51 Best Cocktails for Any Occassion & Taste in 2024
To create the best cocktails, one must have a dash of knowledge, a dose of skill and a shaker full of creativity. While the topic seems complex, learning some basics is a great way to get started on your path to mixing better drinks for your friends and family.
What are some trendy cocktails? What is the most delicious cocktail? How can I stock my bar and create a fun bartending atmosphere for all my gatherings? Let’s take an in-depth look at cocktail making to understand the answers to these questions better and set sail toward mastering mixology.
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- Mixology Fundamentals To Create the Best Cocktails
- Best Gin Cocktails
- Best Vodka Cocktails
- Best Whiskey Cocktails
- Best Tequila Cocktails
- Best Bourbon Cocktails
- Best Rum Cocktails
- Best Mezcal Cocktails
- Best Thanksgiving Cocktails
- Best Halloween Cocktails
- Best Christmas Cocktails
Mixology Fundamentals To Create the Best Cocktails
3 Mixology Basic Techniques
Creating the best cocktails involves understanding mixology. Various techniques elevate the quality and flavor of cocktails, and mastering a few basic ones is essential for crafting great drinks.
- Shaking is one of the most common drink-making techniques. It's used for cocktails that contain multiple ingredients, especially those with mixers like citrus juice, egg whites or cream. Shaking chills and aerates the drink while thoroughly mixing the ingredients. Bartenders create some of the best cocktails using a shaker filled with ice to achieve a smooth texture and perfectly blended flavor. This creates the ideal base for drinks like the daiquiri or margarita.
- Stirring is used primarily for spirit-forward cocktails that do not require vigorous mixing. Drinks like the martini or Manhattan benefit from this method, as stirring preserves the drink's clarity while chilling it without over-diluting.
- Muddling is another fundamental technique used to extract flavors from fresh ingredients like herbs or fruit. By pressing these ingredients gently with a muddler, you release essential oils and juices that infuse the best cocktails with natural flavors, as seen in drinks like the Mojito or Old Fashioned.
Online mixology classes are a great place to learn about these techniques and refine your skills. A skilled bartender provides engaging instruction right in your home, helping you to stir, shake or muddle some of the best cocktails and impress your family or friends. Mixology classes in the Bay Area, Los Angeles mixology classes and Miami mixology classes are also options if you prefer to learn in an in-person setting.
5 P's of bartending
There are five Ps of bartending: preparation, presentation, precision, personality, and professionalism. These are essential to mixing the best cocktails and becoming a better bartender for your family and friends. Mixology classes in Washington DC and Jacksonville mixology classes offer tips to help you refine all five skills.
- Preparation is when you have all the necessary tools, ingredients and garnishes ready before your guests arrive so you can mix their cocktails efficiently.
- Presentation involves crafting visually appealing cocktails, as the look and taste of a drink combined equal some of the best cocktails.
- Precision is crucial for consistently making balanced cocktails, requiring accurate measuring of ingredients to achieve the perfect flavor.
- Personality creates a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere, as a warm and charming bartender is someone you want to spend time with while sipping the best cocktails.
- Professionalism ensures bartenders handle their responsibilities with integrity and respect, maintaining a high level of service even during busy or challenging shifts. Together, these five Ps lay the foundation for excellent cocktail-making.
10 Rules for Making Cocktails
What are the ten most popular cocktail rules for making the best cocktails? How can you create a bartending system that ensures your drinks are consistently flavorful, balanced, and memorable? Follow these tips.
- Rely on Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh fruit juices, herbs and garnishes. Your selections can elevate a cocktail's taste and aroma, making it more vibrant and well-balanced, which is key to creating some of the best cocktails.
- Measure Your Ingredients: Precision is critical in cocktail making. Using jiggers or measuring tools to ensure the right balance of ingredients is the ideal way to prevent the drink from being too strong or weak, too sweet or too diluted.
- Chill Your Glassware: Serve your cocktail in a chilled glass to maintain its temperature for longer. A cold glass ensures the drink stays refreshing while your guest enjoys it.
