History of Cocktails And How It Took Over The World, Best Types To Try

How much do you really know about the cocktail? You already know you like to have one before (or with) dinner and that it's best-served ice cold. Wine, beer, and spirits are just a few examples of alcohol, but what makes anything a cocktail? A cocktail is a beverage that, in its most basic form, combines a number of components, at least one of which is alcoholic, into a single finished beverage. The simplest cocktails include a small number of ingredients, whilst more complex ones can have up to six or seven. According to certain definitions, a cocktail needs both fruit juice and a spirit. Others define a cocktail as containing a sugar, a bitter, and a spirit. The terms "mocktail" or "non-alcoholic cocktail" are typically used to describe cocktails that don't include alcohol.

The History Of Cocktails

The exact origins of the cocktail are shrouded in mystery, but it's believed to have originated in the early 19th century. At that time, drinking was a daily part of life for many people, but most drinks were not very palatable. Spirits like whiskey and gin were often harsh and unrefined, and the mixers used to dilute them were often of poor quality.

One of the first recorded references to the cocktail dates back to 1806, in a publication called The Balance and Columbian Repository. In an article entitled "Cocktail," the author described a concoction made with spirits, sugar, water, and bitters, which he claimed was a cure for a hangover. The article went on to say that the cocktail was a "stimulating liquor" that was "excellent for the head."

But while this early cocktail recipe may have been a cure for a hangover, it wasn't exactly what we think of as a cocktail today. Over time, bartenders began experimenting with new flavours and ingredients, and the cocktail began to evolve into the delicious libation we know and love today.

One of the most influential figures in the history of the cocktail was a man named Jerry Thomas. Thomas was a bartender and mixologist who worked in New York City in the mid-19th century. He was known for his elaborate cocktail recipes and his showmanship behind the bar. Thomas was one of the first bartenders to write down his recipes, and his book, The Bartender's Guide, is still considered a classic today.

Another key player in the evolution of the cocktail was the city of New Orleans. In the mid-1800s, New Orleans was a bustling port city, and it was home to a vibrant drinking culture. One of the most popular drinks of the time was the Sazerac, a cocktail made with rye whiskey, absinthe, and bitters. Legend has it that the Sazerac was invented by a local pharmacist named Antoine Peychaud, who served it to his friends and customers in a coquetier, or egg cup.

As the 19th century gave way to the 20th, the cocktail continued to evolve and become more sophisticated. Prohibition, which lasted from 1920 to 1933, had a significant impact on the cocktail culture of the United States. With the sale of alcohol illegal, people began to seek out speakeasies, and underground bars where they could drink in secret. Bartenders at speakeasies had to be creative with the limited ingredients they had, and they often used fruit juices, herbs, and other flavourings to mask the taste of bootleg liquor.

When Prohibition ended in 1933, the cocktail experienced a resurgence in popularity. Bartenders began experimenting with new spirits and flavours, and the cocktail became more than just a way to get drunk – it became an art form. Cocktails like the Martini, the Manhattan, and the Old Fashioned became classics, and new drinks like the Cosmopolitan and the Mojito became household names.

Today, the cocktail continues to evolve and adapt to new tastes and trends. Mixologists around the world are experimenting with new ingredients and techniques, and the result is a cocktail culture that is more vibrant and exciting than ever before.

In conclusion, the history of the cocktail is a story of creativity, innovation, and above all, deliciousness. From the humble origins of the early 19th century to the modern craft cocktail movement, the cocktail

Famous Cocktails Around The World

There are many famous cocktails enjoyed around the world, but here are a few examples:

Margarita

A Margarita is a popular cocktail that is typically made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec or Cointreau. The ingredients are shaken or blended with ice, and the cocktail is traditionally served in a salt-rimmed glass. Margaritas can be served on the rocks (over ice) or blended with ice to create a frozen Margarita. There are also many variations of the Margarita cocktail, which may include different types of tequila, flavoured liqueurs, and fruit juices. Some common variations include the Cadillac Margarita (which uses high-quality tequila and Grand Marnier), the Strawberry Margarita (which includes fresh strawberries or strawberry puree), and the Mango Margarita (which includes mango puree or juice). Margaritas are often associated with Mexican cuisine and are a popular choice for happy hour or social gatherings.

Mojito

A Mojito is a popular Cuban cocktail that is made with white rum, lime juice, sugar, mint leaves, and soda water. The ingredients are typically muddled (crushed together) in a glass or cocktail shaker, then poured over ice and topped with soda water.

