Meet the Masters: Historical Mixologists and Their Craft

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4th August 2024
History
12 min read
# 2388 words

Discover historical mixologists and their craft that shaped cocktail culture through the ages. Cheers!

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The Evolution of Cocktails

Ah, cocktails—the delightful concoctions that have jazzed up many a dull evening! From the pages of history, these boozy blends reflect audacity and innovation, thanks to savvy bartenders experimenting and pushing boundaries across the ages. Today's fancy drinks owe a lot to the bold pioneers from yesteryears, especially spotlighting early visionaries and that mad-cap Prohibition era.

Early Mixologist Pioneers

Back in the day, before the fancy equipment and Instagram-worthy drink shots, there were the OG mixologists. Leading the pack was Jerry Thomas, often called the granddaddy of American mixology. This guy was ahead of his time, publishing "The Bartender's Guide" in 1862—a mixology bible that first set many classic cocktail recipes into stone. Ever enjoyed a whiskey sour at happy hour? Thank Thomas for perfecting that craft Sipsmith.

But it wasn't just Jerry. Other unsung heroes in the cocktail scene, with their secret twists and craftsmanship, turned drink-making into the art form we appreciate today.

Prohibition and Cocktail Innovation

Flash forward to the 1920s—an era of flappers, jazz, and well, the not-so-small inconvenience known as Prohibition. Imagine the equivalent of plugging your nose to get medicine down. That was cocktails in the Prohibition days. Bartenders had to hustle big time to make moonshine go down easy. Enter honey, gin, lemon juice, sugar, and some slick handling of ingredients—et voila, the Bee’s Knees, the Gin Rickey, and other creative libations that hoodwinked the taste buds Casual Mixologist.

This prohibition stint forced a cocktail renaissance of sorts in hidden joints called speakeasies, where clever barkeeps snuck amazing drinks past the authorities. The buzz of these joints and the fruit of their labors still influence today’s martini menus. Wanna get nosy about these sneaky times? Guzzle up our article on prohibition era cocktails.

From these wild phases, cocktails have flowed through time, morphing and modernizing. Celebrate their past, sip by frothy sip, with a nod to their history. Ready to soak up more? Check out our treasury on history of cocktails and the evolution of mixology. Cheers!

Classic Cocktail Origins

Shrink Expand recipe card

Highball glass

Base ingredient
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Gin
Calories
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110 calories
Garnish
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Lime
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8% | 2.4 units *

<p>Gin Rickey is a classic cocktail that originated in the United States in the late 19th century. It is a simple and refreshing drink that consists of lime juice, gin, and tonic water.</p><p>The lime adds a tangy and citrusy flavor, while the gin provides a strong botanical taste. The tonic water adds a bubbly, slightly bitter note to balance out the sweetness of the lime.</p><p>The drink is typically served over ice and is a popular choice for hot summer days. It became popular during the Prohibition era as a way to mask the harsh taste of homemade liquor.</p><p>Today, Gin Rickey remains a beloved cocktail, known for its light and crisp flavor profile.</p>

Ingredients

Method
How to make a Gin Rickey

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
In a tall glass, squeeze the juice of the lime and drop the shell into the glass
Pour the gin, then add ice
Top up with the sparkling water and stir
Garnish with a lime wedge and serve
View the full recipe

Cocktails come with their share of tales, and some of the most famous ones have birth stories that echo the culture of their time. Here, we dig into the backstories of four legendary cocktails: the Tom Collins, Negroni, Manhattan, and Old Fashioned.

Tom Collins and The Origin Story Prank

Back in 1874, New York City was buzzing with pranksters orchestrating a grand joke about a fictitious dude called Tom Collins. Friends would be sent off to find this phantom character. Bartenders, not missing a beat, whipped up a refreshing concoction and named it Tom Collins, serving it to those in on the gag (Diageo Bar Academy).

Ingredient Amount
Gin 2 oz
Lemon Juice 1 oz
Simple Syrup 1 oz
Club Soda Top
Garnish Lemon Slice & Cherry

This drink reminds us of the early mixologists’ knack for cleverly blending humor with cocktail creativity.