- Balance Flavors: Aim for a balance between your cocktails' sweet, sour and bitter elements. This harmony is what makes the best cocktails stand out. Every ingredient complements one another, and no one element overpowers the drink.
- Shake or Stir Properly: Shaking is for cocktails with citrus or mixers, while stirring is reserved for spirit-forward drinks. Both techniques chill the drink but produce different textures and degrees of dilution. Know which to use, and use the method correctly.
- Use Premium Spirits: High-quality spirits help to make great cocktails. Opt for premium brands, especially in simple drinks where the spirit is the star. What are the best classic cocktails that make this list? Drinks like an Old Fashioned or a Martini.
- Stick to Minimal Garnishes: Keep garnishes simple and relevant to the drink. A subtle garnish complements the flavor of some of the best cocktails, while overdone garnishing can overpower the presentation and taste.
- Control Dilution Levels: Proper dilution enhances the best cocktail’s flavor and smoothness. Controlling the ice melt, whether shaking or stirring, ensures your drink is neither watered down nor too strong.
- Use the Right Ice: The type of ice you use can significantly impact the cocktail. According to Physics, larger ice cubes melt more slowly due to their surface area, preventing over-dilution in spirit-heavy drinks. In contrast, crushed ice is excellent for ultra-chilling tropical cocktails.
- Taste Test Your Cocktails: Tasting your cocktail before serving ensures you master the balance and flavor. Adjust levels of ice, mix-ins and liquor if necessary to guarantee you are delivering one of the best cocktails possible.
6 Spirits Used in Bartending
The spirits used in bartending are the building blocks for some of the best cocktails. Each brings its distinct flavor and character to the drink. These include gin, vodka, whiskey, tequila, rum and brandy.
- Gin has herbal and botanical notes. It is a key ingredient in classic cocktails, such as the Martini or Negroni, taught in mixology classes in Las Vegas.
- Vodka is known for its clean, neutral taste. Professionals consider it one of the most versatile spirits. Instructors in a mixology class in Chicago might use vodka to build several of your favorite drinks.
- Whiskey, including bourbon, rye, and Scotch, delivers rich, bold flavors to some of the best cocktails. Creating whiskey drinks like the Penicillin cocktail is a popular topic in mixology classes in New Jersey.
- Tequila has a distinctive agave profile. It is the heart of cocktails like the ever-popular margarita.
- Rum is distilled from sugarcane and comes in light and dark varieties. Tropical drinks are often based on rum.
- Brandy is often made from fermented fruit. Choosing this as your base adds depth and warmth to classics covered in San Diego mixology classes like the sidecar.
Best Gin Cocktails
1. Aviation Cocktail
What are five cocktails you must try if you like gin? The Aviation Cocktail makes the list. This classic stands out for its light, floral notes and smooth gin base. It combines gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette and fresh lemon juice, giving it a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. It’s one of the best cocktail recipes to make at home. Try it if you want a unique, sweet cocktail that feels sophisticated but not complicated.
2. Bee’s Knees Cocktail
The Bee’s Knees mixes gin with honey syrup and lemon juice, a simple yet flavorful cocktail. This cocktail is loved for its refreshing and light taste, with the honey providing natural sweetness. As one of the best cocktail recipes, it is an easy idea and perfect for summer afternoons by the pool or any time you want a naturally sweet cocktail with a refreshing flavor.
3. Last Word Cocktail
The Last Word is a favorite gin cocktail with bold, balanced flavors. It features equal parts gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur and lime juice, creating a herbal, sweet and citrusy drink. Known as one of the best cocktails to make at home, it is ideal if you are in the mood for something complex yet approachable.
4. Negroni
A timeless and simple drink, the Negroni is one of the best easy cocktail ideas for those who enjoy a bitter yet balanced flavor. It combines gin, Campari and sweet vermouth in equal parts. The rich, bittersweet taste makes this a favorite cocktail recipe in some of the most renowned restaurants, and it is one of the best cocktail ideas to master at home.