The exact origin of the Mojito is uncertain, but it is believed to have been created in Havana, Cuba in the late 19th century. It is a refreshing cocktail that is often served in warm weather or tropical climates.

There are many variations of the Mojito cocktail, which may include different types of rum, fruit juices, and herbs. Some common variations include the Mango Mojito (which includes mango puree or juice), the Strawberry Mojito (which includes fresh strawberries or strawberry puree), and the Coconut Mojito (which includes coconut cream or coconut water). The Mojito is a popular choice for summertime parties or beach gatherings.

Cosmopolitan

Vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice are the main ingredients of the Cosmopolitan, a well-liked cocktail. Usually, a wedge of lemon or lime and a martini glass are used as garnishes.

The Cosmopolitan gained popularity in the 1990s and was popularized by the television show "Sex and the City." It is often associated with a sophisticated and trendy style. The cocktail's pink colour and sweet-tart flavour make it a popular choice for happy hour or social events.

There are many variations of the Cosmopolitan cocktail, which may include different types of vodka or flavoured liqueurs. Some common variations include the Raspberry Cosmo (which includes raspberry puree), the Blueberry Cosmo (which includes blueberry puree), and the Ginger Cosmo (which includes ginger liqueur).

Martini

A classic cocktail known as a martini is normally mixed with gin and vermouth and topped with an olive or a lemon twist. Usually, it is offered in a chilled martini glass.

The exact origin of the Martini is uncertain, but it is believed to have been created in the late 19th century. It is a sophisticated cocktail that has become an iconic symbol of cocktail culture.

There are many variations of the Martini cocktail, which may include different types of gin or vodka and varying amounts of vermouth. Some common variations include the Dirty Martini (which includes olive brine), the Gin Martini (which is made with gin and a small amount of vermouth), and the Vodka Martini (which is made with vodka instead of gin). The Martini is a popular choice for cocktail parties, upscale bars, and fine dining restaurants.

Negroni

A Negroni is a classic cocktail that is made with equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari. It is typically served on the rocks (over ice) in an old-fashioned glass and garnished with an orange peel.

The Negroni cocktail originated in Italy in the early 20th century and is named after Count Camillo Negroni, who supposedly asked a bartender to strengthen his Americano cocktail (which is made with Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda water) by replacing the soda water with gin.

The Negroni has a bold and bitter flavour that is often enjoyed as an aperitif (before a meal) or as a nightcap. It has gained popularity in recent years and has become a staple of cocktail culture.

There are many variations of the Negroni cocktail, which may include different types of gin or vermouth, and varying amounts of Campari. Some common variations include the Boulevardier (which is made with bourbon instead of gin), the White Negroni (which is made with gin, Lillet Blanc, and Suze), and the Negroni Sbagliato (which is made with sparkling wine instead of gin).

Pina Colada

A Piña Colada is a sweet and creamy cocktail that is made with rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream. It is typically served blended with ice in hurricane glass and garnished with a slice of pineapple and a maraschino cherry.

The Piña Colada is a popular tropical cocktail that is often associated with beach vacations and summertime parties. It originated in Puerto Rico in the 1950s and quickly became a popular drink in the United States and around the world.

There are many variations of the Piña Colada cocktail, which may include different types of rum or fruit juices. Some common variations include the Strawberry Piña Colada (which includes fresh strawberries or strawberry puree), the Mango Piña Colada (which includes mango puree or juice), and the Blue Piña Colada (which includes blue curacao liqueur for blue colour). The Piña Colada is a popular choice for beach bars, tiki bars, and poolside gatherings.

These are just a few examples of the many famous cocktails enjoyed around the world.

Cocktails Today

Cocktails continue to be popular in today's world, with a wide variety of cocktail styles and flavours available. Cocktails are often associated with social gatherings, nightlife, and entertainment, and they are a popular choice for celebrations, parties, and special occasions.

Cocktail culture has grown in recent years, with an increased focus on quality ingredients, craft cocktails, and unique flavour combinations. Many bars and restaurants offer extensive cocktail menus with creative and innovative drinks, and there are many specialized cocktail bars and speakeasies that have become popular destinations for cocktail enthusiasts.

Cocktail trends are constantly evolving, with new ingredients, techniques, and flavour combinations emerging all the time. In addition, there is a growing interest in low-alcohol and non-alcoholic cocktails, which cater to those who want to enjoy the flavours and experience of a cocktail without the effects of alcohol.

Overall, cocktails are seen as a fun and enjoyable way to socialize and celebrate, and they continue to be a beloved aspect of modern culture.