipes that are simple, fun, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking to impress a friend, these recipes will help you mix, muddle, and sip your way to cocktail bliss!

The Classic Martini

The Classic Martini is a timeless cocktail that embodies elegance and simplicity. With its crisp and refreshing taste, this drink is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a fancy celebration. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few key ingredients and minimal effort.

Typically made with gin or vodka and dry vermouth, the martini can be garnished with olives or a twist of lemon for added flavor. It’s a drink that appeals to many, making it a staple in bars and home gatherings alike. Here’s how to whip up your own classic martini:

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 oz gin or vodka
• 1/2 oz dry vermouth
• Ice
• Olive or lemon twist for garnish

Instructions

1. Chill a martini glass by filling it with ice water and letting it sit.
2. In a mixing glass, combine the gin or vodka and dry vermouth. Fill the glass with ice and stir gently for about 30 seconds.
3. Dump the ice water from the chilled martini glass.
4. Strain the mixture into the glass.
5. Garnish with an olive or a lemon twist.

The Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that perfectly balances the rich flavors of bourbon with a hint of sweetness and a touch of aromatic bitters. This drink is known for its simple yet sophisticated profile, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. It’s easy to make at home, allowing you to impress your guests with minimal effort.

This timeless drink is not just for the seasoned mixologist; anyone can whip up an Old Fashioned with its basic ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve party or just enjoying a cozy night in, this cocktail is sure to be a hit. Let’s get into the details of making this elegant drink.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces bourbon
• 1 sugar cube
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 orange peel
• 1 maraschino cherry (optional)
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. In a rocks glass, muddle the sugar cube and bitters together until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Add a few ice cubes to the glass and pour in the bourbon.
3. Stir gently to combine the flavors.
4. Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink, then add it as a garnish along with the maraschino cherry if desired.
5. Enjoy your Old Fashioned as a perfect sip for any occasion!

The Margarita

The Margarita is a classic cocktail that perfectly blends tart lime juice, smooth tequila, and a hint of sweetness. It’s refreshing and zesty, making it a go-to drink for parties and gatherings. Plus, it’s simple to whip up at home, so you can impress your friends without breaking a sweat.

This drink is versatile, allowing for various twists, whether you prefer it frozen or on the rocks. Ideal for summer barbecues or festive celebrations, the Margarita truly stands out as a beloved choice among cocktail enthusiasts. Let’s dive into the ingredients and how to make this delightful beverage.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces tequila
• 1 ounce lime juice
• 1 ounce orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or triple sec)
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• Salt for rimming the glass
• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glass: Start by rimming your glass with lime juice and dipping it in salt to create a salted rim.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur, and simple syrup if using. Fill the shaker with ice.
3. Shake: Shake well until the mixture is chilled, about 15 seconds.
4. Strain: Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish: Add a lime wedge for garnish and enjoy your refreshing Margarita!

The Negroni

The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail known for its striking balance of flavors. This drink combines equal parts gin, vermouth, and Campari, resulting in a bittersweet profile that’s both refreshing and sophisticated. It’s a perfect choice for those who appreciate a cocktail with depth and complexity, making it a popular pick for evening gatherings.

Simple to make yet elegantly presented, the Negroni is ideal for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to more formal celebrations. It’s a great drink for parties, and its vibrant color makes it an eye-catching addition to your cocktail repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 oz gin
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 1 oz Campari
• Orange twist (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice and add gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari.
2. Stir until well chilled.
3. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with an orange twist.

The Manhattan

The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that perfectly blends the rich flavors of whiskey with the sweetness of vermouth. This drink is known for its smooth, bold taste, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. It’s a simple yet elegant choice, ideal for parties, weddings, or just a cozy night at home.

With just a few ingredients, you can easily whip up this drink at home. You’ll appreciate how the bitters enhance the drink’s flavors, resulting in a sophisticated cocktail that’s always a hit. Whether you’re looking for good drinks to make at home or planning a celebration, the Manhattan has got you covered.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Ice cubes
• Maraschino cherry, for garnish
• Orange peel, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the bourbon or rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters.
2. Stir gently for about 30 seconds until well chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and a twist of orange peel.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your classic Manhattan!