5. Tom Collins
The Tom Collins is a refreshing gin cocktail, perfect for those who love light, sweet cocktails. It blends gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water for a sparkling, citrusy drink. It’s one of the best cocktails to make at home, as it’s easy to prepare and highly customizable.
Best Vodka Cocktails
6. Cosmopolitan Cocktail
The Cosmopolitan cocktail is one of the best choices for those who enjoy a sweet yet tangy drink. Made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice and lime juice, it is known for its signature pink color and balanced flavor profile. Popularized in the late 1990s, this drink has become a go-to choice at any event, from virtual happy hours to chic parties. It is a perfect option for anyone looking for the best cocktails to make at home for a virtual happy hour, virtual date idea or a 21st birthday gift idea.
7. Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is beloved for its refreshing, zingy taste. This cocktail combines vodka with ginger beer and a squeeze of tangy lime, served in a signature copper mug that keeps it icy cold. Copper mugs make great gifts for cocktail lovers. As one of the best cocktails for a casual gathering with family and friends, it is simple yet elegant in appearance and a flavorful choice. Many bartenders recommend it as one of the best cocktails to make at home as the drink is light and easy to make.
8. Bloody Mary
A Bloody Mary is a savory vodka cocktail. Alongside mimosas, it is a famous brunch staple. It features vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce and garnishes such as celery or olives. This cocktail stands out for its unique blend of spiced flavors. It is often considered one of the best cocktails for daytime events and an exceptional choice for those who prefer bold flavors.
9. Vodka Martini
Classic vodka martinis are sleek, easy cocktail ideas. This sophisticated drink is often seen as the epitome of classic cocktails. Made with just vodka and dry vermouth and typically garnished with an olive or a lemon twist, it is ideal for those who love intense, clean flavors. This is one of the best cocktails to serve at any formal event, making it an excellent choice for a wedding or classic business function.
10. Black Russian
The Black Russian is a simple yet indulgent cocktail made with vodka and coffee liqueur. Its rich, deep flavor profile makes it one of the best cocktails for those who enjoy bold and slightly sweet drinks. Drink it on a cozy night beside the fireplace when you want something tasty and sweet yet easy to make. Blend vodka, Kahlúa and cream (or milk) for the equally delicious White Russian — the drink of choice for "The Dude."
11. Screwdriver
Vodka screwdrivers are classic vodka cocktails. This drink is straightforward to prepare and ideal for the novice bartender. Combining vodka with freshly squeezed orange juice, it is one of the best cocktails for brunch or casual events. The light and sweet taste makes it a popular choice for those just starting to explore cocktails, and it is an easy option to whip up during any social gatherings.
Best Whiskey Cocktails
12. Paper Plane Cocktail
The paper plane is a modern favorite known for its perfect balance of bitter and sweet. Made with bourbon whiskey, Aperol, Amaro Nonino and lemon juice, it is refreshing and slightly tart. Due to its simplicity and bold flavors, it has quickly become one of the best cocktails in contemporary mixology.
13. Boulevardier Cocktail
The boulevardier is a whiskey lover’s take on the classic Negroni. It combines bourbon or rye whiskey, sweet vermouth and Campari for a bittersweet, spirit-forward drink. This cocktail’s depth and complexity make it one of the best cocktails for enthusiasts who enjoy bold, rich flavors with a bitter edge.
14. Old Fashioned
The old fashioned is one of the best classic whiskey cocktails. It is made with bourbon or rye whiskey, a sugar cube, Angostura bitters and an orange peel garnish. Loved for its simplicity, the drink is one of the best cocktails to serve if you want the whiskey to shine while delivering a perfectly balanced and slightly sweet flavor.
15. Whiskey Sour
The whiskey sour is a crowd-pleaser because it combines whiskey, lemon juice and simple syrup, often finished with a frothy egg white. This is one of the best cocktails for those who enjoy a sweet and tart drink with a smooth, creamy texture.
16. Manhattan Cocktail
The Manhattan cocktail is a timeless favorite. It is known for its sophisticated blend of rye or bourbon whiskey, sweet vermouth and bitters. Often garnished with a cherry, this cocktail is for those who appreciate the balance of smooth whiskey and the herbal sweetness of vermouth.
