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Most Popular 1920s Cocktails To Try

Step back in time to the glamorous era of the 1920s, an age of elegance, excess, and clandestine revelry.

sidecar cocktail with lemon peel

Imagine yourself in a dimly lit speakeasy, the air thick with anticipation and the sound of jazz permeating the room. 

It’s the perfect setting to indulge in the iconic cocktails that defined the era. From the timeless sophistication of the Martini to the rebellious allure of the Sidecar, these cocktails were born out of an era that embraced both style and secrecy. 

So, whether you’re channeling your inner Gatsby at a themed party or simply seeking a taste of the past, let the spirit of the 1920s cocktails transport you to a world of vintage charm and irresistible indulgence.

Aviation

This classic cocktail combines the smoothness of gin with the sweetness of maraschino liqueur and the tartness of lemon juice. Its flavors are balanced, resulting in a revitalizing and citrusy drink. 

Aviation Cocktail With Gin

The addition of crème de violette gives it a floral aroma, making it a delight for the senses. Enjoy it in a chilled coupe glass, garnished with a maraschino cherry. 

The Aviation has gained popularity for its elegant and sophisticated character, enticing those who appreciate the complexity of flavors.

Step into the world of mixology and let this enchanting cocktail transport you to new heights.

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Bee’s Knees

The Bee’s Knees is a vibrant and zesty concoction made with gin, honey, and lemon juice. This cocktail strikes a perfect balance between the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of citrus, resulting in a harmonious flavor profile. 

Bee's Knees Cocktail Recipe

Served in a chilled coupe glass, it exudes a sense of elegance and style. The Bee’s Knees has become a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts who seek a cooling and well-rounded drink that effortlessly combines simplicity and sophistication. 

Embrace the buzz and savor the delightful combination of nature’s nectar and citrus’s zest.

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Clover Club

Combining gin, raspberry syrup, lemon juice, and egg white, the Clover Club is a cocktail that is both luscious and tangy.

clover club cocktail served with raspberry garnish

The addition of egg white gives it a velvety texture and a frothy, pinkish appearance. Served in a chilled coupe glass, it is a visually appealing drink that tempts the taste buds.

The Clover Club’s unique blend of flavors has attracted a loyal following, with its balanced sweetness and acidity making it a popular choice among those who appreciate a touch of sophistication in their cocktails. 

Join the club and experience the delightful harmony of fruity and citrusy notes.

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Sidecar

A classic cocktail composed of brandy, orange liqueur, and lemon juice, the Sidecar is a drink that embodies timeless elegance. Its flavors are rich and tangy, with a pleasant warmth from the brandy. 

Sidecar cocktail

Served in a sugar-rimmed glass, the Sidecar exudes sophistication and refinement. This cocktail has stood the test of time and continues to captivate cocktail enthusiasts with its simplicity and complexity. 

Step into the world of vintage mixology and indulge in the velvety smoothness and citrusy allure of the Sidecar.

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French 75

The French 75 is a sparkling cocktail that combines gin, lemon juice, sugar, and Champagne.

french 75 cocktail

This French concoction boasts a delightful marriage of citrus and bubbly, making it a vibrant choice for any occasion. 

Served in a flute glass, it showcases elegance and effervescence. The French 75 has become a beloved cocktail, cherished for its effervescent character and its ability to transport the drinker to the chic cafes of Paris. 

Raise a glass, savor the effervescence, and let this classic drink take you on a sparkling journey.

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Corpse Reviver

As the name suggests, the Corpse Reviver is a cocktail that is meant to revive the spirits. Comprised of gin, lemon juice, Lillet Blanc, and a touch of absinthe, it is a complex and invigorating drink. 

Corpse Reviver No. 2 cocktail

The herbal notes from the absinthe complement the citrusy flavors, resulting in a stimulating and revitalizing drink.

Served in a chilled coupe glass, the Corpse Reviver offers a unique drinking experience that appeals to those seeking bold and intricate flavors. 

Shake off the weariness and awaken your senses with this vibrant and enlivening cocktail.

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Last Word

The Last Word is a cocktail that brings together gin, lime juice, green Chartreuse, and maraschino liqueur. It is a harmonious blend of flavors that results in a truly unique and captivating drink. 

