18 Most Popular 1930s Cocktails to Try

The Old Fashioned, a beloved classic, tantalizes the palate with its timeless blend of flavors. Crafted with a hint of sugar, a generous pour of smooth bourbon, a dash of Angostura bitters, and a splash of water, this cocktail embodies simplicity and sophistication. Served over ice and garnished with an enticing twist of orange peel and a luscious brandied cherry, it delivers a harmonious balance of sweetness, warmth, and gentle bitterness. Sip slowly to savor the intricate layers of flavor that unfold with each indulgent sip. The Old Fashioned rich history and refined taste make it a cherished choice for discerning drinkers.

Indulge in the enigmatic allure of the Death in the Afternoon cocktail, a mesmerizing blend of absinthe and chilled Champagne. The intense herbal notes of absinthe intertwine with the fizz of champagne, creating a captivating contrast of flavors. With each sip, the floral and anise undertones dance on the palate, delivering a unique sensory experience. Raise a glass, garnished with a delicate rose petal or a vibrant lemon twist, and let Death in the Afternoon take you on a journey like no other.

The Salty Dog cocktail tantalizes the taste buds with its delightful blend of gin or vodka and zesty grapefruit juice. The sharp, citrusy flavors of the grapefruit complement the spirit, creating a refreshing and invigorating experience. Served in a glass with a salt-rimmed edge and garnished with a slice of grapefruit, this drink exudes a perfect balance of tanginess and a subtle hint of salinity. Originating in the United States, this cocktail gained popularity in the mid-20th century and continues to be a beloved choice for those seeking a vibrant and tangy drink. Embark on a journey of citrusy bliss with the Salty Dog cocktail!

The Brown Derby cocktail effortlessly marries the robust flavors of bourbon with the tang of fresh grapefruit juice and the subtle sweetness of honey syrup. Simple to serve, this cocktail is accessible to all. Just mix the ingredients, strain into a glass, and garnish with a twist of grapefruit peel. The Brown Derby caters to a wide range of palates, appealing to both bourbon enthusiasts and those seeking a balanced and citrusy drink. Sip and savor its harmonious blend, allowing the flavors to unfold on the tongue. Enjoy this versatile drink as a pre-dinner aperitif or a delightful companion to a relaxed evening. Cheers to the delightful simplicity of the Brown Derby!

Indulge in the tropical allure of the Mai Tai cocktail, where aged rum and Rhum Agricole unite to deliver a rich and complex base. Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a zesty tang, while orange curacao contributes a hint of citrus sweetness. Almond sugar syrup and simple syrup bring a delightful balance of flavors, complemented by the chill of ice. Garnished with a mint sprig, this cocktail offers a harmonious fusion of tropical notes, citrus brightness, and a subtle sweetness that dances on the palate. Whether enjoyed poolside or at a lively gathering, the Mai Tai transports drinkers to an island paradise with each sip.

Revive your spirits with the tantalizing Corpse Reviver #2 cocktail, where gin takes the lead, accompanied by the delicate flavors of Lillet Blanc and Cointreau. A splash of zesty lemon juice adds a citrusy tang, while a hint of absinthe contributes an intriguing herbal note. Garnished with an orange peel, this drink boasts a stimulating and harmonious blend of flavors that dance on the palate. Originally intended as a hangover cure, it has transcended its curative origins and become a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. Sip on Corpse Reviver #2 and let its vibrant flavors breathe new life into your senses. 

The Cape Codder cocktail is a simple yet refreshing blend of vodka and cranberry juice. The vodka provides a clean and neutral base, while the tartness of the cranberry juice adds a vibrant and fruity flavor profile to the mix. Commonly served in a highball or Collins glass, the Cape Codder offers a crisp and thirst-quenching experience. With each sip, you’ll be greeted by the invigorating combination of the smooth vodka and the tangy sweetness of the cranberry juice, leaving you with a refreshing and revitalizing sensation.

