15 Vintage Drinks That Deserve a Comeback
Updated: Mar. 20, 2019Unleash your inner mixologist to concoct a round of vintage drinks. From the mint julep to the sippable Sazerac, these cocktails should all be classics. Cheers!
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.
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.
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).
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.
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!
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.
Old Fashioned
The old fashioned is an iconic cocktail in some parts of the country. The ingredients are simple (brandy or whiskey, bitters, lemon-lime soda, orange juice, muddled cherries and sugar), but making the drink properly is an art form.
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.
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.
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.
White Russian
Satisfy your coffee craving with Jeffrey “The Dude” Lebowski’s favorite drink. A no-funny-stuff blend of vodka, Kahlua and heavy whipping cream or milk, the White Russian is a nightcap that can be enjoyed up by the fire or at the bowling alley.
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.
Paloma
Tequila and grapefruit soda are the stars of this sparkling cocktail. For extra flavor, rim the glass with salt. Enjoy on the patio during the summertime or at the dinner table paired with one of these spicy Mexican dishes. Fun fact: Paloma is the Spanish word for dove.
Martini
Writer E. B. White called it “the elixir of quietude.” If you’re feeling 1950s bold, this classic martini recipe has your name written all over it. The martini has become an iconic drink due to its simplicity and strength. Extra olives, please!
Gimlet
Craving a boozy cocktail with just the right amount of kick? Take pleasure in the gimlet, a not-too-sweet, not-too-tart cocktail that originated in the Roaring Twenties. (Not a gin fan? Try vodka instead.)
CMU Unit
