Here are some vintage cocktail recipes to transport you back in time. These classic drinks, once enjoyed by the likes of flappers and gangsters, are making a comeback in modern bars. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a novice home bartender, these vintage cocktails are sure to impress your guests.
BEE’S KNEES
A honey-forward gin cocktail with a citrus twist. Thin the honey with hot water for smooth sweetness. It’s a delightful and celebratory sip.
GIN FIZZ
A floral and citrusy drink, the Gin Fizz shines with egg whites and gin. Nail the egg consistency for a creamy texture that’s sure to impress.
SIDECAR
A classic cocktail made with Cognac, Cointreau, and citrus juice. Served with a lemon twist, it’s simple and always a hit.
GIMLET
A mix of gin (or vodka) and homemade syrup with lime. A lime garnish enhances the citrus flavor, making it light yet sophisticated.
FRENCH 75
Champagne meets gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in this bubbly cocktail. A twist of lemon peel is the perfect garnish for a refreshing drink.
MARTINEZ
A vintage gin cocktail with vermouth, Maraschino liqueur, and bitters. A touch of orange peel balances the smooth and complex flavors.
VESPER MARTINI
A strong combination of gin and vodka, with a splash of Lillet Blanc. Garnish with lemon peel for a sleek, celebratory martini.
CORPSE REVIVER NO. 2
A dry, citrusy cocktail with Lillet Blanc, Cointreau, and a touch of gin. Balanced and bold, this drink has a kick, perfect for any occasion.
MINT JULEP
A southern classic made with bourbon, mint, sugar, and water. Perfect for parties or Kentucky Derby celebrations, it’s easy to make in batches.
BRANDY ALEXANDER
A creamy, decadent cocktail made with Cognac, creme de cacao, and cream. A dash of nutmeg on top completes this rich, old-world drink.
TOM COLLINS
A simple but refreshing cocktail with gin, club soda, and lemon juice. Serve it individually to keep the soda from going flat.
OLD FASHIONED
A bourbon or whiskey base with bitters, sugar, and brandied cherries. Muddling the ingredients creates a balanced, timeless cocktail.
MANHATTAN
A sweet, bourbon-based cocktail with sweet vermouth and cherry. Served in a martini glass with a cherry garnish, it’s perfect for elegant gatherings.
NEGRONI
A gin, vermouth, and bitters drink, with an herbaceous and slightly tart flavor. You can adapt it by adding club soda or swapping gin for whiskey.
SAZERAC
A rye whiskey cocktail with sugar and absinthe (or any anise liqueur). Garnish with a citrus twist for a beautifully balanced drink.
BOULEVARDIER
A bourbon-based twist on the Negroni, with Campari and sweet vermouth. It’s rich and robust, garnished with a citrus twist for extra depth.
WHISKEY SOUR
A whiskey cocktail with bourbon or rye, egg white, lemon juice, simple syrup, and bitters. The egg white creates a foamy, velvety texture.
LAST WORD
A vibrant green cocktail with gin, maraschino cherry liqueur, and green Chartreuse. Balanced yet potent, it’s a unique drink to try.
