Level up - History

Level up your cocktail historical knowledge

Explore the captivating history of cocktails with our 'Level Up Your Knowledge of the History of Cocktails' series.

Delve into the origins and evolution of iconic drinks, from the classic Old Fashioned to the sleek Martini. Each article brings to life the stories and milestones that shaped mixology, offering a glimpse into the cultural impacts and legends behind your favorite cocktails. Perfect for enthusiasts and history buffs, this series enriches your understanding of cocktail craft, one fascinating tale at a time.

The History of the Rusty Nail

This potent blend of scotch whisky and Drambuie was a favourite of the Rat Pack back in the 1960s,giving them the dutch courage they needed for their outrageous exploits whilstensuring they kept their...  read more

History

The History of the White Lady

The White Lady has undergone a few transformations over the years, but she has never lost her sense of elegance and style. The most modern version includes Cointreau, lemon juice, gin, sugar syrup and...  read more

History

The History of the Zombie Cocktail

With Halloween fast approaching, this classic cocktail seems like an obvious choice for any spooky shenanigans you may be planning! A somewhat complicated blend of various different ingredients, inclu...  read more

History

The History of the Salty Dog

A classic cocktail that has become somewhat underappreciated in recent times, the Salty Dog is the perfect cocktail to enjoy while making the most of every last bit of summer sunshine. Incredibly easy...  read more

History

History of the Mai Tai Cocktail

If the hot summer weather has got you feeling in the mood for something tiki-tiki, the tropical Mai Tai cocktail might be just what you need. Similar to a daiquiri, thanks to its base of white rum and...  read more

History

History of the Espresso Martini

Before we had even heard of Vodka Redbull, there was another alcoholic cocktail credited with keeping partygoers awake until the early hours. The Espresso Martini combines kahlua, vodka and hot espres...  read more

History

The History of The Godfather Cocktail

A cocktail without a mixer is like fish without chips; salt without vinegar; Bert without Ernie – it just doesn’t work. Unless you are the Godfather, in which case, the rules no longer apply. A wicked...  read more

History

The History of Happy Hour

Everybody loves a happy hour, right? Cut-price drinks and cheap bar snacks are the perfectcomplement to the end of the working day, helping busy nine-to-five employeesunwind and relax after a stressfu...  read more

History

The Old-Fashioned History of the Old Fashioned

A sophisticated blend of bourbon, bitters, soda and sugar, the Old Fashioned cocktail has roots that go all the way back to the 1800s! The name comes from the way it is made, with people heading to co...  read more

History

The History of the Mary Pickford Cocktail

A very fancy cocktail with an extremely glamourous namesake, the Mary Pickford cocktail was created during prohibition and is saved for only the classiest of establishments. Who was Mary Pickford? B...  read more

History

The History of the Caipirinha

Made with cachaça, the sweeter, more refined cousin of dark rum, the Caipirinha (Kai-Pur-reen-Ya) has earned its place as the national cocktail of Brazil. Light, cold and incredibly refreshing, it is...  read more

History

The History of the Long Island Ice Tea

Not every bartender is comfortable with serving up this classic cocktail. A potent blend of spirits topped with cola, it is not afforded the same respect as many of the other classics. Perhaps this is...  read more

History

Bartender's top tip

Make a show of it! Part of the fun of cocktails is the preparation. So prepare cocktails in front of guests and friends to share and enjoy the whole experience.

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