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15 Must-Try Craft Cocktails

Craft cocktails, the epitome of mixological artistry, are meant to be savored in moments of refined enjoyment.

Vieux Carre cocktail with a large rock and lemon peel

Whether you find yourself perched at a sleek urban bar, mingling with friends at a trendy speakeasy, or relaxing in the comfort of your own home, craft cocktails elevate the drinking experience to new heights. 

With their meticulously crafted recipes, premium spirits, and creative flavor combinations, these drinks are designed to tantalize the taste buds and ignite the senses.

So, whether you’re seeking a sophisticated sip to accompany a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in the art of cocktail craftsmanship, craft cocktails are the perfect choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Paper Plane

The Paper Plane cocktail is a harmonious blend of flavors that will take your taste buds on a delightful journey.

paper plane drink on the bar

This cocktail combines the richness of bourbon, the zing of Amaro Nonino, the brightness of lemon juice, and the sweetness of Aperol

The result is a well-balanced and complex drink that offers a medley of herbal, citrusy, and bitter notes.

Served in a chilled coupe glass and garnished with a twist of lemon, the Paper Plane is a crowd favorite that embodies the art of mixology. 

With its intriguing flavor profile and smooth finish, this cocktail is a must-try for those seeking a unique and memorable drinking experience.

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White Negroni

The White Negroni is a modern twist on the classic Negroni, offering a lighter and more cooling alternative.

White Negroni Cocktail

This cocktail replaces the traditional red vermouth with Lillet Blanc and the Campari with Suze, resulting in a sophisticated blend of botanical flavors. 

Served over ice in a rocks glass and garnished with a lemon twist, the White Negroni is a perfect choice for those who appreciate a well-balanced and slightly bitter drink.

Loved for its complexity and vibrant character, this cocktail showcases the versatility of the Negroni family. 

So, indulge in the allure of the White Negroni and let its elegant flavors transport you to a world of refined enjoyment.

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Aviation

The Aviation cocktail is a timeless classic that captivates with its elegance and allure. 

Aviation Cocktail With Gin

This cocktail combines the floral notes of gin with the subtle sweetness of maraschino liqueur and the tangy tartness of lemon juice

Served in a chilled coupe glass and garnished with a cherry, the Aviation is a visually stunning drink that delights both the eyes and the palate. 

Loved for its delicate balance of flavors and its ability to transport the drinker to the golden age of cocktails, this drink is a must-try for those seeking a taste of vintage sophistication.

So, let the Aviation take flight and elevate your drinking experience to new heights.

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Boulevardier

The Boulevardier cocktail is a bold and robust drink that packs a punch of flavor. 

Boulevardier cocktail recipe

This cocktail features the rich and smoky notes of whiskey, complemented by the bitterness of Campari and the sweetness of sweet vermouth

Served over ice in a rocks glass and garnished with an orange twist, the Boulevardier is a drink for those who appreciate depth and complexity.

Loved for its strong character and its ability to warm the soul, this cocktail is a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts. 

So, take a sip of the Boulevardier and let its complex flavors unfold, leaving you with a sense of satisfaction and sophistication.

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Gold Rush

The Gold Rush cocktail is a delicious and soothing blend that showcases the beauty of bourbon.

Gold Rush Cocktail

This cocktail combines the smoothness of bourbon with the tanginess of freshly squeezed lemon juice and the sweetness of honey syrup. 

Served over ice in a rocks glass and garnished with a lemon wheel, the Gold Rush is a versatile and crowd-pleasing drink that is easy to make and enjoy.

Loved for its balance of flavors and its ability to highlight the nuances of bourbon, this cocktail is a must-have for any whiskey lover

So, savor the golden goodness of the Gold Rush and let its flavors transport you to a place of pure indulgence.

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Whiskey Sour

The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that embodies the perfect marriage of sweet and sour flavors.

Sweet Homemade Whiskey Amarreto Sour Cocktail Recipe with a Cherry

This drink combines the rich and robust character of whiskey with the tanginess of freshly squeezed lemon juice and the sweetness of simple syrup

Served over ice in a rocks glass and garnished with a cherry and an orange slice, the Whiskey Sour is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style.

Loved for its fresh character and its ability to showcase the versatility of whiskey, the Whiskey Sour is a go-to choice for cocktail enthusiasts. 

Its smooth yet tangy profile appeals to a wide range of palates, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

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Oaxaca Old Fashioned

The Oaxaca Old Fashioned is a complex and smoky cocktail that pays homage to the rich flavors of Mexican mezcal. 

Oaxacan Old Fashioned Cocktail Garnish with a orange peel and a sphere ice cube

This variation of the classic Old Fashioned swaps out the traditional whiskey for mezcal, infusing the drink with a delightful hint of earthiness and depth.

Combined with the sweetness of agave nectar and the bitterness of Angostura bitters, this cocktail offers a harmonious balance of flavors.

Served over a large ice cube in a rocks glass and garnished with an orange twist, the Oaxaca Old Fashioned is a sophisticated choice for those seeking a mezcal-infused twist on a beloved classic.

Indulge in the allure of this cocktail and let its complex flavors transport you to the mystique of Oaxaca.

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Penicillin

The Oaxaca Old Fashioned is a smoky and complex cocktail that pays homage to the rich flavors of Mexican mezcal. 

The Penicillin Cocktail

This variation of the classic Old Fashioned swaps out the traditional whiskey for mezcal, infusing the drink with a delightful hint of earthiness and depth.

