Recipes 363

Campari has made a lasting impression in the cocktail world for over 150 years, beginning in the vibrant cafes of 1860s Milan. This bitter liqueur, with its iconic crimson hue originally derived from crushed insects, has shaped the aperitivo culture, marking various classic cocktails like the Negroni, Americano, and Garibaldi. Over the years, it has transformed into a global empire, contributing significantly to the cocktail scene, including a series of innovative recipes that enhance its flavor profile.

Here are 14 notable Campari cocktails, showcasing expert recipes that you can try at home or enjoy when dining out.

1. Negroni

• Ingredients:
  • 1 oz gin
  • 1 oz Campari
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
• Directions: Mix ingredients with ice and strain into an ice-filled glass. Garnish with an orange twist.

2. Café Negroni

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz coffee liqueur
  • 1 oz Campari
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • Orange peel
• Directions: Stir all the ingredients with ice and strain into a rocks glass over ice. Garnish with orange peel.

3. Boulevardier

• Ingredients:
  • 1 oz rye whiskey
  • 1 oz Campari
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
• Directions: Combine all ingredients with ice, stir, and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

4. Suy tu Duena Cocktail

• Ingredients:
  • 1 oz Sotol
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • 0.75 oz Campari
  • 0.25 oz Primo Aperitivo
  • 3 dashes grapefruit bitters
  • 0.75 oz melted coconut oil
• Directions: Mix and stir all ingredients, then double-strain into a glass.

5. La Esquina Roja

• Ingredients:
  • 1 oz gin
  • 0.5 oz lime juice
  • 0.5 oz raspberry syrup
  • 0.25 oz Primo Aperitivo
  • 0.25 oz Campari
  • Sparkling wine
  • Grapefruit peel
• Directions: Shake all ingredients except sparkling wine. Pour into a glass filled with ice and top with sparkling wine. Garnish with grapefruit zest.

6. The Jungle Fowl

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz Plantation Stiggins Fancy Pineapple Rum
  • 0.5 oz Ming River Baijiu
  • 0.75 oz Campari
  • 1 oz pineapple juice
  • 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
  • 0.5 oz El Guapo Orgeat
  • 0.25 oz Cherry Heering
  • 0.25 oz Demerara Syrup
  • 4 dashes MSG saline solution
• Directions: Combine ingredients in a shaker, shake vigorously, and serve in a Hurricane glass with tiki garnishes.

7. San Remo Cocktail

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz sweet vermouth
  • 1 oz St. Germain
  • 1 oz orange juice
  • 1 oz Campari
  • 0.5 oz bourbon
  • Juice of 0.5 lime
  • Orange twist for garnish
• Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a rocks glass. Garnish with an orange twist.

8. Bitter French

• Ingredients:
  • 1 oz Plymouth gin
  • 0.25 oz Campari
  • 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup
  • Sparkling wine
• Directions: Shake gin, lemon juice, Campari, and simple syrup. Strain into a chilled flute and top with sparkling wine.

9. Americano

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz Campari
  • 1.5 oz sweet vermouth
  • Chilled soda water
  • Orange twist for garnish
• Directions: Mix Campari and vermouth over ice, top with soda water, and garnish.

10. Garibaldi

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz Campari
  • 4 oz fresh orange juice
• Directions: Combine Campari with orange juice in a glass over ice and stir gently.

11. Campari Spritz

• Ingredients:
  • 3 oz dry Prosecco
  • 2 oz Campari
  • 1 oz club soda
  • Orange slice for garnish
• Directions: Pour Campari into an ice-filled glass, add Prosecco and soda, and garnish.

12. Milanese Gin and Tonic

• Ingredients:
  • 1 oz London dry gin
  • 1 oz Campari
  • 4 oz tonic water
  • Orange slice for garnish
• Directions: Mix gin, Campari, and tonic in a glass with ice. Garnish with an orange slice.

13. Pegu Club 1880

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz London dry gin
  • 0.75 oz Campari
  • 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
  • Dash of Angostura bitters
  • Dash of orange bitters
  • Lime wedge for garnish
• Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a cocktail glass, and garnish with lime.

