How to Make 3 Classic Cocktails: Old Fashioned, Margarita, and Negroni

How to Make 3 Classic Cocktails: Old Fashioned, Margarita, and Negroni

Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a quiet evening, or just want to impress your friends with your bartending skills, knowing how to make a few classic cocktails is a must. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create three timeless drinks: the Old Fashioned, Margarita, and Negroni. Let’s get shaking (or stirring)!

1. Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a simple yet sophisticated cocktail that has stood the test of time. It’s a favorite among whiskey lovers and is known for its smooth, slightly sweet, and aromatic flavor.

Ingredients:

2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
1 sugar cube or 1/2 tsp simple syrup
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Orange peel
Ice

Instructions:

Place the sugar cube in a glass (preferably an Old Fashioned glass) and add the bitters. If using simple syrup, just add the bitters to the syrup.
Muddle the sugar and bitters until the sugar is dissolved.
Add a large ice cube or a few smaller ones to the glass.
Pour the whiskey over the ice.
Stir gently for about 20-30 seconds.
Express the oils from an orange peel over the glass by twisting it, then drop the peel into the drink as a garnish.
Enjoy your perfectly balanced Old Fashioned!

2. Margarita

The Margarita is a refreshing cocktail that’s both tangy and sweet, with just the right amount of kick. It’s a perfect choice for a sunny day or a lively gathering.

Ingredients:

2 oz tequila
1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
1 oz Cointreau or Triple Sec
Salt for rimming the glass
Lime wedge
Ice

Instructions:

Rim a glass (preferably a margarita glass) with lime juice, then dip it in salt to coat the rim.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Add the tequila, lime juice, and Cointreau to the shaker.
Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
Garnish with a lime wedge on the rim.
Sip and savor the classic Margarita!

3. Negroni

The Negroni is an iconic Italian cocktail known for its bold, bittersweet flavor. It’s a favorite among those who appreciate a complex and balanced drink.

Ingredients:

1 oz gin
1 oz Campari
1 oz sweet vermouth
Orange peel
Ice

Instructions:

Fill a mixing glass with ice.
Add the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
Stir the mixture for about 30 seconds until well chilled.
Strain into a chilled glass (preferably a rocks glass) over a large ice cube.
Express the oils from an orange peel over the glass by twisting it, then drop the peel into the drink as a garnish.
Enjoy your sophisticated Negroni!

These three classic cocktails—the Old Fashioned, Margarita, and Negroni—are more than just drinks; they’re a celebration of flavors, tradition, and craft. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or just starting out, mastering these recipes will elevate your home bartending game. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and toast to the art of making a great cocktail. Cheers!