How to Make 4 Classic Cocktails Every Host Should Know

As a host, having a few classic cocktail recipes up your sleeve can really take your gatherings to the next level. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to make four classic cocktails that are sure to impress your guests.

The Martini

The martini is a classic, sophisticated cocktail that everyone should know how to make. Here's a simple recipe:

• 2 oz Gin or Vodka
• 1/2 oz Dry Vermouth
• Lemon twist or olive for garnish

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour the gin/vodka and vermouth over the ice.
3. Stir for 30 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or olive.

The Margarita

The margarita is a refreshing, citrusy cocktail perfect for any occasion. Here's how to make it:

• 2 oz Tequila
• 1 oz Fresh lime juice
• 1 oz Triple sec
• Salt for the rim
• Lime wheel for garnish

1. Rim a glass with salt.
2. Shake the tequila, lime juice, and triple sec with ice.
3. Strain into the glass.
4. Garnish with a lime wheel.

The Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a strong, sweet, and spicy cocktail that's always a hit. Here's the recipe:

• 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
• 1 Sugar cube
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange twist for garnish

1. Muddle the sugar cube and bitters in an old-fashioned glass.
2. Add the whiskey and a few ice cubes.
3. Stir until chilled.
4. Garnish with an orange twist.

The Mojito

The mojito is a minty, refreshing cocktail that's perfect for warm weather. Here's how to make it:

• 2 oz White rum
• 1 oz Fresh lime juice
• 2 tsp Sugar
• 6 Fresh mint leaves
• Soda water
• Mint sprig for garnish

1. Muddle the mint leaves and sugar in a glass.
2. Add the rum and lime juice.
3. Fill the glass with ice and top with soda water.
4. Stir gently and garnish with a mint sprig.

Remember, the key to a great cocktail is high-quality ingredients and precise measurements.