The Daiquiri

The Daiquiri is a classic cocktail that’s a true crowd-pleaser. With its refreshing blend of rum, lime juice, and sugar, it offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. This drink is not only delicious but also quite easy to whip up, making it a go-to option for gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.

This cocktail is versatile, too! You can play around with different fruit flavors, making it a great choice for various occasions, from summer parties to weddings. Whether you prefer it frozen or shaken, the Daiquiri is a staple that never goes out of style.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces white rum
• 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• 3/4 ounce simple syrup (or to taste)
• Ice (for shaking or blending)
• Lime wheel for garnish

Instructions

1. In a shaker, combine the white rum, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with a lime wheel and enjoy!

The Moscow Mule

The Moscow Mule is a refreshing cocktail that combines vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice, served in a signature copper mug. This drink offers a delightful balance of spiciness from the ginger beer and tang from the lime, making it perfect for warm weather or any festive gathering. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so it’s a great choice for both experienced mixologists and those just starting to learn how to make cocktails.

Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, the Moscow Mule is a crowd-pleaser. It’s one of those good drinks to make at home that never disappoints. With basic cocktail ingredients, you can create a classic that feels special every time.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 4 oz ginger beer
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• Lime wedge and mint sprig for garnish
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a copper mug with ice cubes.
2. Add the vodka and lime juice to the mug.
3. Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of mint.
5. Enjoy your refreshing Moscow Mule!

The Mojito

The Mojito is a refreshing cocktail that perfectly balances mint, lime, and sweetness. It’s a fantastic drink for parties and casual gatherings, offering a delightful combination of flavors that will make anyone feel like they’re on a tropical getaway. Simple to make, this classic cocktail is a great choice whether you’re an expert mixologist or just starting out.

With its zesty lime and invigorating mint, the Mojito is both crisp and revitalizing. This drink is not only a crowd-pleaser but also easy to customize with various ingredients, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Gather your friends, and get ready to mix up this vibrant cocktail!

Ingredients

• 2 oz white rum
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves
• Club soda
• Ice cubes
• Lime slices and mint sprig for garnish

Instructions

1. Muddle the Mint: In a sturdy glass, add the mint leaves and sugar. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press the mint leaves, releasing their oils.
2. Add Lime Juice: Pour in the fresh lime juice and stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add Rum: Add the white rum to the glass, mixing it well with the mint and lime mixture.
4. Add Ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes, and top off with club soda. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish: Add lime slices and a sprig of mint for garnish. Serve with a straw and enjoy!

The Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini is a delightful cocktail that combines the rich flavors of coffee with a smooth, spirited kick. This drink offers a wonderful balance of sweetness and bitterness, making it a perfect choice for coffee lovers looking for a sophisticated evening sip. It’s surprisingly simple to whip up, requiring just a few ingredients and a quick shake to bring everything together.

Whether you’re hosting a classy dinner or just winding down after a long day, this cocktail is sure to impress. It’s a fantastic option for party drink ideas, especially for weddings or New Year’s Eve. Let’s take a look at how to make this invigorating concoction at home!

Ingredients

• 2 ounces vodka
• 1 ounce freshly brewed espresso
• 1 ounce coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Ice
• Coffee beans for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Espresso: Brew a shot of espresso and let it cool slightly.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, simple syrup, and cooled espresso.
3. Add Ice: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
4. Strain: Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish: Float a few coffee beans on top for garnish before serving.

The Whiskey Sour

The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that perfectly balances the rich flavors of whiskey with the tartness of fresh citrus. This drink offers a delightful mix of sweet and sour, making it a favorite for many. It’s simple to whip up at home, whether you’re preparing for a cozy night in or a lively gathering with friends.

With just a few ingredients, including whiskey, lemon juice, and a touch of sugar, the Whiskey Sour is easy to customize. You can even add a splash of egg white for a frothy texture if you’re feeling adventurous! Whether you’re looking for a good drink to make at home or searching for cocktail recipes for a wedding, this one is always a hit.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Ice
• Garnish: orange slice and maraschino cherry

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into an ice-filled glass.
4. Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.
5. Enjoy your delicious Whiskey Sour!

The Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan, often affectionately known as the “Cosmo,” is a classic cocktail that’s as stylish as it is delicious. With its vibrant pink hue and zesty flavor, it’s a drink that brings a touch of sophistication to any gathering. This cocktail balances the tartness of cranberry juice with the citrus notes of lime, making it a refreshing choice for those warm evenings or festive occasions.

Simple to make, the Cosmopolitan requires just a few key ingredients and can be whipped up in minutes, making it one of the good drinks to make at home. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in with friends, it caters to a variety of tastes while being a staple in cocktail culture.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 ounces vodka (preferably Citron)
• 1 ounce triple sec
• 1 ounce cranberry juice
• 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
• Lime wheel or twist for garnish

Instructions

1. Chill your cocktail glass by filling it with ice water.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 15 seconds.
4. Empty the ice water from your chilled glass and strain the mixture into the glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel or twist. Serve immediately and enjoy!

The Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is a delightful cocktail that perfectly embodies the spirit of summer gatherings. This vibrant drink blends the refreshing bitterness of Aperol with bubbly prosecco, making it an ideal choice for sunny afternoons or casual get-togethers. Its bright orange hue and crisp taste add a splash of color to any occasion, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.

This cocktail is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a few basic ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply relaxing at home, the Aperol Spritz is a go-to drink for anyone looking to impress guests without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, its light and fruity flavor profile makes it a standout option for weddings or festive events.

Ingredients

• 3 ounces prosecco
• 2 ounces Aperol
• 1 ounce soda water
• Ice cubes
• Orange slice for garnish
• Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Fill a wine glass with ice cubes to chill.
2. Pour in the prosecco, followed by Aperol, and top it off with soda water.
3. Gently stir to combine the ingredients.
4. Garnish with a slice of orange and a sprig of fresh rosemary if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Aperol Spritz!

The Mai Tai

The Mai Tai is a tropical cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of summer in a glass. With its harmonious blend of rum, lime, and fruit flavors, it offers a refreshing escape with every sip. This drink is not only delicious but also straightforward to make, making it a great choice for parties or casual gatherings.

Perfect for warm weather, the Mai Tai features a delightful mix of sweetness and tartness, with hints of almond from orgeat syrup. It’s the kind of cocktail that makes you feel like you’re lounging on a beach, even if you’re just in your backyard. Whether it’s a wedding, a New Year’s Eve party, or just a relaxing evening, this drink is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 oz light rum
• 1/2 oz dark rum
• 1/2 oz orange liqueur
• 1/2 oz orgeat syrup
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Mint leaves for garnish
• Pineapple slice for garnish

Instructions

1. In a shaker, combine the light rum, orange liqueur, orgeat syrup, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with crushed ice.
4. Slowly pour the dark rum over the top.
5. Garnish with mint leaves and a slice of pineapple before serving.

The Dark ‘N’ Stormy

The Dark ‘N’ Stormy is a refreshing cocktail that perfectly balances the rich, spiced notes of dark rum with the zing of ginger beer and a splash of lime. This drink is not only delightful but also incredibly easy to make, making it a great choice for any gathering. It’s a crowd-pleaser, ideal for warm evenings or festive occasions.

With its bold flavors and straightforward preparation, the Dark ‘N’ Stormy is a fantastic addition to your cocktail repertoire. Serve it at your next party or enjoy it at home while relaxing. Just a few simple ingredients and you’re set for a delicious drink!

Ingredients

• 2 oz dark rum
• 4 oz ginger beer
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• Lime wedge for garnish
• Ice

Instructions

1. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour the ginger beer over the ice.
3. Slowly add the dark rum, allowing it to float on top.
4. Add fresh lime juice, and stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.

The Bloody Mary

The Bloody Mary is a classic cocktail that brings a delightful mix of flavors to your glass. Known for its unique combination of savory and spicy notes, this drink is often enjoyed as a brunch staple or a refreshing pick-me-up. With its vibrant red color and garnished with a variety of tasty additions, it’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

This cocktail is simple to make and can be tailored to your taste. Whether you like it spicy, tangy, or packed with garnishes, the Bloody Mary is a versatile drink that invites creativity. It’s a fun drink to serve at parties, weddings, or just a casual night in. Plus, learning how to make cocktails like this one is an excellent skill for any home bartender!