Negroni: An Italian Classic

The Negroni's got that Italian flair and a bittersweet twist. Imagine equal parts gin, vermouth, and Campari all mixed up in Florence, Italy, thanks to Count Camillo Negroni's request for a stronger Americano. He swapped in gin for soda as the story goes, and bam, the Negroni was born, capturing hearts globally.

Ingredient Amount
Gin 1 oz
Vermouth 1 oz
Campari 1 oz
Garnish Orange Slice

Hungry for knowledge about cocktail evolution? Our piece on the evolution of mixology has all the juicy details.

Manhattan and Mysteries of the Past

The Manhattan - wrapped in myth and historical chat. Two tales vie for authenticity: one pins it to the 1860s in New York, while another credits Jennie Churchill, who allegedly concocted it for a party at the Manhattan Club during Samuel J. Tilden's victory celebration in 1874 (The Art of Shaking).

Ingredient Amount
Rye Whiskey 2 oz
Sweet Vermouth 1 oz
Angostura Bitters 2 dashes
Garnish Cherry

Whatever story you fancy, the Manhattan's got a firm place in the annals of American cocktail history.

Old Fashioned's Everlasting Appeal

The Old Fashioned: the rock star of the cocktail world since the early 1800s. With a simple mix of bourbon or rye, sugar, water, and bitters, it’s pretty much the blueprint of cocktails with a legacy stretching back to 1806 (Diageo Bar Academy).

Ingredient Amount
Bourbon or Rye Whiskey 2 oz
Sugar Cube 1
Angostura Bitters 2 dashes
Water 1 splash
Garnish Orange peel

Old Fashioned's a nod to the artistry of past barkeeps, a tradition that's alive and kicking.

Curious about more cocktail lore? Explore it all on our cocktail origins timeline and uncover the vibrant stories that make these drinks truly timeless.

Revival of Cocktail Culture

Shrink Expand recipe card

Whisky glass

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
15 key ingredients
Cocktail Of The Day
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)
Invented
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1806
Base ingredient
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Bourbon
Calories
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104 calories
Garnish
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Orange, cocktail cherry
Alcohol content
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40% | 1.8 units *
Details
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Classic
Stirred

<p>The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail with a rich history and a bold, complex flavor profile. Originating in the mid-1800s, it is one of the oldest known recipes for mixed drinks.</p><p>The traditional recipe calls for just three ingredients: sugar, bitters, and bourbon. The sugar cube provides a touch of sweetness, while the Angostura bitters add a depth of flavor with their complex blend of spices and herbs.</p><p>The bourbon, with its smooth, smoky character, is the star of the show, providing a warm and comforting kick. When mixed together with ice and stirred well, the Old Fashioned is a perfect balance of sweet, bitter, and boozy, making it a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.</p>

Ingredients

Method
How to make a Old Fashioned

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Muddle the sugar with the Angostura bitters and a few splashes water in an old fashioned glass
Fill the glass with ice and add the bourbon
Stir gently
Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry and serve
~ The Old Fashioned can be made with bourbon or other whisky. ~
View the full recipe
Shrink Expand recipe card

Cocktail glass

Base ingredient
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Red vermouth
Calories
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130 calories
Alcohol content
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30.4% | 2.28 units *
Details
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Classic

<p>The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that exudes elegance and sophistication, offering a harmonious blend of red vermouth, Angostura bitters, rye whiskey, and bourbon. Served in a chic cocktail glass, this drink is a staple of refined social gatherings and upscale bar menus.</p><p>Originating from New York City in the late 19th century, the Manhattan cocktail boasts a rich history and a flavor profile that balances the sweetness of vermouth with the complexity of whiskey and the subtle spiciness of bitters. Its enduring popularity makes it an essential component of the cocktail aficionado's repertoire, perfect for those who appreciate a timeless drink with depth and character.</p>

Ingredients

Method
How to make a Manhattan

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Begin by stirring all the ingredients together with ice in a mixing glass to chill and dilute the mix, aiming for about 10-15 seconds of stirring
After stirring, strain the mixture into a glass that has been previously chilled in the freezer to ensure your drink stays colder longer
View the full recipe
Shrink Expand recipe card

