Classic Cocktail Basics

It is worth noting there is a reason particular drinks make the classic cocktails list. Classics are mixed frequently by professional bartenders around the world due to the notoriety of the cocktail and superb flavor. Some cocktails have a history so intertwined within the roots of the liquor industry that they cannot be ignored and will never become outdated.

Cocktails can be placed in categories of pre-dinner, after-dinner, long drink and popular. Cocktails within these categories range from the not so surprising Whiskey Sour, Manhattan and Old Fashioned to trendier drinks such as the Margarita, Cosmopolitan and Sex on the Beach. All of these drinks have taken their place in popular culture at one time. They rise and fall in popularity, yet have the staying power as foundation drinks of bartending.

Try a new favorite by sampling the rich history of classic cocktails.

Paradise Cocktail – pre-dinner cocktail

2 measures Gin

3/4 measure Apricot Brandy

3/4 measure Fresh Orange Juice

2 dashes Orange Bitters

Orange Twist Garnish

Place liquids in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to blend and chill. Strain into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with orange twist.

French Connection – after dinner cocktail

1 measure Cognac

1 measure Premium Orange Liqueur

Place warm water in brandy snifter. Swirl to warm glass. Discard warm water. Add liquids to heated glass. Serve.

Bull Shot – long drink

1-1/2 measure Vodka

Dash of Orange Juice

4 dashes Tabasco Sauce

Dash of Pepper

4 measures Cold Beef Broth

Orange Twist Garnish

Place all ingredients except garnish in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to blend. Strain into highball glass over fresh ice. Garnish with orange twist.

Japanese Slipper – popular cocktail

1 measure Melon Liqueur

1 measure Premium Orange Liqueur

1 measure Fresh Lemon Juice

Honeydew Melon Slice Garnish

Place liquids in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to blend and chill. Strain into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with honeydew melon slice.

Cheri Loughlin is a leading cocktail and photography resource for beverage companies, event planners, businesses and individuals. High resolution cocktail and beverage stock photography images are available in downloadable digital format in the newly redesigned Stock Photography Gallery at www.cheriloughlin.com.

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