14. Campari Cosmo

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz citrus vodka
  • 1 oz Campari
  • 1 splash triple sec
  • 1 oz orange juice
  • Orange slice for garnish
• Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish and serve cold.

These drinks highlight Campari’s versatility and unique bitter-sweet flavor, perfect for any occasion from a casual summer evening to an elegant dinner party.

One Sunday morning last October, Scott Gibbins was taken aback when he opened Facebook to find photos of a local park littered with debris left by a large gathering of youths the night before. Seeing the aftermath prompted him and fellow volunteers from the South Leicestershire Litter Wombles to take action. Gibbins, who has a reputation for his litter cleaning efforts, noted that he collected an astounding 1,600 bags of trash in 2025 alone.

On that fateful day, alongside discarded energy drink cans, Gibbins encountered approximately 700 nitrous oxide canisters, commonly used for their fleeting highs. Among the waste, he was also met with unfamiliar items—small, round containers that at first glance seemed to contain juice. Upon closer inspection, these turned out to be BuzzBallz, ready-to-drink cocktails that are rapidly becoming a staple for Gen Z party-goers. Unfortunately, their unique combination of plastic and aluminum also presents recycling challenges.

BuzzBallz, created by Texas schoolteacher Merrilee Kick, is now recognized as the fastest-growing alcohol brand in the UK, with almost 1,000% sales growth in the last year. These 200ml cocktails pack 13.5% alcohol by volume and come in various flavors, making them popular for their vibrant branding that emphasizes that "Life’s too short for boring drinks."

The rise of BuzzBallz is reflective of a broader shift in drinking habits over the last decade, moving from traditional cocktails served in bars to convenience-oriented, pre-mixed options that can be found at music festivals and supermarkets alike. This trend is observed not just among youths but across various demographics, signaling a growing acceptance and popularity of ready-to-drink cocktails.

Despite some criticism of this canned cocktail trend as being a youth-driven approach to drinking, evidence shows that these beverages are contributing positively to the broader alcohol market that has faced challenges post-pandemic. Sales in this category are booming while other segments, such as beer and wine, are seeing declines.

Retailers like Tesco have reported that the RTD (ready-to-drink) segment has doubled in size over recent months, driven by factors such as affordability during the cost of living crisis and a desire among consumers for novelty. BuzzBallz and others like Moth are leading within this category, with Moth co-founder Rob Wallis noting a shift away from subdued drinking habits and a ready desire for unique cocktail experiences.

Established retailers have adapted too—Marks & Spencer, for example, pioneered the introduction of gin in cans and reports that its Hugo Spritz has emerged as a runaway bestseller, demonstrating consumers’ eagerness for new cocktail flavor options.

Overall, despite some skepticism from bartenders and cocktail purists, the uptake of quality canned cocktails indicates a market expanding towards convenience without sacrificing taste. With RTDs evolving beyond simple mixes to include complex cocktail profiles, they offer a middle ground that appeals to both casual drinkers and aficionados. As the market continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: today’s consumers are keen to indulge in unique, flavorful drinks that fit seamlessly into their diverse lifestyles.

Home bartenders enjoy crafting complex cocktails, but these intricate drinks can sometimes be labor-intensive and costly to prepare. However, there’s a simpler approach that can elevate your cocktail game without the need for a fully stocked bar: two-ingredient cocktails.

These drinks are not just easier to make, but they can also be just as delicious (if not more) than their elaborate counterparts. By focusing on a handful of simple recipes, you can highlight essential flavors while saving time and money. Each two-ingredient cocktail can consist of an alcohol and a mixer, with optional garnishes for flair.

Here are some standout options to inspire your next gathering:

Gin and Tonic

A classic combination, the gin and tonic is a crowd-pleaser. Different gins offer unique flavors, which the tonic enhances without overshadowing. For a delightful finish, consider garnishing with a sprig of rosemary or a wheel of lemon.

