For cocktail lovers seeking more than just the usual suspects, a collective of 13 master bartenders has unveiled a treasure trove of lesser-known drinks. This isn’t about chasing trendy infusions or Instagrammable presentations; it’s a deep dive into the foundations of cocktail culture, showcasing drinks often relegated to the back shelves of bars.
This curated list, compiled through conversations with these industry veterans – detailed in a recent VinePair piece – offers a remarkable range of flavors and techniques, demanding respect and skill from bartenders and rewarding adventurous drinkers. Forget the Negroni and the Manhattan for a moment; these are the cocktails that truly define the art form.
So, what’s on the list? It’s surprisingly diverse.
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A Proper Martini:
Bartenders universally agree on the importance of using vermouth, a critical element often overlooked. “It’s heartbreaking,” says Julian Flores Torres, bar manager at Kalbi Social Club and Robata Wasa, “to see someone order a Martini ‘but no vermouth.’”
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Ti’ Punch:
The vibrant, aromatic rum punch of the Caribbean.
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Caipirinha:
Brazil’s national cocktail, built around cachaça.
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Sazerac:
A New Orleans classic, steeped in history.
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Corpse Reviver No. 2:
A potent, reviving blend.
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Pisco Sour:
Peru’s national cocktail, showcasing the versatility of pisco.
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Sherry Cobbler:
A fortified wine cocktail, often with fruit.
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Adonis:
A sweet, sherry-based cocktail.
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Old Cuban:
A take on the Daiquiri, favored in Havana.
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Egg Cocktails (Flips & Fizzes):
These involve cracking an egg into the drink, creating a foamy texture.
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20th Century Cocktail:
A complex, layered creation.
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Brown Derby:
A creamy, iconic cocktail.
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Gimlet:
A simple, yet refined, gin and lime concoction.
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Champs-Élysées:
A sophisticated French cocktail with Cognac and other ingredients.
These deep cuts represent more than just drinks; they’re a reminder of the craftsmanship and history behind the cocktail world. Support your local bartenders, explore these hidden gems, and rediscover the true essence of a perfectly executed cocktail.