Last Word Cocktail

The Last Word balances the herbaceousness of Chartreuse with the sweetness of maraschino liqueur and the tanginess of lime juice, creating a complex and well-rounded profile.

Served in a chilled coupe glass, it exudes an air of sophistication and intrigue. 

The Last Word has gained a dedicated following among cocktail connoisseurs who appreciate its complexity and depth of flavor. 

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Gin Rickey

When it comes to smooth simplicity, the Gin Rickey takes the spotlight. This cocktail consists of gin, lime juice, and soda water, resulting in a light and invigorating drink.

gin rickey cocktail with lime

The flavors are crisp, with the tangy lime complementing the botanical notes of the gin. 

Served in a highball glass filled with ice, it is the epitome of a cooling and effortless drink. The Gin Rickey has become a beloved choice for those seeking a revitalizing and uncomplicated cocktail that can be enjoyed on a warm summer day or as a crisp pick-me-up. 

Embrace the simplicity and let the Gin Rickey be your go-to drink for a moment of pure refreshment.

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Blood and Sand

With a name as intriguing as its flavors, the Blood and Sand cocktail combines Scotch whisky, orange juice, sweet vermouth, and cherry liqueur.

Homemade Smokey Blood and Sand Cocktail with Orange Juice and Scotch

This unexpected blend results in a complex and harmonious drink that showcases both smoky and fruity notes. Served in a chilled coupe glass, it presents a captivating visual appeal. 

The Blood and Sand has gained popularity among adventurous drinkers who appreciate its bold and unique flavor profile. 

Embark on a journey of taste and let this cocktail transport you to the smoky landscapes and vibrant sunsets of its namesake film.

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Boulevardier

The Boulevardier is a cocktail that brings together bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari, creating a robust and bittersweet drink.

Boulevardier cocktail recipe

Its flavors are complex, with the richness of bourbon blending seamlessly with the herbal and citrusy notes of Campari and sweet vermouth. 

Nestled in a glass filled with icy allure, it exudes a sense of sophistication and depth. The Boulevardier has earned a devoted following among those who enjoy the complexity of bitter cocktails and the interplay of contrasting flavors. 

Raise your glass to the allure of the boulevards and savor the intriguing harmony of this captivating concoction.

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Hanky Panky

The Hanky Panky is a cocktail that surprises with its intricate blend of gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca.

Boozy Classic Hanky Panky Cocktail with Gin and an Orange Garnish

Its flavors are bold and sophisticated, with the herbal bitterness of Fernet-Branca accentuating the botanicals of the gin and the sweetness of vermouth. 

Served in a chilled coupe glass, it showcases elegance and allure. The Hanky Panky has become a favorite among adventurous imbibers who seek a drink that pushes the boundaries of flavor. 

Embark on a journey of taste and indulge in the enigmatic charm of the Hanky Panky cocktail. Let its complexity and allure leave a lasting impression on your palate.

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Mint Julep

The Mint Julep is a classic cocktail that embodies the essence of Southern hospitality. With a base of bourbon, muddled fresh mint, sugar, and crushed ice, it creates a citrusy and invigorating drink. 

Mint Julep Cocktail Recipe

The mint leaves lend a fragrant and herbaceous quality to the drink, while the bourbon brings depth and warmth. Served in a frosty silver cup, it is the epitome of a summertime sipper.

The Mint Julep has gained acclaim as the official drink of the Kentucky Derby, enchanting race-goers with its timeless appeal. 

Take a moment to muddle the mint, breathe in its invigorating aroma, and savor the crispness of each sip.

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Tom Collins

When it comes to bold citrusy cocktails, the Tom Collins stands tall. This cocktail combines gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water, resulting in a crisp and effervescent drink.

Tom Collins Cocktail glass

The flavors are bright, with the zesty lemon perfectly complementing the botanical notes of the gin. 

Served in a tall glass filled with ice and garnished with a lemon wheel, it is a visually appealing and thirst-quenching choice.

The Tom Collins has long been a popular choice for those seeking a light and alluring cocktail that can be enjoyed year-round. 

Embrace the effervescence and raise your glass to a classic drink that never goes out of style.