Mango Mimosa

To jazz up your brunch, swap traditional orange juice for mango nectar in your mimosa. Pair it with sparkling wine like Champagne or Prosecco, and add fresh fruit slices for a colorful presentation.

Cuba Libre

This simple drink translates to "Free Cuba" and consists of rum and Coca-Cola, often garnished with lime. For an added flavor boost, consider including a sprig of mint.

Rusty Nail

Made from equal parts scotch and Drambuie, the Rusty Nail offers a sweet and smoky experience. Garnish with a twist of lemon for an extra layer of taste.

Bellini

A refreshing choice similar to the mimosa, the Bellini features Prosecco combined with peach puree. It’s an excellent option for warm weather gatherings and can be adorned with seasonal fruits.

Screwdriver

Combining vodka and orange juice, the Screwdriver is a go-to choice for easy mixing. You can prepare it in batches or let guests serve themselves for added convenience.

Greyhound

Swap orange juice in a Screwdriver for grapefruit juice to create a Greyhound cocktail. A garnish of grapefruit or lime adds both flavor and aesthetics.

Dark ‘n Stormy

This trademarked cocktail requires Goslings Black Seal rum and ginger beer, complemented by a lime garnish to balance the spices of the ginger beer with acidity.

Godfather

With blended Scotch whisky and amaretto liqueur, this cocktail delights with its sweet and smoky notes. Adjust the amaretto to suit your palate or serve straight up with an orange twist.

Black Russian

A combination of vodka and coffee liqueur, the Black Russian serves up a caffeine-infused treat. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a slight kick.

Añejo Soda

Using añejo tequila, this drink becomes special when mixed with soda water. Optionally, add an orange wedge for garnishing.

Red Wine Spritzer

Combine red wine with club soda for a refreshing summer drink. Garnishing with an orange wedge adds a pop of color and flavor.

Martini

This iconic cocktail consists of gin and vermouth, garnished with olives. Adjust the vermouth based on your preference for a dry or wet martini.

These straightforward cocktails pack flavor without requiring excessive effort or ingredients. They allow you to enjoy the essence of each drink while keeping your home bartending fresh and fun.

If you’re looking for something refreshing to enjoy poolside or at a summer gathering, a variety of summer cocktails can be the perfect solution. With options ranging from fruity frozen drinks to classic margaritas and tropical tiki cocktails, there’s something for every occasion.

Long summer days often lead to day-long sipping, so consider lower ABV cocktails to keep the fun going without risking exhaustion. Adding seltzer to cocktails can also provide extra bubbles while keeping you hydrated. For those hosting summer parties, remember to include non-alcoholic beverage options like mocktails, lemonade, and iced tea.

Here are a few standout cocktails to try this summer:

1. Frozen Hugo Spritz – A frozen take on a classic that adds a refreshing twist.
2. Blackberry Margaritas – This delightful concoction features blackberry syrup for a sweet, fruity flavor.
3. Cowboy Colada – Pairing whiskey with pineapple juice and jalapeño for a unique summer drink.
4. Dole Whip Margaritas – A slushy mix of frozen pineapple, coconut milk, and lime juice, promising to be a summer favorite.
5. Guava Mojito – An upgraded mojito incorporating sweet guava, mint, and lime.
6. Blackberry Paloma – A vibrant blend that combines the classic salty rim with tequila, lime, and fresh blackberries.
7. Dirty Margarita – A fun twist that adds olive brine to the mix for a sweeter taste.
8. Mango Margarita – A fruity and creamy blend that balances sweetness and tang.
9. Cucumber-Melon Mojito – Refreshing flavors come together in this easy-to-personalize classic.
10. Naked & Famous – A mezcal-driven cocktail that is smoky, citrusy, and vibrant.

Experimenting with these recipes will undoubtedly enhance your summer festivities. Cheers to a season of delicious cocktails!