Lowball / rocks glass

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
Cocktail Of The Day
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)
Invented
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1919
Base ingredient
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Gin
Calories
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178 calories
Garnish
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Orange
Alcohol content
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28% | 2.52 units *
Details
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Easy
Classic
Stirred

<p>The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail that has been enjoyed for over a century. The drink is made up of equal parts gin, Campari, and red vermouth, resulting in a harmonious balance of flavors.</p><p>The origins of the Negroni trace back to the early 1900s, when Count Camillo Negroni requested for his Americano cocktail to be made stronger by replacing the soda water with gin. The result was a bold and bitter-sweet concoction that became an instant hit.</p><p>The combination of the herbal notes from the gin, the bitter and citrusy flavors of Campari, and the rich sweetness of red vermouth creates a complex and sophisticated taste. The Negroni is often garnished with an orange peel, adding a zesty aroma to the drink.</p><p>Whether sipped on a warm summer evening or enjoyed as an aperitif before a meal, the Negroni is a timeless classic that continues to be a favorite amongst cocktail enthusiasts.</p>

Ingredients

Method
How to make a Negroni

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Add all the ingredients directly into a lowball glass with ice and stir
Garnish with an orange slice and serve
View the full recipe
Shrink Expand recipe card

Highball glass

Microbadges

Cocktail Of The Day
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)
Invented
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1876
Base ingredient
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Gin
Calories
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163 calories
Garnish
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Lemon, cocktail cherry
Alcohol content
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12% | 1.8 units *
Details
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Classic
Stirred

<p>The Tom Collins is a classic cocktail with a refreshing, effervescent quality that has stood the test of time. Traditionally served in a highball glass, this cocktail beautifully balances the tartness of lemon juice with the botanical notes of gin, smoothed out by the sweetness of sugar syrup.</p><p>The soda water adds a lively sparkle, making the Tom Collins a perennial favorite, especially during the warm summer months. Its garnish, typically a maraschino cherry and a lemon slice, not only adds to the visual appeal but also provides subtle complementary flavors.</p><p>The drink's enduring popularity is owed to its crisp, invigorating taste and simple yet sophisticated mix of ingredients.</p>

Ingredients

Method
How to make a Tom Collins

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Add all the ingredients except the soda into a highball glass with ice
Stir and top up with the soda
Garnish with a maraschino cherry and a lemon slice and serve
View the full recipe

The evolution of cocktail crafting is a tale as rich as any classic drink itself. From bootleggers hiding bottles during Prohibition to today's trend-setting mixologists, our cocktail past is a blend of creativity and resilience. Over time, this art has seen twists and turns, molding a unique culture that raises a glass to the history of mixed drinks.

Post-War Celebration

Ah, the 1940s and 50s—a time when folks, after enduring the chaos of war, took refuge in the delightful world of cocktails. Brimming with post-war jubilation, home bars became the heart of social hangouts. The cocktail hour was not just a time; it was a mood. Classic concoctions like Martinis and Daiquiris became the life of any party, holding strong in the memories and tastes of many (Casual Mixologist).

Cocktail Type Ingredients Popularity Era
Martini Gin, Dry Vermouth, Olive 1940s - 1950s
Daiquiri Rum, Lime Juice, Sugar 1940s - 1950s
Sidecar Cognac, Orange Liqueur, Lemon Juice 1940s - 1950s

1980s Opulence and Trendsetting

Fast forward to the 1980s—when bold was better, and neither fashion nor cocktails were ever considered over the top. Whether you were living for the three-martini lunches or toasting with a Cosmopolitan, this decade was all about luxury and flair. Cocktail bars turned into stage sets, where extravagant drinks became stars, dazzling everyone with their lavish presentations (Casual Mixologist). Welcome to a time where cocktails weren't just a mix; they were a statement.

Cocktail Ingredients Notable Event
Cosmopolitan Vodka, Triple Sec, Cranberry Juice, Lime The Icon of the 1980s
Piña Colada Rum, Coconut Cream, Pineapple Juice Miami's Signature Cocktails
Long Island Iced Tea Vodka, Gin, Tequila, Rum, Triple Sec, Cola Party Anthem of the 1980s

Modern Mixology Resurgence

Entering the 2000s, the world of cocktails was reborn. Bars turned into venues of artistry, with places like Please Don't Tell and Death & Company spearheading this rebirth. The trend? Crafting each drink with care, blending tradition with new twists, all while celebrating the flavors that make a cocktail memorable (Casual Mixologist). With a splash of creativity and a nod to the past, drinks became more than just beverages—they became experiences.

