Best alcohols for mixing: Classic Combinations That Always Work
The world of alcoholic beverages is vast, with a seemingly endless variety of options to choose from. When it comes to mixing drinks, the choices can be overwhelming. However, there are classic combinations that have stood the test of time and are always a hit. In this article, we’ll explore the best alcohols to mix and the classic combinations you can’t go wrong with.
Essential Alcohols to Stock Up On
Before we dive into the best mixes and cocktails, it’s important to know the basic alcohols you should have in your home bar. These alcohols serve as the foundation for many classic drinks and offer a wide range of mixing possibilities. Here are the essential alcohols to stock up on:
Wodka
Vodka is a versatile and widely used alcohol for mixing drinks. Its neutral taste allows it to blend well with various ingredients, making it a staple in any home bar. When choosing vodka, you have options ranging from cheaper bottles to top-of-the-line brands. The quality of vodka you choose will depend on your preferences and budget. If you’re making cocktails with strong flavors or tall drinks that require a significant amount of vodka, a mid-range option would be appropriate. However, if you’re focusing on vodka-centric cocktails like a vodka martini, investing in a higher quality vodka is recommended. Flavored vodkas, such as strawberry or citrus, can add an extra dimension to certain cocktails, but it’s best to start with plain vodka.
Rum
Rum is a versatile alcohol that adds a tropical flair to cocktails. It is worth having both light and dark rum in your bar. Light rum is often used in refreshing drinks such as mojitos and daiquiris, providing a tropical flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. On the other hand, dark rum, spiced rum, or aged rum are ideal for tropical cocktails that require a richer and more complex flavor profile.
Tequila
Tequila brings a semi-sweet and earthy flavor to cocktails and is a must-have for any home bar. Given its potency, a small amount of tequila goes a long way. Investing in a good quality tequila is recommended to fully enjoy the flavors of tequila-based drinks. You can opt for golden or silver tequila, but if you have to choose between the two, silver tequila is a versatile option.
Gin
Gin is a unique alcohol that may not appeal to everyone due to its distinct flavor. However, having a bottle of Gin in your inventory expands the possibilities of the drinks you can create. Dry gin is a great starting point, as it can be used to make refreshing gin and tonics, classic dry martinis, and a variety of other options. There are numerous types of gin available, each infused with different botanicals and flavors, allowing for experimentation once you’re comfortable making cocktails at home.
Whiskey
Choosing a whiskey for your home bar can be daunting, especially if you’re not a regular whiskey drinker. Different types of whiskey have unique characteristics that lend themselves to different uses. Bourbon is a popular choice for its robust flavor and versatility in different mixes and cocktails. If you prefer a smoother option, Canadian Blend Whiskey is a good alternative. Rye whiskey adds a spicy flavor and is perfect for classic cocktails. Blended Scotch and Irish whiskey, while not as versatile, can be added to your collection once you’ve stocked up on other essential alcohols.
Brandy
While not as widely used as other alcohols, brandy can be a valuable addition to your home bar. It adds a touch of elegance to classic cocktails and serves as a great finishing touch. To enhance the flavors of brandy-based drinks, it is recommended to choose a high-quality brandy.
The best alcohol blends for classic cocktails
Now that you have a good understanding of the essential alcohols to stock up on, let’s explore some classic combinations that are always a hit. Here are the best mixes and cocktails for each essential alcohol:
Vodka
Vodka is incredibly versatile and can be combined with a variety of flavors to create delicious cocktails. Here are two classic vodka mixes:
- Cosmopolitan: A Cosmopolitan is a popular vodka mix made with 1 ounce of vodka, lime juice, triple sec, cranberry juice and ice. These ingredients are mixed together and strained into a cocktail glass, resulting in a refreshing and fruity drink.
- Vodka Martini: A vodka martini is a simple yet sophisticated drink. To make a vodka martini, combine 1 ounce of vodka, 1 ounce of dry vermouth, and a few drops of bitters. Garnish with a lemon or olive twist and serve in a chilled martini glass for an elegant presentation.
Rum
Rum’s versatility makes it a favorite for creating tropical and refreshing cocktails. Here are two classic rum mixes:
- Mojito: A classic Cuban cocktail, the Mojito combines rum, lime juice, simple syrup, mint leaves and soda water. Muddle mint leaves with lime juice and simple syrup in a glass, add rum and ice, and top with soda water. Stir gently and garnish with a mint sprig for a delicious and minty cocktail.
- Piña Colada: The Piña Colada is a popular rum-based cocktail that transports you to a tropical paradise. Stir 2 ounces of rum, pineapple juice, coconut cream and ice until smooth. Pour into a glass and garnish with a pineapple slice and a maraschino cherry for a taste of the tropics.
