Ready to try something different at the bar? Want to impress the next time you host a dinner party? Here are some of our current favorites to help you branch out and modernize your cocktail game.
Top 5 Contemporary Cocktails
The Gold Rush
Simple and sweet, what more could you ask for? The Gold Rush is a modern twist on a whiskey sour, using a honey syrup instead of the traditional sugar. Here’s how it’s done:
1) make a honey syrup by combining 2 parts of honey with 1 part water in a saucepan. Heat and stir constantly until the honey dissolves. Let it cool.
2) Add two ounces of bourbon, 3/4 ounce of lemon juice, and 3/4 ounce of honey syrup into a shaker with ice.
3) Shake, strain, and serve!
Espresso Martini
All the rage these days, the Espresso Martini has emerged as a favorite of the roaring 20s (2020s, that is). Tasty and strong, this is a great way to end a meal or start a night out.
1) Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, 2 ounces of vodka, 1 ounce coffee liqueur, 1 ounce espresso, 1 ounce simple syrup.
2) Shake for 30+ seconds, to make sure the combination is frothy.
3) Strain into a martini glass and serve!
Tommy’s Margarita
A margarita-lover’s favorite margarita, this sweeter version is a refreshing cocktail and modern classic. Plus, only three ingredients. Check it out:
1) Fill a shaker with ice, 2 ounces of blanco tequila, 1 ounce lime juice, 1/2 ounce agave nectar.
2) Shake until the shaker gets a bit frosty.
3) Strain into your salt-rimmed glass.
Oaxaca Old-Fashioned
If you want something that will make you feel like you’re at an underground speakeasy in the East Village, the Oaxaca Old Fashioned is the drink for you. Old school bones with a new school flare makes for a great drink.
1) In a mixing glass, stir together 1.5 ounces of reposado tequila, 1/2 ounce of mezcal, one teaspoon of agave syrup, and 1 dash bitters with ice.
2) Pour over a big ice cube.
3) Add a flamed orange peel for a smoky garnish.
Revolver
Another great modern drink that’s an easy ask of any bartender (they’ll thank you for it) is the Revolver. The idea here is the template of a Manhattan with a contemporary twist. Here’s what to do:
1) In a mixing glass, combine 2 ounces bourbon, 1/2 ounce coffee liqueur and 2 dashes of orange bitters.
2) Stir on ice until chilled, then strain into your glass.
3) Garnish with a flamed orange twist.
Have a different drink in mind when you think of contemporary cocktails? Let us know in the comments!