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25 Most Popular 1920s Cocktails to Try

Step back in time to the roaring 1920s, an era of glitz, glamour, and clandestine speakeasies, where cocktails weren’t just drinks, but statements of style and rebellion. The 1920s cocktail scene was all about classic concoctions like the Old Fashioned, Sidecar, and the timeless Martini, each with its own fascinating history and allure.

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Whether you’re hosting a themed party or just want to indulge in a taste of vintage sophistication, these recipes are sure to transport you to a time when every sip was an adventure. Cheers to the good old days!

Aviation

Aviation Cocktail With Gin

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. 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.


Bee’s Knees

Bee's Knees Cocktail Recipe

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. 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.


Clover Club

summer clover club in window

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


Sidecar

Sidecar cocktail

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. 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.


French 75

french 75 cocktail on a bar

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


Corpse Reviver

corpse reviver no. 2 cocktail with bottles of ingredients in the background

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. 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.


Last Word

Last Word Cocktail

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. 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. 


Gin Rickey

gin rickey cocktail with lime

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. 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.


Blood and Sand

Homemade Smokey Blood and Sand Cocktail with Orange Juice and Scotch

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


Boulevardier

a glass of boulevardier cocktail

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


Hanky Panky

Boozy Classic Hanky Panky Cocktail with Gin and an Orange Garnish

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


Mint Julep

Mint Julep Cocktail Recipe

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. 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.


Tom Collins

Tom Collins Cocktail glass

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. 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.


White Lady

The White Lady

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


Old Fashioned

Bourbon Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

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


Grasshopper

Frozen Boozy Mint Grasshopper Cocktail with Creme de Cacao

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


Pegu Club

pegu club cocktail decorated with lemon zest

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. 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.


Sazerac

a glass of Sazerac cocktail with ingredients as background

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. 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.


Negroni

orange negroni cocktail on countertop

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


Mary Pickford

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

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. 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.


Hemingway Daiquiri

Boozy Rum Hemingway Daiquiri with LIme and Grapefruit

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


Martinez

Martinez Cocktail With Gin, Vermouth And Orange Peel

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


Southside

South Side Cocktail

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.


Highball

two highball cocktails

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. 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.


Ward 8

Ward Eight Cocktail

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


Save Recipe Form

A classic Negroni cocktail served in an old-fashioned glass, symbolizing the drink's rich history and simplicity. The Negroni should have a deep red-orange color, a signature trait from the mix of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. A twist of orange peel or a thin orange slice should elegantly garnish the drink, complementing its bitter-sweet flavor profile. The setting should be sophisticated and timeless, with the glass placed on a refined, dark wood bar top. The background should be softly blurred, drawing the viewer's focus to the cocktail. Warm, ambient lighting should bathe the drink in a soft glow, accentuating the deep colors and the transparent, rich texture of the Negroni.

25 Best 1920s Cocktail Recipes

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
4.7 from 3 votes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: 1920s cocktails
Servings: 1
Author: Paul Kushner
Step back in time to the roaring 1920s with our guide to iconic cocktails of the era.

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25 Most Popular 1920s Cocktails to Try
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4.67 from 3 votes (3 ratings without comment)

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Paul Kushner

Written by Paul Kushner

Founder and CEO of MyBartender. Graduated from Penn State University. He always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. His restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time he turned 17 he was serving tables, and by 19 he was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, Paul opened his 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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