Combined with the sweetness of agave nectar and the bitterness of Angostura bitters, this cocktail offers a harmonious balance of flavors. 

Served over a large ice cube in a rocks glass and garnished with an orange twist, the Oaxaca Old Fashioned is a sophisticated choice for those seeking a mezcal-infused twist on a beloved classic.

Indulge in the allure of this cocktail and let its complex flavors transport you to the mystique of Oaxaca.

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Sazerac

The Sazerac is a classic New Orleans cocktail that exudes a sense of old-world charm and sophistication.

sazerac

This iconic drink features the smoothness of rye whiskey or Cognac, enhanced by the herbal complexity of absinthe and the sweetness of sugar. 

Served in a chilled glass coated with absinthe and garnished with a lemon twist, the Sazerac is a timeless favorite that transports the drinker to the vibrant streets of the Big Easy.

Loved for its rich history and its ability to capture the essence of New Orleans in a glass, this cocktail is a true testament to the art of mixology. 

Immerse yourself in the allure of the Sazerac and let its timeless flavors whisk you away to a bygone era.

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Vieux Carre

The Vieux Carré cocktail is a tribute to the city of New Orleans, known for its vibrant culture and exceptional cuisine. 

Vieux Carre Cocktail

This drink combines the elegance of Cognac with the spiciness of rye whiskey, balanced by the herbal complexity of sweet vermouth and the bittersweetness of Bénédictine

Served over ice in a rocks glass and garnished with a lemon twist, the Vieux Carré is a sophisticated and nuanced cocktail that captures the spirit of the French Quarter. 

Loved for its layered flavors and its ability to transport the drinker to the heart of New Orleans, this cocktail is a must-try for those seeking a taste of the city’s rich heritage.

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Raspberry Jasmine Green Tea Paloma

The Raspberry Jasmine Green Tea Paloma is a delightful and vibrant cocktail that combines the floral and fruity notes of raspberries with the delicate aroma of jasmine green tea.

Raspberry Jasmine Green Tea Paloma
source: moodymixologist.com

This drink adds a twist to the classic Paloma by incorporating the flavors of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, tangy lime juice, and a hint of sweetness from agave syrup. 

Served over ice in a highball glass and garnished with a sprig of fresh mint, the Raspberry Jasmine Green Tea Paloma is a delightful choice for those seeking a light and flavorful sip. 

Loved for its unique combination of ingredients and its ability to transport you to a sun-kissed garden, this cocktail is a must-have for any cocktail aficionado.

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Cactus Flower

The Cactus Flower cocktail is a invigorating and exotic drink that captures the essence of the desert with its vibrant flavors.

Cactus Flower
source: moodymixologist.com

This cocktail combines the tangy sweetness of prickly pear juice with the zesty kick of lime juice and the herbal notes of agave syrup. 

Served over ice in a salt-rimmed glass and garnished with a slice of lime and a prickly pear wedge, the Cactus Flower is a visually striking and tantalizing drink. 

Loved for its unique flavor profile and its ability to transport you to a sun-soaked desert oasis, this cocktail is a must-try for those seeking a taste of adventure and a brisk escape from the ordinary.

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Limoncello Reviver Cocktail

The Limoncello Reviver Cocktail is a bright and invigorating drink that showcases the vibrant flavors of Italy.

Limoncello Reviver Cocktail
source: moodymixologist.com

This cocktail combines the zesty citrus punch of limoncello liqueur with the herbal complexity of Lillet Blanc and the crispness of sparkling water

Served in a chilled flute glass and garnished with a twist of lemon, the Limoncello Reviver Cocktail is a perfect choice for those who enjoy a light and fizzy drink. 

Loved for its refreshing qualities and its ability to awaken the senses, this cocktail is a delightful companion for sunny afternoons and joyful gatherings.

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Strawberry Cucumber Tequila Martini

The Strawberry Cucumber Tequila Martini is a fresh and summery cocktail that delights with its vibrant flavors.

Strawberry Cucumber Tequila Martini
source: kitchenswagger.com

This drink combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the crispness of cucumber, all enhanced by the smoothness of tequila

Served in a chilled martini glass and garnished with a strawberry slice and a cucumber ribbon, the Strawberry Cucumber Tequila Martini is a visually appealing and aromatic drink. 

Loved for its combination of fruity and herbal notes, as well as its ability to bring a touch of sophistication to any occasion, this cocktail is a must-have for those seeking a taste of summer in a glass.

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Fairy Godmother Absinthe Cocktail

The Fairy Godmother Absinthe Cocktail is a whimsical and enchanting drink that pays homage to the mythical spirit of absinthe.

Fairy Godmother Absinthe Cocktail
source: moodymixologist.com

This cocktail combines the herbal complexity of absinthe with the floral and citrusy notes of elderflower liqueur and the tanginess of freshly squeezed lemon juice. 

Served over ice in a rocks glass and garnished with a sprig of fresh mint, the Fairy Godmother Absinthe Cocktail is a visually captivating and aromatic drink. 

Loved for its unique and mystical character, as well as its ability to transport you to a world of fantasy, this cocktail is a must-try for those seeking a magical drinking experience.

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Vieux Carre cocktail with a large rock and lemon peel

15 Craft Cocktail Recipes

Yield: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

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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15 Must-Try Craft Cocktails
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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