Unleash 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!
15 Vintage Drinks That Deserve a Comeback
Updated on Jul. 15, 2024
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.
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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.
If you enjoy cocktails, then you’ve probably heard of an espresso martini. Before moving ahead check how to make an Espresso Martini with the classic frothy top.
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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).
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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.
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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!
Here’s the story behind the hot toddy.
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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.
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Brandy Old-Fashioned Sweet
Total Time
10 mins
Servings
1 serving
From the Recipe Creator:
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. Learn how to make this classic old-fashioned cocktail.
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 277 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 18mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
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.
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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.
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.
9/15
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.
Here’s what you don’t know about the Sazerac.
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White Russian
Total Time
5 mins
Servings
1 serving
From the Recipe Creator:
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
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 580 calories, 33g fat (21g saturated fat), 122mg cholesterol, 39mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
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.
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Paloma
Total Time
5 mins
Servings
1 serving
From the Recipe Creator:
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
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 148 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 163mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
14/15
Martini Recipe
Total Time
5 mins
Servings
1 serving
From the Recipe Creator:
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
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 209 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 5mg sodium, 0 carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
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Gimlet
Total Time
5 mins
Servings
1 serving
From the Recipe Creator:
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
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 196 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
