Whether it is for a celebration or simply to chill out and relax, it is best to have a classic cocktail experience once in a while. Cocktail drinks basically consist of spirits of any kind, fruit juices or soda, sugar, water and bitters and most of the time are served iced or chilled. Here are some of these classic cocktails that have been served for more than a century already. You might want to try these at least once in your life.

Dry Martini
Martini is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you mention cocktail drinks. Even though a lot of neat drinks that come in different colors and flavors are usually called “martinis”, the true Martini however, is just made up of gin and dry vermouth and is usually garnished with either an olive or lemon twist. Nowadays there are already many variations to this simple drink like Dirty Martini and Vodka Martini. Also, you can now make preferences as to how ‘dry’ you want your glass of Martini to be.

Manhattan
Another classic cocktail drink that should be on your try-out list is Manhattan which instead of using gin as with a Martini incorporates whiskey or bourbon into the mixture. Also, sweet vermouth is used instead of Martini’s dry vermouth while cherry is usually used as the drink’s garnish.

Sazerac
Although Sazerac may not be for everyone because it includes absinthe which gives it an anise flavor, it can still be considered as one of those cocktails that you should try at least once in your life. A well-made Sazerac can be the best cocktail that you can ever have and for this reason it has been made the official cocktail of the city of New Orleans in 2008.

Margarita
One of the classic cocktail drinks that perhaps most of you have already tried is the Margarita. Today, it now comes in every color and flavor just like the Martini. But the traditional Margarita is simply made of tequila, orange liqueur, lime, lemon juices and includes a simple syrup. Try to experience the ultimate Margarita from these simple recipes instead of using those bottles of ‘margarita mix’.

Old-Fashioned
The Old-Fashioned is another great way to experience different whiskies. It is a simple drink but nonetheless essential to you cocktail collection because it teaches you one important technique of bartending which is muddling. Enjoying this drink is more about the process than the ingredients. Old-Fashioned is created by muddling sugar, bitter and a slice of orange. Afterwards, you add ice and bourbon, while you continue stirring the mix.

A party wouldn’t be complete without cocktail drinks. Make sure to try and serve one of these cocktail drinks when you have a gathering with your family and friends. Get to taste these exquisite mixes at their finest. Cheers!