8 of the world's favourite classic cocktails as mixed by Liquorland Toast
These are the cocktails whose names appear in songs, that characters in books and movies order. They're classics with special, reserved places in every bartender's cabinet.
This article was created in partnership with Liquorland
Oxford Dictionaries define cocktail as "An alcoholic drink consisting of a spirit or spirits mixed with other ingredients, such as fruit juice or cream". But if you ask anyone for an example, they are bound to name one of these tipples. From sweet to bitter, sour to spicy, these are the drinks that have stood the test of time.
Scroll down to see what made the list.
The Margarita
The Margarita's true origin story is lost to the sands of time, and no one really knows who invented it or why - but one prevailing tale is that it was named after the actress Rita Hayworth, when she was offered an icy glass of the (dubiously) Mexican beverage in the 1940s, at a theatre gig in the 1940s.
This version adds a touch of spice to the icy, piquant classic. Make a jug of it and serve by the pool.
The Dirty Martini
So named because it contains a splash of olive juice or brine, the dirty martini was allegedly made famous when Franklin D.Roosevelt served them to Joseph Stalin and Winston Churchill when they met during World War II.
If you feel like James Bond ordering a Martini at a bar, you'll feel even cooler sipping away at home.
Click here for the recipe.
The Old Fashioned
The name 'old fashioned' comes from when the recipe was first noted down in 1806, when it was given its full name: 'The Old-Fashioned Whiskey Cocktail'.
A bourbon lover's dream, emphasising the sweetness with sugar and the spice with a twist of orange, try this cocktail with a large chunk of ice and enjoy.
The Negroni
It's no secret that the dish team is particularly fond of the Negroni - and if you're a fan of bitter flavours and haven't tried one of these, you're missing out.
Give it a go - especially if you're a fan of black coffee!
The Piña Colada
Make your piña colada extra-special by serving them direct from the pineapple! Coconut shells work too if that's what you have on hand but really good rum is non-negotiable.
Please note, getting caught in the rain is not a necessary step in the making of this summer treat.
Click here for the recipe.
The Tequila Sunrise
Another drink with a song - but this one is also a movie, not to mention a delicious drink that has stood the test of time. Best served with maraschino cherries, orange slices, chilli slices and plenty of sunshine.
Sparkling Sidecar
The Ritz Hotel in Paris claims to be where the sidecar cocktail was invented, however, the exact origins can't be exactly pinpointed. It was invented around World War I in either Paris or London. The Drink was named after the motorcycle attachment, which was popular at the time.
This festive version adds a bit of bubbly to the classic, transforming it into the perfect tipple for any party.
Strawberry Daquiri
Make this delicious icy drink with fresh New Zealand strawberries; it's a fantastic way to use up the slightly mushy ones at the end!
Bartenders love this drink for the balance of sweet and sour, but the icy coolness also makes it the perfect warm weather drink.
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