Best Tequila Cocktails
17. Paloma
The Paloma is another classic tequila cocktail loved for its refreshing and tangy profile. Made with tequila, grapefruit soda and lime juice, it is one of the best cocktails for poolside parties and warm weather. The grapefruit adds a slight bitterness to the citrusy burst of flavor.
18. Margarita
The Margarita is easily one of the best cocktails for tequila lovers, and the most well-known. It combines tequila, lime juice and triple sec and is often served with a salted rim, shaken or frozen. Its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and salty flavors has made it an enduring best cocktail frequently found in some of the most popular Mexican restaurants.
19. Tequila Sunrise
Known for its beautiful layered hues that mimic the colors of the sun at dawn, the Tequila Sunrise is made with tequila, orange juice and grenadine. The sweet and fruity flavors make this one of the best cocktails for brunch or a casual afternoon drink, with the orange juice providing a smooth, refreshing base.
20. Tommy’s Margarita
A modern twist on the classic margarita, Tommy’s Margarita uses tequila, lime juice and agave syrup, omitting the triple sec. This cocktail is popular for its natural sweetness from the agave and is one of the best cocktails for those who prefer a more straightforward, direct tequila experience.
21. Tequila Sour
The Tequila Sour is a smooth and frothy cocktail that blends tequila with lemon juice, simple syrup and egg white. The combination of tart lemon, tequila’s robust flavor and the silky texture from the egg white makes this one of the best cocktails for those who crave a sophisticated yet approachable drink.
Best Bourbon Cocktails
22. Mint Julep
A symbol of Southern charm, the Mint Julep is best known for its association with the Kentucky Derby. Made with bourbon, fresh mint, sugar and crushed ice, this cocktail offers a sweet, minty freshness that complements the bourbon’s warm, oaky notes. It is one of the best cocktails for a hot day at the racetrack, delivering flavor and a cooling effect.
23. Brown Derby
The Brown Derby is a citrusy bourbon cocktail that combines bourbon, fresh grapefruit juice and honey syrup. The tart grapefruit and sweet honey create a refreshing yet complex drink, making it one of the best cocktail choices for bourbon lovers looking for a light, fruity option.
24. Kentucky Mule
A bourbon twist on the classic Moscow mule, the Kentucky Mule combines bourbon with ginger beer and lime juice, served over ice in a copper mug. The spicy ginger pairs perfectly with the smooth, caramel notes of the bourbon, making it one of the best cocktails for those seeking a lively and zesty drink.
25. Bourbon Smash
The Bourbon Smash is a versatile cocktail that blends bourbon with fresh lemon, mint and simple syrup. It is a fruity, slightly tart option with a refreshing minty edge and one of the best cocktails for those who want something flavorful and easy to sip, especially in warmer weather.
26. Gold Rush
The Gold Rush is a simple yet elegant cocktail with smokey bourbon, sweet honey syrup and tart lemon juice. The honey adds a smooth, natural sweetness, while the lemon brings a refreshing tang, creating a balanced and sophisticated drink. Bourbon lovers who enjoy that balance between sweetness and acidity view this as one of the best cocktails for casual events.
Best Rum Cocktails
27. Painkiller
The painkiller is a rich, creamy rum cocktail made with dark rum, tart pineapple juice, sweet orange juice and rich coconut cream. It is often garnished with grated nutmeg. Known for its tropical flavor and creamy texture, it transports you to an island paradise with every sip. The refreshing and indulgent flavor makes it a favorite among rum drinkers.
28. Daiquiri
The daiquiri is a classic cocktail that combines white rum, lime juice and simple syrup. Its simplicity allows the rum to shine, offering a perfect balance of sweet and sour. As one of the best cocktails for those who enjoy crisp, citrusy flavors, the daiquiri is a timeless option and an easy-to-make, delicious drink.