Trend Characteristics Example
Craft Cocktails Premium, artisanal ingredients Barrel-Aged Negroni
Molecular Mixology Science meets spirits Spherified Martinis
Craft Spirits Focus on local crafting Gin from local distilleries

Today, cocktail culture is an ever-changing narrative, inspired by pioneers of the past. Every sip tells a story, and as history geeks and cocktail lovers delve deeper, they often discover cocktail history books and the tales of vintage cocktails, connecting with a legacy that continues to shake—pun intended—the world.

Diversity in Mixology History

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Highball glass

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
Cocktail Of The Day
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)
Invented
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(1972)
Base ingredient
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White rum
Calories
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384 calories
Garnish
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Lemon
Alcohol content
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12% | 3.6 units *
Details
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Classic
Stirred

<p>The Long Island Ice Tea is a classic cocktail characterized by its deceptive potency and refreshing taste, despite a hefty mix of spirits. A medley of white rum, gin, tequila, vodka, and a hint of Cointreau, it is balanced with the tang of lemon juice and the sweetness of sugar syrup.</p><p>The inclusion of cola not only contributes to the drink's iconic appearance—resembling a non-alcoholic iced tea—but also adds a familiar, effervescent flavor that complements the complexity of the spirits. Traditionally served in a highball glass, the Long Island Ice Tea is a favorite for those who enjoy a cocktail that packs a punch while remaining pleasantly palatable.</p>

Pardon the interruption

Did you know that you can become a member for free, taking your cocktail making skills up to level 11. You can save your My Bar ingredients, make tasting notes, have personalised Tried and Want to try lists and more.

Ingredients

Method
How to make a Long Island Iced Tea

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Fill a tall glass (like a highball or hurricane glass) with ice
Pour in 15ml each of vodka, white rum, gin, tequila blanco, and Cointreau
Add 30ml of fresh lemon juice and 20ml of simple syrup
Stir gently to combine all the ingredients
Top up the glass with cola to fill—around 60–90ml depending on your glass size
Give it one final gentle stir to blend the flavours
Garnish with a lemon wedge or slice, and serve with a straw
View the full recipe
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Hurricane glass

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
Cocktail Of The Day
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)
Invented
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(1954)
Base ingredient
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White rum
Calories
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245 calories
Garnish
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Pineapple, cocktail cherry
Alcohol content
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15.38% | 2 units *
Details
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Easy
Classic

<p>The Piña Colada is a popular tropical cocktail that originated in Puerto Rico. It is a refreshing and creamy drink that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.</p><p>The name Piña Colada means "strained pineapple" in Spanish and the cocktail is made with a combination of pineapple juice, white rum, and coconut cream. The flavors of this drink meld perfectly together to create a balance of sweet and tangy notes.</p><p>The pineapple juice adds a tropical fruity taste, while the white rum adds a hint of spice. The creaminess of the coconut cream adds a smooth and velvety texture to the drink.</p><p>With its iconic blend of flavors and island vibes, the Piña Colada has become a beloved classic in the cocktail world.</p>

Ingredients

Method
How to make a Piña colada

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Add all ingredients to a blender with ice and blend until smooth
Pour into a hurricane glass
Garnish with a slice of pineapple and a cocktail cherry before serving
~ Historically a few drops of fresh lime juice was added to taste. // Four slices of fresh pineapple can be used instead of juice ~
View the full recipe
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Cocktail glass

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
15 key ingredients
Cocktail Of The Day
Invented
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(1930)
Base ingredient
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Lemon vodka
Calories
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151 calories
Garnish
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Lemon
Alcohol content
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22% | 2.2 units *
Details
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Easy
Classic
Shaken

<p>The origins of the Cosmopolitan are somewhat disputed. It is likely that the drink was created independently by different bartenders since the 1970s.</p><p>It is generally recognised that John Caine brought the drink to San Francisco around 1987 from the Midwest. The same year in Manhattan, the internationally recognised version of the cocktail was created by Toby Cecchini, based on a poorly described version of Cheryl Cook's creation.</p>