Tequila
Tequila brings a unique and bold flavor to cocktails, especially those with a hint of citrus. Here are two classic tequila mixes:
- Margarita: The Margarita is a classic tequila cocktail that combines tequila, lime juice, and triple sec. Rim a glass with salt, shake the ingredients with ice, and strain into a glass. Garnish with a lime wedge for a zesty and refreshing drink.
- Tequila Sunrise: The Tequila Sunrise is a visually stunning cocktail that combines tequila, orange juice, and grenadine. Fill a glass with ice, add the tequila and orange juice, and slowly pour the grenadine down the side of the glass. The grenadine will sink to the bottom, creating a beautiful sunrise effect.
Gin
Gin’s distinctive flavor profile lends itself well to a variety of classic cocktails. Here are two classic gin mixes:
- Gin and Tonic: The Gin and Tonic is a timeless and refreshing cocktail. Fill a glass with ice, add 2 ounces of gin and top with tonic water. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge for a crisp and sparkling drink.
- Tom Collins: The Tom Collins is a classic gin cocktail that combines gin, lemon juice, simple syrup and club soda. Shake the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, strain into a glass filled with ice, and top with club soda. Garnish with a slice of lemon for a thirst-quenching and citrusy cocktail.
Rye Whiskey
Whiskey adds warmth and complexity to cocktails, making it a favorite among whiskey aficionados. Here are two classic whiskey mixes:
- Old Fashioned: The Old Fashioned is a timeless whiskey cocktail that combines whiskey, sugar, bitters and a hint of citrus. Muddle a sugar cube with bitters and a splash of water in a glass. Add whiskey and ice, stir gently, and garnish with an orange twist for a sophisticated and flavorful drink.
- Whiskey Sour: The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that balances the richness of whiskey with the tartness of lemon juice and the sweetness of simple syrup. Shake 2 ounces whiskey, ¾ ounce lemon juice, and ¾ ounce simple syrup with ice. Strain into a glass filled with ice and garnish with a cherry and a slice of lemon for a tangy and refreshing drink.
Brandy
Brandy adds elegance and depth to classic cocktails. Here are two classic brandy mixes:
- The Sidecar: The Sidecar is a classic brandy cocktail that combines brandy, orange liqueur, and lemon juice. Shake 2 ounces brandy, ¾ ounce orange liqueur, and ¾ ounce lemon juice with ice. Strain into a glass and garnish with an orange twist for a sophisticated and citrusy drink.
- Brandy Alexander: The Brandy Alexander is a creamy and indulgent cocktail made with brandy, cream, and crème de cacao. Shake 2 ounces of brandy, 1 ounce of cream, and 1 ounce of crème de cacao with ice. Strain into a glass and garnish with a dusting of nutmeg for a rich and velvety treat.
Bottom Line
Stocking your home bar with a selection of essential alcohols opens up a world of possibilities for mixing classic cocktails. Vodka, rum, tequila, gin, whiskey, and brandy are all versatile alcohols that can be combined with a variety of ingredients to create delicious and timeless drinks. Whether you prefer a crisp and refreshing Mojito, a tangy Margarita, or a sophisticated Old Fashioned, these classic combinations are sure to impress. So gather up your favorite alcohols, experiment with different mixes, and hone your home bartending skills with these timeless classics. Cheers!
FAQS
What are the essential alcohols to stock up on for mixing drinks?
The essential alcohols to stock up on for mixing drinks include vodka, rum, tequila, gin, whiskey, and brandy. These alcohols offer versatility and serve as the foundation for a wide range of classic cocktails.
What makes vodka a good choice for mixing drinks?
Vodka’s neutral flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for mixing drinks. It blends easily with different ingredients without overpowering them, allowing the other flavors to shine. Vodka is a versatile alcohol that can be used in both fruity and spicy cocktails.
Why is rum a popular choice for tropical cocktails?
Rum’s natural sweetness and tropical undertones make it a popular choice for tropical cocktails. Light rum is often used in refreshing drinks such as mojitos and daiquiris, while dark or spiced rum adds richness and complexity to tropical mixes.
What makes tequila unique for cocktail mixing?
Tequila brings a distinctly semi-sweet and earthy flavor to cocktails. Its strength allows a little to go a long way, and it pairs exceptionally well with citrus flavors. Tequila is a key ingredient in classics like margaritas and adds a lively kick to any mixed drink.
Why is gin a favorite in classic cocktails?
Gin’s unique botanical flavor profile makes it a favorite in classic cocktails. Its herbal and juniper notes add depth and complexity to drinks such as gin and tonics or dry martinis. Gin offers a wide range of options with different types and flavors to suit different tastes.
What is the role of whiskey in mixing drinks?
Whiskey adds warmth and richness to cocktails, making it a popular choice for mixing drinks. Different types of whiskey, such as bourbon, rye or scotch, bring their own distinct flavors and characteristics to cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Whiskey Sours. Whiskey is a versatile alcohol that can be enjoyed in a variety of mixed drinks.