29. Mojito
The Mojito is a refreshing cocktail that blends white rum, fresh mint, lime juice, sugar and soda water. Its fresh, minty flavor, combined with the sharpness of lime, makes it one of the best cocktails for hot summer days at the beach. The Mojito’s light and effervescent character makes it a crowd favorite and an easy-to-make option for novice bartenders at home.
30. Piña Colada
The Piña Colada is a tropical favorite with a song named after it (actually, Rupert Holmes called it "Escape", but people refer to it as "The Piña Colada Song"). This drink is made with rum, coconut cream and pineapple juice, blended to create a smooth, creamy texture. Known for its sweet and fruity flavor, this is one of the best cocktails for those who enjoy dessert-like drinks and getting caught in the rain. It is a vacation in a glass, perfect for sipping on the boat or at the lake.
31. Mai Tai
The Mai Tai is a fruity and complex rum cocktail made with light and dark rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup and orange curaçao. This cocktail offers a rich blend of tropical flavors and is often seen as one of the best cocktails for rum enthusiasts due to its layers of sweetness and depth. The bold profile makes it an exciting drink for any occasion.
Best Mezcal Cocktails
32. Mezcal Margarita
What are the ten most popular cocktail options for mezcal lovers? The Mezcal Margarita is undoubtedly one of them, offering a smoky twist on the classic margarita. It is made with mezcal, lime juice and orange liqueur. Its rich, earthy flavor adds complexity to the traditional balance of sweet and sour. This is one of the best cocktails for anyone who loves a margarita but wants a deeper, more intriguing profile.
33. Oaxacan Old Fashioned
The Oaxacan Old Fashioned blends mezcal with reposado tequila, agave nectar and bitters, creating a smoky yet smooth version of the classic drink. This cocktail highlights mezcal’s unique flavors while keeping the drink balanced and approachable. Whiskey lovers who want to expand their taste buds and try mezcal view this as one of the best cocktails to add to their menu.
34. Mezcal Paloma
The Mezcal Paloma replaces tequila with mezcal, pairing it with grapefruit soda and lime juice for a refreshing and slightly smoky take on the traditional drink. This version is light, citrusy and ideal for slow sipping on a warm day. Consider it one of the best cocktails to serve if your guests want to explore a smoky twist on a classic favorite.
35. Naked and Famous
The Naked and Famous is a vibrant cocktail made with mezcal, Aperol, yellow Chartreuse and lime juice. It is known for its balance of smoky, bitter and sweet flavors and complex tasting experience. If you are looking for the best cocktails that provide layers of flavors, add this one to your list.
36. Mezcal Negroni
The Mezcal Negroni is a smoky variation that replaces gin with mezcal, blending it with Campari and sweet vermouth. The mezcal adds a rich, earthy twist to the traditional Negroni profile.
Best Thanksgiving Cocktails
37. Spiced Apple Cider Margarita
This fall-inspired twist on the classic Margarita combines tequila, apple cider, fresh lime juice and an autumn-spiced cinnamon-sugar rim. Its sweet, spiced flavor makes it one of the best cocktails for gathering at Thanksgiving time, offering a festive take on a favorite drink with a warm, seasonal feel.
38. Cranberry Moscow Mule
The Cranberry Moscow Mule is a refreshing blend of vodka, ginger beer, tart cranberry juice and a splash of lime to add that extra bite. It is one of the best cocktails for adding a festive twist to a classic. The cranberry tartness pairs perfectly with the spicy ginger beer, making this cocktail a great option for Thanksgiving with friends and family.
39. Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Everyone loves pumpkin spice, and adding it to a White Russian is a great way to present a classic drink with a seasonal twist. This drink blends vodka, coffee liqueur and pumpkin spice creamer. It is indulgent and one of the best cocktails for Thanksgiving dessert, offering warm, cozy flavors that feel perfect for the fall season.
40. Hot Buttered Rum
A quintessential holiday drink, Hot Buttered Rum is made with dark rum, creamy butter, rich brown sugar and a mix of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This comforting Thanksgiving cocktail offers a sweet and rich flavor, ideal for the colder months.