Ingredients

Method
How to make a Cosmopolitan

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker with plenty of ice, and shake until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a twist of lemon peel before serving
View the full recipe
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Cocktail glass

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
Cocktail Of The Day
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)
Invented
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1922
Base ingredient
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Cognac
Calories
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193 calories
Alcohol content
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31.11% | 2.8 units *
Details
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Classic
Shaken

<p>The Sidecar is a classic cocktail steeped in history, believed to have been invented around the end of World War I in either London or Paris. The Sidecar strikes a balance between the robust warmth of cognac and the sharp, citrus notes provided by freshly squeezed lemon juice, complemented by a touch of sweetness and complexity from the triple sec.</p><p>Traditionally served in a chilled cocktail glass, the drink's presentation is elegant and timeless. Its flavor profile is a harmonious blend of tart and sweet, making it a sophisticated choice for a before-dinner aperitif.</p><p>The Sidecar remains a favored choice among those who appreciate classic cocktails with an illustrious past.</p>

Ingredients

Method
How to make a Sidecar

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Add all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and serve
View the full recipe
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Cocktail glass

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
15 key ingredients
Cocktail Of The Day
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)
Invented
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(1902)
Base ingredient
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White rum
Calories
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130 calories
Alcohol content
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26.67% | 2.4 units *
Details
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Classic
Shaken

<p>The classic cocktail Daiquiri has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the late 1800s in Cuba. It is said to have been invented by an American mining engineer who mixed white rum, lime juice, and sugar together as a refreshing drink for his workers.</p><p>Over time, the recipe evolved to include different variations, but the traditional Daiquiri still consists of three simple ingredients: lime juice, white rum, and sugar. The tangy and citrusy lime juice balances out the sweetness of the sugar and the strong kick of the white rum, creating a well-balanced and refreshing flavour profile.</p><p>This cocktail has become a staple of bars and mixology, loved for its simplicity and versatility. It can be served straight up, on the rocks, or blended with ice, making it the perfect drink for any occasion.</p>

Ingredients

Method
How to make a Daiquiri

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice
Stir well to dissolve the sugar
Shake well for 10-15 seconds or until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and serve
View the full recipe

Mixology has been stirred and shaken by diverse hands throughout its history, with contributions from various groups, especially those often overlooked, painting a fuller picture of cocktail heritage.

Uncovering Black Mixologists

Black mixologists have been crafting major cocktail contributions, yet they often go unacknowledged. Take Tiffanie Barriere from Atlanta—she’s not just mixing drinks but cooking up a book to spotlight the overlooked Black cocktail creators. Her mission is to make sure these pioneers get the credit they deserve for spiking the cocktail scene with their flair (Sweet July).

Down in Los Angeles, Phil Wills has spent over a decade mixing it up in the industry. Alongside learning from legendary bartenders, he co-founded Spirits in Motion—a consultancy that shakes up the spotlight, focusing on Black mixologists and their innovative magic (Sweet July). Celebrating these talents not only boosts the mixology narrative but also toasts to creativity and cultural richness.

Leading Mixologists Today

Today’s cocktail scene is buzzing with talent pushing the limits of drink-making. They’re mixing old-school techniques with fresh flavors and quirky presentations, serving up some serious excitement for cocktail fans. Standout names include:

Mixologist Name Notable Contributions
Tiffanie Barriere Advocating recognition for Black mixologists and penning a book that adds depth to cocktail history.
Phil Wills Poured energy into Spirits in Motion, showcasing Black creators and elevating the art of cocktails.

These mixologists play a vital role in cocktails' ongoing evolution, ensuring diverse cultural influences are celebrated in every glass. For those curious about the craft’s roots, dig into more resources on the history of cocktails or check out cocktail history books highlighting mixology’s trailblazers.

Influential Bartenders

Some bartenders have flipped the cocktail game on its head throughout history, leaving it shaken—not stirred. Let’s jam on three such legends: Jerry Thomas, Harry Craddock, and Ada Coleman. These trailblazers didn't just mix drinks; they stirred up a whole revolution in cocktails.