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White Lady

The White Lady is an elegant and sophisticated cocktail that combines gin, lemon juice, and triple sec.

The White Lady

Its flavors are crisp and citrus-forward, with a touch of sweetness from the triple sec. Served in a chilled coupe glass, it exudes timeless charm and allure. 

The White Lady has gained a dedicated following among cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate its refined simplicity and the interplay of citrus and botanical notes. 

Let this cocktail be your companion for evenings filled with sophistication and grace, as you sip and savor the harmonious balance of flavors that the White Lady delivers.

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Old Fashioned

As one of the most iconic cocktails in existence, the Old Fashioned is a testament to the beauty of simplicity.

Bourbon Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

Made with bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of orange peel, it is a drink that emphasizes the rich flavors of the whiskey itself. 

Served in a rocks glass with a large ice cube, it exudes a sense of timelessness and nostalgia. The Old Fashioned has remained a beloved choice for those who appreciate the depth and character of a well-crafted whiskey cocktail

With each sip, allow the warmth of the whiskey and the gentle bitterness of the bitters to envelop your senses, reminding you of the enduring allure of classic cocktails.

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Grasshopper

The Grasshopper is a delightful and indulgent cocktail that captures the essence of dessert in a glass.

Frozen Boozy Mint Grasshopper Cocktail with Creme de Cacao

Combining crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and cream, it creates a luscious and creamy drink with a minty chocolate flavor. 

Enjoy it in its chilled magnificence, it showcases a luxurious and velvety texture. The Grasshopper has gained popularity among those with a sweet tooth and a penchant for decadence. 

Indulge your senses and treat yourself to this liquid dessert, allowing the minty freshness and smooth chocolate notes to transport you to a world of pure indulgence.

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Pegu Club

The Pegu Club cocktail hails from the British colonial era, taking its name from the renowned Pegu Club in Rangoon. This sophisticated drink features gin, orange curaçao, lime juice, and a dash of bitters. 

pegu club cocktail decorated with lemon zest

The flavors are citrusy and tangy, with a subtle sweetness from the curaçao. Presented in a chilled coupe glass, it exudes a sense of old-world elegance.

The Pegu Club has gained a devoted following among cocktail aficionados who appreciate its historical significance and the complex interplay of flavors. 

Raise a glass to the bygone era of colonial elegance and let the Pegu Club transport you to a time of refined indulgence.

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Sazerac

As the quintessential cocktail of New Orleans, the Sazerac is a drink steeped in history and flavor. This iconic drink combines rye whiskey, absinthe, sugar, and Peychaud’s bitters, creating a bold and aromatic concoction. 

sazerac

The Sazerac boasts a rich and complex profile, with the spiciness of rye mingling with the herbal notes of absinthe and the subtle sweetness of sugar.

Delivered in a chilled rocks glass coated with a delicate absinthe rinse, it exudes a sense of mystique and allure. 

The Sazerac has become a beloved choice among cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate its deep-rooted heritage and the artistry involved in its preparation.

Immerse yourself in the spirit of New Orleans, let the flavors transport you to the lively streets of the French Quarter, and savor the timeless appeal of the Sazerac.

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Negroni

The Negroni is a cocktail that embodies the perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and herbal flavors.

negroni cocktail recipe

Comprised of equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, it creates a symphony of tastes that dance on the palate. 

Given in a chilled rocks glass with a twist of orange peel, it exudes a classic elegance. The Negroni has captivated cocktail enthusiasts with its bold and distinctive character, appealing to those who appreciate the complexity of bitter cocktails. 

Embrace the allure of this timeless Italian cocktail, and allow the Negroni to transport you to the sun-soaked piazzas of Italy with each exquisite sip.

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Mary Pickford

Named after the iconic silent film actress, the Mary Pickford cocktail is a tropical delight that combines white rum, pineapple juice, grenadine, and a touch of maraschino liqueur.

Fresh cocktail glass on glass table in night club restaurant. Alcohol cocktail drink, close-up. Retro alcoholic beverage

Its flavors are fruity and rich, with the sweetness of pineapple and grenadine complementing the crispness of rum. 