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 4 oz tomato juice
• 1/2 oz lemon juice
• 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
• 2 dashes hot sauce (like Tabasco)
• Pinch of salt and pepper
• Celery salt (for rimming the glass)
• Garnishes: celery stalk, olives, lemon wedge

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glass: Rim a tall glass with lemon juice and dip it into celery salt to coat the rim.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a shaker, combine vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Fill the shaker with ice and shake gently to mix.
3. Assemble the Drink: Fill the rimmed glass with ice and pour the mixture over it.
4. Add Garnishes: Top with a celery stalk, olives, and a lemon wedge for decoration.

The French 75

The French 75 is a classic cocktail that perfectly combines the refreshing flavor of gin with the effervescence of champagne and a touch of lemon. Its crisp and citrusy profile makes it a delightful choice for celebrations or a casual evening at home. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up, making it an ideal drink for both novice and seasoned mixologists.

This cocktail is not only tasty but also versatile. Whether you’re preparing drinks for a party or a cozy date night, the French 75 fits right in. With just a few ingredients, you’ll impress your guests with this bubbly concoction that feels festive and special. Now, let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 ounces gin
• 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons simple syrup
• Champagne or sparkling wine
• Lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add ice and shake well until chilled.
3. Strain into a champagne flute.
4. Top with champagne or sparkling wine.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist and serve immediately.

The Gimlet

The Gimlet is a timeless cocktail that perfectly balances tartness and sweetness. With its refreshing taste, it’s an excellent choice for any gathering or a cozy night in. Simple to prepare, this drink usually features just two main ingredients: gin and lime juice, making it an easy go-to for both novice and experienced home bartenders.

The Sidecar

The Sidecar is a classic cocktail that beautifully balances sweet and tart flavors. With its base of cognac, orange liqueur, and fresh lemon juice, it offers a refreshing yet sophisticated taste that’s perfect for any occasion. This drink is not only delightful but also incredibly easy to make, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced mixologists.

Whether you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve party or simply looking to unwind at home, the Sidecar is a crowd-pleaser. Its vibrant citrus notes combined with the rich depth of cognac create a drink that’s both lively and comforting. So gather your cocktail ingredients and let’s get mixing!

Ingredients

• 2 ounces cognac
• 1 ounce orange liqueur (such as Cointreau)
• 3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
• Ice
• Orange peel or lemon twist for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the cognac, orange liqueur, and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Shake well until the mixture is chilled, about 15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a twist of orange peel or lemon for an extra touch of flair.

The Tom Collins

The Tom Collins is a refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion. With its mix of gin, fresh lemon juice, and soda water, it strikes a balance between tangy and sweet, making it a delightful drink to sip on a warm day or at a festive gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a simple drink to enjoy at home, this classic cocktail is easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser.

Perfectly fizzy and invigorating, the Tom Collins is a fantastic choice for those who enjoy light and fruity flavors. It pairs well with various appetizers and can even be served as a wedding drink idea. Plus, with just a few ingredients, you can make this drink quickly, so you can get back to enjoying the party!

Ingredients

• 2 ounces gin
• 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
• 1 ounce simple syrup
• Club soda
• Lemon slices and maraschino cherries for garnish

Instructions

1. In a shaker filled with ice, combine the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Shake well to mix the ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda to fill the glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon slice and a maraschino cherry.
6. Enjoy your refreshing Tom Collins!

The Piña Colada

The Piña Colada is a classic tropical cocktail that’s perfect for any sunny occasion. With its delightful mix of pineapple and coconut flavors, this drink offers a sweet, refreshing escape from the ordinary. It’s easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients, making it a popular choice for gatherings, parties, or simply relaxing at home.

This cocktail is a crowd-pleaser, often seen as a go-to drink for weddings and parties. Its creamy texture and fruity essence create a vibe that’s both festive and laid-back, making it one of the most beloved mixed drinks. If you’re looking for a fruity drink recipe that’s simple yet impressive, the Piña Colada is the way to go!

Ingredients

• 2 ounces white rum
• 1 ounce coconut cream
• 1 ounce heavy cream
• 6 ounces fresh pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup crushed ice
• Pineapple slice and cherry for garnish

Instructions

1. Blend all the ingredients, except for the garnish, in a blender until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a chilled glass.
3. Garnish with a pineapple slice and a cherry.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical vibes!