Jerry Thomas: The Father of American Mixology

Jerry Thomas, the original maestro behind the bar, is often hailed as the godfather of cocktails in the U.S. He scribbled down the very first cocktail bible, "The Bon Vivant’s Companion," back in 1862. This book didn't just put bartending on the map; it turned it into a legit art form and a manual for anyone wanting to mix drinks like a pro (Casual Mixologist).

Thomas wasn’t just collecting dust behind a single bar. Nope, he hit up countless spots across the U.S. and Europe, dazzling folks with his creative concoctions and larger-than-life bartending flair. His teachings are still alive and kicking, with his classic recipes poured over bars everywhere.

Key Contributions Description
First Cocktail Book Dropped “The Bon Vivant’s Companion”
Mixology Pioneer Put bartending in the art scene
Innovative Cocktails Legacy cocktails still in play

Harry Craddock and The Savoy Cocktail Book

Swinging over to Harry Craddock, this guy was the star of the show at London’s Savoy Hotel in the early 1900s. His masterpiece, "The Savoy Cocktail Book," hit shelves in 1930, overflowing with cocktail recipes and showing off the classic drinks of the time.

Craddock didn’t just whip up drinks; he made them famous. His cocktail playbook still serves as a go-to for bartenders everywhere—rookies and veterans alike.

Key Contributions Description
The Savoy Cocktail Book Packed with cocktail wisdom
Bartending at Savoy Superstar at a top-notch hotel
Popularized Techniques Refined bartending styles still used today

Ada Coleman and Her Cocktail Legacy

Meet Ada Coleman, a bartender who truly played in the big leagues of the early 1900s. She wasn’t just any bartender at the Savoy Hotel; she was famous for her “Hanky Panky” cocktail. This magical mix of sweet vermouth, gin, and a dash of Fernet Branca still charms today.

Ada wasn't just mixing drinks; she was mixing it up, shaking up a male-dominated scene, and paving the way for other women in the profession. Her genius and knack with cocktails keep her name alive in the biz.

Key Contributions Description
Hanky Panky Cocktail Crafted this iconic drink
Trailblazer for Women A powerhouse for future female bartenders
Influential Mixologist Famed for her mix of skill and flair

These bartending all-stars served up more than just drinks. They set the stage for our bustling cocktail culture that’s still hopping today. Thirsty for more on cocktail roots or curious about other famous face shakers? Dive into our treasure trove featuring more history of cocktails and famous cocktail inventors.

Modern Mixology's True Innovators

Mixology has come a long way, and there's no denying a couple of pioneers who've really given it a shiny spin. Step into a bar, and you'll see the cleverness of folks like Dick Bradsell and Jim Meehan lighting up the cocktail menu with their genius.

Dick Bradsell: The Cocktail Comeback King of the '90s

Imagine cocktails getting a little stale. That's where Dick Bradsell swooped in and jazzed things up! His playground was London, a city thirsty for something fresh. With his mind-bending creativity, out came lovable sips like the Espresso Martini and the Bramble that just screamed flavor and flair. Seriously, this guy didn’t just shake things up—he catapulted craftsmanship over mediocrity.

Shrink Expand recipe card

Lowball / rocks glass

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
Cocktail Of The Day
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)
Base ingredient
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Gin
Calories
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206 calories
Garnish
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Lemon, blackberry
Alcohol content
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22.81% | 1.82 units *

<p>The Bramble is a classic cocktail that offers a delightful combination of tart and sweet flavors, wrapped in a visually appealing package. Created in the 1980s by bartender Dick Bradsell in London, it has since become a beloved choice for gin enthusiasts.</p><p>With its base of gin complemented by the citrusy tang of fresh lemon juice and the sweetness of sugar syrup, the cocktail achieves a refreshing balance. It's the drizzle of blackberry liqueur that gives the Bramble its distinctive taste and its name, as it evokes the bramble bushes where the berries are found.</p><p>Typically served in a lowball glass, this cocktail is a celebration of the flavors of the English countryside.</p>

Ingredients

Method
How to make a Bramble

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Add gin, lemon juice and syrup to a rocks glass over ice
Stir, then pour the blackberry liqueur over the top of the drink in a circular fashion
Garnish with a lemon slice, and two blackberries, and serve
View the full recipe
Shrink Expand recipe card

