Meet the Masters: Historical Mixologists and Their Craft
Discover historical mixologists and their craft that shaped cocktail culture through the ages. Cheers!
Jump to
- The Evolution of Cocktails
- Classic Cocktail Origins
- Revival of Cocktail Culture
- Diversity in Mixology History
- Influential Bartenders
- Modern Mixology's True Innovators
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
Highball glass
<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
-
- 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
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
Whisky glass
Microbadges
<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
-
- 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
Cocktail glass
<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
-
- 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
Lowball / rocks glass
Microbadges
<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
-
- Add all the ingredients directly into a lowball glass with ice and stir
-
- Garnish with an orange slice and serve
Highball glass
Microbadges
<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
-
- 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
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
Highball glass
Microbadges
<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
-
- 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
Hurricane glass
Microbadges
<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
-
- 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
Cocktail glass
Microbadges
<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
-
- 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
Cocktail glass
Microbadges
<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
-
- 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
Cocktail glass
Microbadges
<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
-
- 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
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.
Lowball / rocks glass
Microbadges
<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
-
- 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
Cocktail glass
Microbadges
<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
-
- 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
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
The time from 1920 to 1933, known as the Prohibition Era, left a big mark on American culture, especially in terms of cocktails. With booze outlawed during Prohibition, folks had to get sneaky about e...
Chronicles of Flavor: Vintage Cocktails History Revived
6 months ago
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
7 months ago
Looking at the backstory of cocktails gives us a peek into the art of mixing drinks and the concoctions we savor today. Two big themes in this tale are the trailblazing bartenders and the twists and t...
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. "...
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...
Filed with tags
Related posts
The History of the Vesper Cocktail
This classic cocktail was not created by some superstar mixologist in a high-class bar, nor was it adapted from some ancient naval recipe. The Vesper Martini, or simply the Vesper, has a uniquely glam... read more
History of the Hot Toddy
Ask the average person if they’ve ever heard of a Hot Toddy, and they’re likely to say they have. Ask them what a Hot Toddy is, and you may get a variety of answers. The cocktail doesn’t have a standa... read more
Perfecting the art of the Cosmopolitan cocktail
The Cosmopolitan cocktail has become an iconic drink in the world of mixology. Known for its vibrant pink color and sweet-tart taste, the Cosmopolitan is a favorite choice for many cocktail enthusiast... read more
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Get tips straight into your inbox.
Upgrade your mixology
Become a member for free taking your cocktail making skills up to level 11. Or become a premium member to rise to cocktail greatness.
- Save your bar forever
- Access to our Cocktail Creator, allowing you to create your own wonderful concoctions.
- Create personalised cocktail menus for all your events, bars or parties
- Save cocktails to personalised 'Tried' and 'Want to try' lists
- Create and record tasting notes on cocktails
- Create lists of cocktails to share with friends and family
- A personalised MyBar URL, allowing you to share everything you can make with friends
- And much more ... (what to buy next, measurement choices, search personalisation...)
Have you tried our Wordpress Plugin?
Download our plugin and embed cocktail recipes directly onto your own site or blog.
Choose from our whole recipe database, or choose a specific cocktail made with a certain ingredient, and let us place a beautiful recipe on your own site.
Find out more