The Last Word cocktail is a harmonious symphony of flavors, combining gin, maraschino liqueur, green Chartreuse, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Its taste profile is a perfect balance of herbal, sweet, and tart notes. Sipping on this cocktail is a delight for the senses, as the vibrant lime juice melds seamlessly with the complex botanicals of the gin, while the maraschino liqueur and Chartreuse add depth and a hint of sweetness. The brandied cherry garnish offers a luscious finishing touch. Its intricate combination of ingredients makes it a drink favorite, as it showcases the artistry and versatility of mixology and provides a truly memorable and unique drinking experience.

The Bee’s Knees cocktail buzzes with delightful flavors thanks to the perfect combination of gin, honey syrup, and lemon juice. The gin provides a smooth and botanical foundation, while the honey syrup adds a touch of sweetness and depth. The tangy lemon juice provides a citrus kick, perfectly balancing the drink. Garnished with a twist of lemon, the Bee’s Knees is a vibrant and invigorating drink that will leave you buzzing with delight. Indulge in the Bee’s Knees and let its irresistible charm sweep you off your feet. Raise a glass and toast to the perfect marriage of flavors. Cheers to the Bee’s Knees!

The Mary Pickford cocktail is a delightful blend of white rum, pineapple juice, grenadine, and maraschino liqueur. This combination offers a tropical and fruity flavor profile with a touch of sweetness and a hint of cherry. Originating in Havana, Cuba, the cocktail was named after the famous American actress Mary Pickford and gained popularity during the Prohibition era. Its vibrant and refreshing taste, reminiscent of a tropical getaway, contributed to its rise in popularity and continues to make it a beloved choice for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a taste of Havana’s golden age. Sip on the Mary Pickford and transport yourself to a bygone era of glamor and exotic flavors.

Indulge in the delightful Ward Eight cocktail, where the boldness of rye whiskey meets the tanginess of lemon juice and the vibrant sweetness of orange juice. The grenadine adds a touch of richness and a hint of fruitiness to this harmonious blend. Each ingredient comes together to create a balanced flavor profile, with the whiskey’s warmth complemented by the citrusy brightness and the subtle sweetness of the grenadine. Over the years, this drink has gained popularity for its complex yet approachable taste, making it a favorite choice among whiskey enthusiasts and cocktail connoisseurs alike. With its vibrant flavors and rich history, the Ward Eight is a testament to the timeless allure of classic cocktails.

Elevate your celebrations with the exquisite French 75 cocktail, a sparkling blend of Champagne, gin, zesty lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness from simple syrup. This drink offers a delightful combination of flavors, where the fizz of Champagne mingles harmoniously with the botanical notes of gin, while the citrusy tang of lemon juice adds a delightful twist. Garnished with a lemon twist, it exudes elegance and sophistication. The French 75 is a versatile cocktail that suits a variety of occasions, whether it’s a glamorous evening soiree, a joyful toast at a wedding, or a festive gathering with friends. Raise a glass of the French 75 and let its effervescent charm transport you to a world of timeless sophistication and merriment. Cheers to the enchanting allure of this beloved cocktail!

The Hemingway Daiquiri cocktail combines the vibrant flavors of lime juice, grapefruit juice, white rum, and maraschino liqueur, resulting in a citrusy and stimulating drink that offers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy notes. Commonly served in a chilled cocktail glass, sipping on the Hemingway Daiquiri is an invigorating experience. You’ll be treated to a zesty burst of lime and grapefruit flavors, complemented by the smoothness of the rum and the subtle floral undertones of the maraschino liqueur. It’s a perfect blend of tropical vibes and refined taste. This cocktail is ideal for a summer gathering or a leisurely afternoon, offering a taste of escapism and relaxation. 

The Vieux Carré cocktail is a harmonious blend of rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, Bénédictine, and a dash of both Angostura and Peychaud’s bitters. Each ingredient contributes to the complexity of the drink, with the rye whiskey and cognac providing a robust and rich foundation, the sweet vermouth adding depth and balance, the Bénédictine infusing a subtle herbal sweetness, and the bitters enhancing the overall flavor profile with their aromatic notes. Immerse yourself in the allure of the Vieux Carré and experience a taste of New Orleans sophistication. Cheers to the timeless charm of the Vieux Carré!