Cocktail glass

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
15 key ingredients
Cocktail Of The Day
Base ingredient
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Coffee
Calories
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220 calories
Alcohol content
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22.61% | 2.6 units *
Details
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Classic
Shaken

<p>Created by Dick Bradsell in 1983 and now loved the world over, this is the best-balanced combination for a lovely Espresso Martini.</p>

Ingredients

Method
How to make a Espresso Martini

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice
Shake vigorously; it should be somewhat frothy
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and serve
~ Depending on your palette you may wish to add a little sugar syrup to the mix before shaking. ~
View the full recipe

What Bradsell did was like giving a dull piece of coal a good polish to unearth a diamond. With fresh berries here, a swish of gin there, suddenly the cocktail game in London was on fire! You can almost taste the excitement he poured into those glasses.

What He Did Sips to Try
Espresso Martini Coffee lovers' heaven in a glass
Bramble When gin and fruit find wedded bliss
Cocktail Renaissance Got bartenders dreaming big again

Jim Meehan and the Cool Speakeasy Scene

Then there's Jim Meehan, who slid into the mixology scene with flair. He took the speakeasy vibe and turned it into quite the adventure. Talking doors and secret phone booths greeted patrons looking for the hidden gem known as PDT (Please Don’t Tell). Open since 2007, PDT isn’t just any bar; it’s more like a tale waiting to happen, lined up with spirits and stories.

Oh, and Jim didn’t just stop at mixing drinks. He went on to write Meehan’s Bartender Manual, spilling the secrets and tricks of the trade, giving newbies a peek into the world of mixology. He's the guy who mixes old-school charm with a splash of new-age vibes, sparking fresh passion in the cocktail world.

What He Brought Hidden Gems
PDT A one-of-a-kind speakeasy
Author Wrote a must-read for upcoming bartenders
Revved Up Interest Brought cocktail exploration back in vogue

Both Bradsell and Meehan have spun their magic to make every sip an adventure. Their shake-ups gave not just a shake to cocktails but handed down a legacy to both pros and new fans. Ready to explore more? Check out how other cocktail icons changed the sip game over at famous cocktail inventors and dive into the history of cocktails.

History

This post is part of a cluster of articles on the same topic. You can find the other articles in the cluster below.

Mixing it Right: Crafting Prohibition Era Cocktails with a Twist

6 months ago

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The story of vintage cocktails is a wild ride, rooted in cultural shifts and the outlaw allure of the Prohibition era. Those dry years didn't just put a damper on the drinking scene in America—they ac...

Toast to Tradition: Delving into the Rich History of Cocktails

8 months ago

Jumping into the history of cocktails is like unraveling a mystery filled with bold innovations and clever concoctions. This part dives into the fascinating birth of mixed drinks and their journey to...

Embracing Tradition: Engaging Cocktail History Books to Explore

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Unraveling Cocktail History: A Timeline of Origins and Innovations

1 year ago

Ready for a sip through time? The tale of cocktails is as flavorful as the drinks themselves, meandering through olden days and across centuries. Unraveling this timeline can truly amp up one's love f...

A Sip Through Time: Delving into the Evolution of Mixology

11 months ago

Ever wondered how cocktails came to be that delightful mix of flavors we love today? Their history is a fascinating journey that goes way back to ancient times. Folks have been tinkering with drinks f...

Crafting Cocktail History: Celebrating the Genius of Famous Inventors

8 months ago

It's pretty cool to see what some legendary bartenders cooked up over the years. We're going to chat about two bar legends, Harry Craddock and Dale DeGroff, both of whom deserve a nod for shaking up t...

The Rise and Influence: Understanding Cocktail Revolution History

11 months ago

Let's take a jaunt through the lively and surprising history of cocktails, from their hazy beginnings to the flavorful rebellion during Prohibition that left a lasting mark on our drink culture. &quot...

Legendary Libations: Iconic Cocktail Moments in History

6 months ago

Mixing drinks isn't just a party trick; it's a craft passed down through the ages, like grandma’s secret brownie recipe. It all kicked off in the 19th century with a breakthrough moment—a cocktail rec...

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