41. Adrenal Cocktail
Consider the Adrenal Cocktail if you are looking for a non-alcoholic drink to serve at Thanksgiving. It is a healthy, nutrient-packed drink often made with orange juice, coconut water and a sea salt pinch. While traditionally known for its health benefits, it is also a refreshing, energizing option during the hectic holiday season. Add this to your menu to stay hydrated and balanced while enjoying your holiday gatherings with friends.
Best Halloween Cocktails
42. Black Magic Margarita
This dark and moody take on the classic Margarita uses black food coloring to give it a spooky twist. Made with tequila, lime juice, triple sec and a splash of simple syrup, the Black Magic Margarita is one of the best cocktails for creating a beautiful yet eerie presentation at Halloween thanks to its striking appearance and tangy, citrusy flavor.
43. Vampire’s Kiss Martini
The Vampire’s Kiss Martini is a dramatic cocktail made with vodka, raspberry liqueur and a splash of champagne. Its bright, blood-red color and sweet-tart raspberry flavor make it one of the best cocktails to serve as an approachable option to please a large crowd for your Halloween party themes, offering a lovely balance of elegance and frightful fun.
44. Witch’s Brew Punch
Witch’s Brew Punch is a crowd-pleasing, large-batch Halloween drink made with vodka, pineapple juice, lime juice and blue curaçao. In a bowl or punch dispenser, it gives off a neon green hue. Its tropical flavor and spooky color make it one of the best cocktails for a large gathering, perfect for serving in a big cauldron for added effect.
45. Poison Apple Cocktail
The poison apple cocktail is a delicious blend of apple cider, pomegranate juice, vodka and a hint of spiced cinnamon. Its deep red color and rich, sweet-tart flavor evoke the fall season, making it one of the best cocktails for storybooked Halloween party ideas or gatherings and is reminiscent of Snow White’s encounter with the Evil Queen.
46. Blood Orange Negroni
This Halloween-inspired version of the classic Negroni swaps regular orange for blood orange juice, adding a rich, ruby hue and a hint of bitterness. The blood orange Negroni’s bold flavor and eerie appearance make it one of the best cocktails for a sophisticated option with a creepy twist.
Best Christmas Cocktails
47. Christmas Sangria
Christmas Sangria is a festive, fruity option that combines red wine, brandy and seasonal fruits like oranges, apples and pomegranates. Garnish your sangria punch with a splash of sparkling water. The result is a refreshing and colorful drink that is one of the best cocktails for larger holiday gatherings because it is easy to make in larger batches.
48. Eggnog
Eggnog is one of the classic Christmas cocktails, or should we say alcoholic beverages that you can turn into a cocktail. It combines egg yolks, cream, sugar and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon with a splash of rum or bourbon. Its rich, creamy texture and warm, spicy flavors make it one of the best cocktails for Christmas, bringing a traditional and indulgent touch to any holiday celebration. For a non-alcoholic version, simply leave out the rum or bourbon.
49. Peppermint Martini
The Peppermint Martini combines vanilla vodka, white crème de menthe and a splash of cream, garnished with crushed minty candy canes. Its sweet and minty flavor makes it one of the best cocktails for Christmas-themed parties. Serve this fun and festive twist on the classic martini to offer your guests a holiday flair.
50. Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is a warm, spiced red wine cocktail made with cinnamon, cloves, orange peel and a touch of brandy. Served hot, it creates a cozy, festive atmosphere during Christmas, perfect for sipping by the fire.
51. Gingerbread Old Fashioned
This holiday version of the classic Old Fashioned incorporates gingerbread syrup for a sweet and spicy twist. Made with bourbon, bitters and a dash of gingerbread flavor, it offers a sophisticated and seasonal take on a beloved classic.
Whether you enjoy classic cocktails or modern creations, discovering mixology is a fun way to entertain friends, please your family and level up all of your gatherings.
There are options for every occasion and taste, and selecting the best cocktails for your crowd involves understanding the basics of mixology and a few popular liquor profiles. Explore your options, try your hand at drink-making before your event and have fun behind the bar.
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