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Once drunk as a high-class fancy tipple, cocktails and mocktails have taken the modern drinking scene by storm, becoming one of the most popular drinks across the globe. But whilst its modern popularity has soared, the cocktail isn’t a new drink. Cocktails became available as early as the 1850s, and have since become a staple in any bar. With some fans choosing to make cocktails at home, there even companies such as the Asterley Bros Cocktail Club that can deliver pre-mixed cocktail classics to home across the country. Enjoying deliciously crafted cocktails has got easier!
Over the years, cocktails have been created with various rates of success, and the mixology of liquors and flavours makes drink combinations seem endless! With so many blends to choose from, it can be overwhelming when switching sides of the bar to make cocktails yourself. But fear not! We’ve put together a list of 6 top cocktails and mocktails to get you off to a running start.
What do I need to start making cocktails?
The first step to making cocktails and mocktails is to have the necessary tools at hand.
Cocktail making is an art, and just like a painter needs a good brush and canvas, an aspiring mixologist needs a good bartending kit. The key components to a cocktail making kit include:
- A jigger
- Shaker
- Strainer
- Bar spoon
- Muddler
- Citrus Juicer
- Channel Knife
- Glasses
There are a variety of affordable equipment options available with an assortment of designs and colours. Once you’ve got a basic mixology kit, you will also want to think about the presentation. Any good cocktail maker will tell you that presentation is vital, as well as a great taste. Get yourself some fancy cocktail glasses and put on a show as you serve drinks. You can even use a drinks trolley for an extra wow factor whilst serving drinks!
How to make the perfect mocktails
Renowned for being boozy, there are now modern alternatives for the designated driver or those who want to enjoy the flavours without the feeling of regret the next day. The Mocktail is just that; a mock of a cocktail. All the flavour, minus the alcohol!
1. Virgin Cucumber Gimlet
Ingredients:
1.5 oz club soda
4-5 slices of muddled cucumber
1 oz fresh lime juice
1 oz simple syrup
This tasty little number is light and refreshing, perfect for a summer evening.
Image Source: Ocean Prime
2. Let Me Get Some Rhubarb
Ingredients:
1.5 oz lime juice
1 oz basil syrup
3 dashes rhubarb bitters
Seltzer
Rhubarb
Sceptical? These flavours combine beautifully creating a taste sensation you won’t soon forget.
Image Source: Highway Restaurant & Bar
3. Virgin Watermelon Margarita
Ingredients:
1 medium seedless watermelon, cut into chunks
0.5 cup fresh lime juice
4 tsp agave
5 tbsp sparkling water
One of the most refreshing drinks you’ll ever drink. And so easy to make too!
Image Source: FoodDoneLight
Want a shorter drink with a kick? For those looking to elevate their mixology skills, explore the enticing malibu red shot recipe and discover a delightful way to craft this vibrant and flavourful concoction using Malibu Red.
How to make cocktails
Unlike the mocktail, the cocktail is the alcoholic counterpart. Often enjoyed over dinner or as a party accompaniment on its own, cocktails come in all shapes, sizes and most importantly, flavours.
4. Classic Daiquiri
Ingredients:
1 oz. lime juice
2 tsp. superfine sugar
2 oz. white rum
Sliced lime, for serving
A staple in most bars across the world, this classic is all about the perfect balance. Get that right, and you’ll be in cocktail heaven.
Image Source: Mike Garten
5. Classic Mai Tai
Ingredients:
1 oz. amber rum
1 oz. fresh orange juice
1/2 oz. Cointreau
1/2 oz. fresh lime juice
1/2 oz. orgeat syrup (optional)
1 oz. dark rum
Small pineapple wedge, for serving
This famous tiki-inspired cocktail is fun to say but even better to drink. Topped off with a slice of pineapple, it’s the perfect tropical drink.
Image Source: Mike Garten
6. Dark and Stormy
Ingredients:
3 oz. ginger beer
1/2 oz. fresh lime juice
2 oz. dark rum (we used Goslings)
Candied ginger, for serving
Dark rum creates dark tones when it comes to this popular cocktail. Simple and elegant with a big hit in every sip!
Image source: Mike Garten
Master the art of making cocktails like a professional
Now we’re thirsty, it’s time to get out there and start cocktail making. Not a fan of going out? Why not enjoy a cocktail masterclass at home. The key thing to remember is to get creative by experimenting with different flavours, measurements. You never know, you could create the next classic!
We hope you love this list of top beginners cocktails and mocktails just as much as we do. And remember, please drink responsibly.
Author Bio:
Tom Hughes is a Content and CRO Specialist for Digital Marketing Agency Tillison Consulting. With a background in illustration and animation, he has a keen eye for interior design. Writing for a broad spectrum of online clients sees Tom experienced in lifestyle, technology, business and digital marketing related topics. When Tom is not crafting content, he is actively driving conversion on client sites with his CRO expertise. Find Tom on Twitter @Tillison_Tom