The Paloma

The Paloma is a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that perfectly combines the tanginess of grapefruit with the crispness of tequila. This drink is loved for its citrusy flavor and slight bitterness, making it a great choice for warm afternoons or festive gatherings.

Simple to make, the Paloma requires just a few ingredients and can be easily adjusted to suit your taste. It’s an ideal option for parties or casual get-togethers, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of appetizers. Whether you’re looking for a delicious drink for a wedding or just want to impress friends with your cocktail skills, the Paloma is a fantastic choice.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces tequila
• 2 ounces fresh grapefruit juice
• 1/2 ounce lime juice
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Club soda
• Salt for rimming the glass
• Grapefruit slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glass: Rim a glass with salt by moisten the rim with lime juice and dipping it into a plate of salt.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a shaker, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
3. Pour and Top: Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice. Top it off with club soda.
4. Garnish: Add a slice of grapefruit on the rim for garnish and enjoy!

The Aviation

The Aviation cocktail is a delightful blend of floral and fruity flavors, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a refreshing drink. With its striking purple hue, this cocktail not only pleases the palate but also captivates the eyes. It’s relatively simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients, and is perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

This classic cocktail combines gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and fresh lemon juice, resulting in a balanced drink with a hint of sweetness and a zesty finish. Whether you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve party or looking for a good drink to make at home, the Aviation is sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin
• 1/2 oz maraschino liqueur
• 1/2 oz crème de violette
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• Ice
• Cherry and lemon twist for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and fresh lemon juice.
2. Add ice and shake well until chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
4. Garnish with a cherry and a twist of lemon.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

The Sazerac

The Sazerac is a classic cocktail that hails from New Orleans, known for its bold flavors and unique preparation. This drink combines the spiciness of rye whiskey with the sweetness of sugar and the aromatic complexity of bitters, creating a balanced and refreshing sip. It’s a drink that offers a rich taste profile, making it perfect for any gathering or a quiet night at home.

While the Sazerac may seem sophisticated, it’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a few key ingredients, you can impress your friends with this timeless cocktail. Perfect for parties or as a signature drink at weddings, it’s sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 2 oz rye whiskey
• 1 sugar cube
• 2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• Absinthe (or absinthe substitute)
• Lemon peel (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Chill your glass: Rinse a chilled old-fashioned glass with absinthe, swirling it around to coat the inside. Discard any excess.
2. Mix the drink: In a separate mixing glass, muddle the sugar cube with the Peychaud’s and Angostura bitters until dissolved. Add the rye whiskey and ice. Stir until well chilled.
3. Strain: Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
4. Garnish: Express the lemon peel over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in as garnish.

The Last Word

The Last Word is a classic cocktail that balances sweet, tart, and herbal flavors in a refreshing way. This drink features equal parts of gin, lime juice, green Chartreuse, and maraschino liqueur, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, perfect for both seasoned cocktail enthusiasts and those just starting out.

With its vibrant green hue and zesty taste, The Last Word is a great addition to your cocktail repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, this drink is sure to impress. Plus, it works well as a wedding drink idea or for New Year’s Eve parties with adults.

Ingredients

• 3/4 oz gin
• 3/4 oz lime juice
• 3/4 oz green Chartreuse
• 3/4 oz maraschino liqueur
• Ice
• Lime wheel or twist for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, lime juice, green Chartreuse, and maraschino liqueur.
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
4. Garnish with a lime wheel or twist for a pop of color.
5. Enjoy your refreshing Last Word cocktail!

The Paper Plane

The Paper Plane is a modern classic cocktail that perfectly balances the citrusy notes of lemon with the herbal complexity of Amaro. It’s smooth, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make, making it a favorite for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

This drink brings together equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice, resulting in a delightful mix that’s both sweet and bitter. Whether you’re looking for a drink for a party or just want a good cocktail to enjoy at home, the Paper Plane fits the bill perfectly.

Ingredients

• 3/4 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz Aperol
• 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• Ice
• Orange twist for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice.
2. Add ice and shake well until chilled.
3. Strain into a coupe or cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with an orange twist.