What are the classic cocktails?
The fascinating stories behind 10 classic cocktails
Mixology, much more than a simple science of blends, is the subtle art of transforming ingredients into memorable sensory experiences. For mixology professionals, understanding and mastering classic cocktails are essential to create a strong foundation in this constantly evolving universe.
- Martini: Timeless Elegance
The Martini, an icon of elegance, traces its roots back to the 19th century. Originally from the United States, this classic cocktail has evolved over the decades. Originally composed of gin and vermouth, individual preferences led to variations, including the famous Dry Martini.
- Old Fashioned: Back to Basics
The Old Fashioned, born in the 1800s, is the true ancestor of cocktails. Originally simply called a "whiskey cocktail," bars of the time began to add sugar, water, and citrus, creating a timeless classic.
- Negroni: Italian Balance
Created in Florence in 1919, the Negroni is the result of a special request from an Italian count. The equal mix of gin, red vermouth, and Campari offers a unique balance between bitter, sweet, and strong.
- Manhattan: Glass Elegance
The Manhattan, born in the early 20th century in New York, is a tribute to the city that never sleeps. The story goes that it was created at the Manhattan Club by a local politician for a party attended by Lady Randolph Churchill.
- Mojito: Cuban Freshness
Originating from Cuba, the Mojito has roots dating back to the 16th century. Initially used as a remedy for dysentery, the cocktail evolved into a refreshing drink with rum, sugar, lime, mint, and soda water.
- Daiquiri: Cuban History
The Daiquiri is another Cuban treasure. Created in the 1890s at the Daiquirà iron mine, this simple cocktail made with rum, sugar, and lime juice has won the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide.
- Cosmopolitan: Glamour and Celebrity
Popularized in the 1990s by the TV series "Sex and the City," the Cosmopolitan has its roots in the 1930s. Created in San Francisco, it was revitalized by modern tastes and urban lifestyle.
- Bloody Mary: For Foggy Mornings
The Bloody Mary, often considered a hangover remedy, has a blurry history. It is believed to have emerged in the 1920s or 1930s. The classic recipe combines vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, and celery.
- Gin Tonic: British Refreshment
The Gin Tonic, an emblematic drink of British colonial evenings in India, has become a global classic. Quinine added to the drink to prevent malaria has evolved into a refreshing beverage appreciated for its aromatic notes.
- Whiskey Sour: Sweet and Sour
The origins of the Whiskey Sour go back to 18th-century British sailors. To prevent scurvy, they mixed lemon juice with sugar and rum. Later, whiskey replaced rum, giving rise to this classic sour drink.
Each of these classic cocktails tells a fascinating story, connecting the past and present through the glass, while continuing to evolve with the contemporary preferences of mixology enthusiasts.
Classic cocktails are not just drinks; they are spokespersons of an era, symbols of culture and refinement. For mixology professionals, mastering these classics offers not only a legacy but also a blank canvas for innovation.
The quest for classic cocktails is a continuous exploration, a journey that blends tradition and creativity. By understanding the fundamentals, mixology professionals can transcend expectations, offering unique experiences with each poured glass. Mixology, a true art in perpetual evolution, invites everyone to explore, experiment, and, above all, share these discoveries with the world of mixology.