15 Vintage Drinks That Deserve a Comeback

Sidecar

The sidecar was popular with bar patrons and partygoers after World War I. Traditionally made with bourbon, triple sec liqueur and lemon juice, this invigorating libation sips like a dream. Enjoy with these vintage recipes for oysters Rockefeller, roast duck and more.

Get Recipe

Brandy Alexander

Attention, chocolate aficionados: If you’re in the mood for a boozy dessert-like drink, make yourself a Brandy Alexander. This sweet, smooth brandy-based cocktail calls for creme de cacao, heavy cream and nutmeg, making it a lovely party potion.

Get Recipe

Tom Collins

This simple and refreshing drink is made by blending gin with fresh orange, lemon and lime juices, simple syrup and club soda. It was first memorialized by the “Father of American Mixology,” Jerry Thomas, in 1876. It is typically served “on the rocks” (over ice).

Get Recipe

Sloe Gin Fizz

Sip slowly and savor this effervescent fruit cooler. The perfect balance of sweet and tart, this drink gets its punchy flavor and ruby red color from sloe gin, a liqueur made with sloe drupes, a small plum-like fruit.

Get Recipe

Hot Toddy

The hot toddy is a classic cold-weather nightcap. Some say this magical brew is a great remedy for the common cold, thanks to its healing components: honey, lemon, cinnamon and whiskey. Cheers to that!

Get Recipe

Here’s the story behind the hot toddy.

Mint Julep

Off to the races! Created in the 18th century, the beloved mint julep is commonly known for being the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby. But you can drink this refreshing, minty beverage anywhere, anytime. All you need is bourbon, club soda, fresh mint and raw sugar.

Get Recipe

Brandy Old-Fashioned Sweet

The concept of an old-fashioned dates back to the early 1800s and includes whiskey, bitters, cherry juice, sugar and water. This old-fashioned recipe, which is extremely popular in Wisconsin, uses brandy in place of whiskey and lemon-lime soda instead of water for a milder cocktail. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Manhattan

The namesake of this famous cocktail comes from the hustling-and-bustling New York City borough, where it came onto the scene in the late 1800s. Gather the goods: bourbon, sweet vermouth, angostura bitters, shake well, pour into a glass and garnish with a sweet dark cherry. Simply perfect.

Get Recipe

Negroni

The Negroni is a basic Italian cocktail that every home bartender should know. Frequently enjoyed as an aperitif, this beautiful red refresher consists of a few key ingredients: Campari, gin and sweet vermouth. Serve with an orange peel and enjoy.

Get Recipe

Spice up your Negroni recipe by trying out a Negroni Sbagliato—inspired by a viral TikTok video. Next, try another classic Italian cocktail—aperol spritz.

Sazerac

Next time you visit New Orleans, order a Sazerac. This NOLA-born cocktail takes some special skills to prepare since the method requires two glasses. Licorice-flavored absinthe, smooth rye whiskey, bitters and tart lemon peel are the main flavors in this gem of a drink.

Get Recipe

Here’s what you don’t know about the Sazerac.

White Russian

This creamy coffee-flavored drink is a star at any occasion and perfect for any season. A White Russian is equally appropriate before or after dinner. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Dark and Stormy

Despite its gloomy name, the World War I era Dark and Stormy cocktail has a bright and refreshing flavor. Vivacious ginger beer, smooth dark rum and zesty lime juice make up this vintage highball.

Get Recipe

What is ginger beer, anyway?

Paloma

Soon after I learned about this cocktail, I brought the ingredients to a family dinner at my parents'. The next time we got together, my dad had the fixings set out and ready to go. —Ian Cliffe, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Martini

Martinis recipes can be made with either vodka or gin. Our taste panel's preference was for the gin, but try them both and decide for yourself. Be warned, this is a strong and serious drink. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Gimlet

For the light drinker, suggest a Gimlet. The blend of slightly sweet and tart flavors is appealing, but not overwhelming.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Still thirsty? Don’t forget to try these 15 gin cocktails.