Presented in a chilled coupe glass with a pineapple garnish, it radiates a sense of vintage glamour. The Mary Pickford has gained popularity among those seeking a taste of the tropics and a touch of Hollywood nostalgia. 

Indulge in this charming drink and let it whisk you away to an era of silver screen elegance and sun-kissed beaches.

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Hemingway Daiquiri

The Hemingway Daiquiri, also known as the Papa Doble, pays homage to the literary legend and his love for cocktails.

Boozy Rum Hemingway Daiquiri with LIme and Grapefruit

This cocktail features white rum, lime juice, grapefruit juice, and a hint of maraschino liqueur. 

The flavors are tangy and citrus-forward, with a subtle sweetness and a touch of floral notes. Served in a chilled coupe glass, it captures the spirit of Hemingway’s beloved Cuban cocktails. 

The Hemingway Daiquiri has gained a devoted following among those who seek a aromatic and sophisticated cocktail with a literary twist.

Raise a glass to Hemingway’s literary legacy and immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors that this cocktail has to offer.

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Martinez

The Martinez is a cocktail that predates the classic Martini, showcasing a delightful blend of gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and orange bitters.

Martinez Cocktail With Gin, Vermouth And Orange Peel

Its flavors are complex and aromatic, with the botanicals of the gin intertwining with the richness of vermouth and the subtle sweetness of maraschino. 

Served in a chilled coupe glass with a lemon twist, it radiates an air of sophistication and refinement. The Martinez has regained popularity among cocktail enthusiasts as a precursor to the Martini, appreciated for its balance and depth of flavor. 

Embark on a journey into cocktail history and let the Martinez transport you to a time of refined sipping and classic elegance.

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Southside

The Southside cocktail is a hydrating drink that combines gin, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and mint leaves.

Its flavors are bright and invigorating, with the tanginess of lime complementing the botanical notes of gin, while the mint adds a pleasant and herbaceous twist. 

Offered in a chilled coupe glass or over ice in a Collins glass, it exudes a sense of tropical allure and laid-back elegance.

The Southside has become a beloved choice for those seeking a sophisticated yet approachable cocktail that captures the essence of summer. 

Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a garden party, let the Southside transport you to a world of sun-soaked relaxation and crisp, cool sips.

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Highball

The Highball is a simple yet satisfying cocktail that embraces the beauty of minimalism. It consists of a base spirit, typically whisky or vodka, topped with a generous amount of soda water and served over ice in a tall glass. 

two highball cocktails

The flavors are clean and delightful, allowing the nuances of the base spirit to shine through. The Highball is a versatile drink, with variations ranging from the classic Whisky Highball to the vodka-based Vodka Soda.

Loved for its simplicity and easy-drinking nature, the Highball has become a popular choice for those seeking a no-fuss drink that can be enjoyed in any social setting.

Raise your glass to the beauty of simplicity and let the Highball be your go-to drink for effortless enjoyment.

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Ward 8

The Ward 8 is a cocktail with a vibrant history, originating from Boston during the early 20th century.

Ward Eight Cocktail

This spirited drink combines rye whiskey, lemon juice, orange juice, and grenadine, resulting in a balanced and citrusy concoction. 

The flavors are tangy and slightly sweet, with the warmth of rye complementing the brightness of citrus. Presented in a chilled rocks glass and garnished with a cherry and orange twist, it exudes a sense of nostalgia and celebration. 

The Ward 8 has stood the test of time, loved by those who appreciate its classic charm and the lively character it brings to any occasion.

Let the Ward 8 transport you to the vibrant streets of Boston and raise your glass to the enduring legacy of this historic cocktail.

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sidecar cocktail with lemon peel

25 Best 1920s Cocktail Recipes

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Discover the best 1920s cocktails, from gin fizz to sidecar!

Instructions

  1. Pick your favorite recipe
  2. Gather all the needed ingredients
  3. Prep a tasty cocktail in less than 5 minutes

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Most Popular 1920s Cocktails To Try
Please drink responsibly, be fully accountable with your alcohol consumption, and show others respect.

Written by Paul Kushner

I have always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. My restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time I turned 17 I was serving tables, and by 19 I was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, I opened my first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

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