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    Home » Drink Collections

    Dec 20, 2024 by Kristin. This post may contain affiliate links. · As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    18+ Classic Cocktails That Have Stood the Test of Time

    Classic cocktails are timeless drinks that never go out of style. From the smooth Old Fashioned to the refreshing Mojito, these drinks offer a simple yet sophisticated way to enjoy your favorite spirits.

    Frozen banana daquiri on a wooden table with ingredients in the background.

    Classic cocktails are known for their balanced flavors and clean presentations. Whether you prefer whiskey, gin, rum, or vodka, these cocktails have a drink for every spirit lover, with easy-to-follow recipes and unforgettable taste.

    We selected these classic cocktails based on their enduring popularity and simple elegance. Each recipe showcases a classic drink that’s easy to prepare and always satisfying. Scroll down to find your next go-to cocktail!

    Classic margarita on a wooden table.

    Classic Margarita

    The Classic Margarita blends tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur for a timeless, zesty cocktail. Its balance of tart and sweet flavors makes it a favorite.

    why its good: The Classic Margarita blends tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur for a timeless, zesty cocktail. Its balance of tart and sweet flavors makes it a favorite.

    Long island iced tea on a wooden table.

    Long Island Iced Tea

    The Long Island Iced Tea is a bold mix of vodka, rum, tequila, gin, and triple sec, topped with cola and lemon. It’s strong yet balanced with citrusy sweetness.

    why its good: This iconic cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and a kick.

    Tequila rickey on a wooden table.

    Tequila Rickey

    The Tequila Rickey is a light, refreshing drink made with tequila, lime juice, and soda water. It’s bubbly and slightly tart.

    why its good: It’s low in sugar and calories, making it a great choice for a crisp, refreshing sip.

    Placing a lime wedge on the glass of a whiskey on the rocks.

    Whiskey on the Rocks

    Whiskey on the Rocks highlights the pure flavor of whiskey, served over ice to slightly mellow its intensity.

    why its good: This drink is simple, elegant, and perfect for savoring quality whiskey.

    Whiskey sour being held in a hand.

    Whiskey Sour

    The Whiskey Sour is a classic blend of whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup, creating a tangy and slightly sweet cocktail.

    why its good: It’s easy to make and strikes a perfect balance of flavors.

    Whiskey highball on a wooden table.

    Whiskey Highball

    The Whiskey Highball pairs whiskey with soda water, creating a fizzy, light drink that’s both refreshing and smooth.

    why its good: This versatile cocktail is easy to make and perfect for casual sipping.

    Bourbon sidecar on a wooden table.

    Bourbon Sidecar

    The Bourbon Sidecar is a twist on the classic Sidecar, combining bourbon, orange liqueur, and lemon juice for a tart, citrusy drink.

    why its good: This variation adds a rich, warm flavor to the original recipe, making it a must-try.

    Bourbon Rickey on a wooden table.

    Bourbon Rickey

    The Bourbon Rickey mixes bourbon, lime juice, and soda water for a tangy and effervescent cocktail.

    why its good: This drink is simple, refreshing, and a great way to enjoy bourbon in warmer weather.

    Vodka screwdriver in a highball on a wooden table.

    Vodka Screwdriver

    The Vodka Screwdriver is a two-ingredient classic, blending vodka and orange juice for a bright, citrusy drink.

    why its good: It’s quick to prepare and can easily be adjusted to taste.

    Sea breeze cocktail on a wooden table.

    Sea Breeze Cocktail

    The Sea Breeze is a refreshing mix of vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice with a tart and slightly sweet flavor.

    why its good: This cocktail is light and fruity, perfect for a classic summer vibe.

    Vodka soda on a wooden table.

    Vodka Soda

    The Vodka Soda is a crisp and clean drink made with vodka and soda water, served with a wedge of lime for a hint of citrus.

    why its good: It’s low in calories and easy to customize with flavored vodkas or additional garnishes.

    Madras cocktail on a wooden table.

    Madras

    The Madras Cocktail combines vodka, cranberry juice, and orange juice for a vibrant, fruity mix with a balance of tart and sweet flavors.

    why its good: This drink is simple to prepare and great for adding a burst of color to your cocktail lineup.

    Vodka cranberry in a glass in front of ingredient bottles.

    Vodka Cranberry

    Vodka Cranberry is a straightforward mix of vodka and cranberry juice, offering a tart, refreshing drink with minimal effort.

    why its good: It’s easy to make and pairs well with a variety of garnishes or mixers for customization.

    Cosmopolitan on a wooden table.

    Cosmo

    The Cosmopolitan combines vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice for a sleek, tangy, and slightly sweet cocktail.

    why its good: This iconic drink is easy to prepare and perfect for a sophisticated vibe.

    Frozen banana daquiri on a wooden table with ingredients behind glass.

    Frozen Banana Daquiri

    The Frozen Banana Daiquiri blends rum, fresh bananas, lime juice, and simple syrup into a creamy, tropical treat.

    why its good: It’s a fun twist on the classic daiquiri, ideal for hot summer days or tropical-themed parties.

    Hurricane cocktail on a wooden table.

    Hurricane Cocktail

    The Hurricane is a fruity mix of light and dark rums, passion fruit juice, orange juice, lime juice, and grenadine. Its tropical flavors are bold and vibrant.

    why its good: This classic cocktail is perfect for parties and brings a festive vibe to any gathering.

    Gin rickey in a highball on a wooden table.

    Gin Rickey

    The Gin Rickey features gin, lime juice, and soda water, creating a tart, bubbly drink with a crisp finish.

    why its good: It’s light, refreshing, and easy to make with just a few ingredients.

    Gin tonic on a wooden table.

    Gin + Tonic

    The Gin and Tonic combines gin and tonic water for a bubbly, slightly bitter cocktail often garnished with lime.

    why its good: This drink is a timeless classic that’s easy to customize with different gins and garnishes.

    French 75 cocktail on a wooden table.

    French 75

    The French 75 blends gin, champagne, lemon juice, and simple syrup for a sparkling and citrusy drink with a touch of elegance.

    why its good: This cocktail is great for celebrations and pairs beautifully with a variety of foods.

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