At first glance, Smashes and Brambles appear quite similar—both are invigorating, fruit-forward cocktails that typically feature crushed ice and citrus, garnished with fresh elements. However, a key distinction exists between the two: a Smash covers a broad category of cocktails, whereas a Bramble is a specific cocktail with a unique recipe. The Smash’s origins trace back to mid-19th century, and it is often seen as a relative of the Mint Julep, highlighting its adaptability over generations.

The Smash category prominently features a base spirit combined with crushed ice and both fruity and herbal elements, typically enhanced by mint. The act of “smashing” or muddling the fresh ingredients into the drink is a fundamental process that sets it apart. One of the most recognized variations is the Whiskey Smash, which incorporates elements of a traditional Mint Julep, adding lemon wedges to release the essential oils from the rind.

In contrast, the Bramble, developed in the 1980s by London bartender Dick Bradsell, focuses on freshness with its inclusion of blackberries, a fruit that resonates with Bradsell’s childhood memories. The cocktail combines gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and crème de mûre, a blackberry liqueur, creating a visually striking drink with a layered “bleeding” effect when the liqueur is drizzled over crushed ice.

The differences become apparent when analyzing the preparation of each drink. In a Smash, the fruit and herbs are muddled directly into the cocktail, offering a rustic and fresh flavor profile. Conversely, the traditional Bramble relies on the liqueur for its blackberry flavor, although some modern interpretations may include muddled blackberries for a twist.

Mint serves as a key ingredient in most Smash cocktails, although basil has begun to make its mark, creating exciting combinations like blackberry sage Vodka Smash. Therefore, while both cocktails showcase seasonal fruits beautifully, the methods and ingredients used significantly influence their taste and presentation.

For further exploration of cocktail differences, you might check out the Whiskey Smash and other exciting variations that highlight seasonal ingredients.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to host an expanded stage of 48 nations, leading to 104 matches across North America. With many fans expected to follow the action from home, it’s the perfect time to explore exciting new cocktails inspired by the tournament.

This cocktail collection features 12 unique recipes that highlight spirits from various nations participating in the World Cup, including Scotland, Norway, the United States, France, Mexico, and Japan. Even nations that did not qualify find ways to celebrate the global event with inventive beverages.

Here’s a selection of easy-to-make cocktails to enjoy during game day:

Buchanita

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Buchanan’s 12-Year-Old DeLuxe Blended Scotch Whisky
• 5 oz Fresh Pineapple Juice
• Fresh Pineapple Slice for Garnish

Method:Combine the whisky and pineapple juice in a shaker with ice, shake well, and strain into a lowball glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a pineapple slice.

The World Caip

Ingredients:

• 1 fresh strawberry
• 1.5 oz Rota 48 Silver Cachaca
• 1.5 oz Passionfruit Pineapple Barmalade
• 0.5 oz Ancho Reyes Verde
• 0.75 oz Agave Syrup
• 3 Basil Leaves
• Garnish: Dragon fruit ball, basil leaf, Tajín

Method:Muddle the strawberry in a shaker, then add the cachaca, barmalade, Ancho Reyes, agave, and basil leaves along with ice. Shake for 20 seconds, rim a glass with Tajín, and strain the mixture over fresh ice. Garnish with a dragon fruit ball and a basil leaf.

Coupe of Gold – For a Crowd

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups Cointreau
• 1.5 cups Fresh Lemon Juice
• 1 tbsp Ground Turmeric
• 0.5 cup Simple Syrup
• 3 cups The Botanist gin
• 29 Mint leaves

Method:Mix all ingredients in a punch bowl and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add large ice cubes and garnish with lemon wheels and mint leaves.

La Verde

Ingredients:

• 1.25 oz Tequila Don Julio 1942
• 0.75 oz Lime Juice
• 0.5 oz Giffard Cucumber Syrup
• 1 oz Coconut Water
• 2-3 oz Soda Water
• Cucumber for Garnish

Method:Muddle cucumber slices in a shaker, add the remaining ingredients (except soda), and shake with ice. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice, top with soda water, and garnish with a cucumber ribbon.

Cazcanes El Alevado (The Elevated One) Golden Margarita

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Cazcanes No.10 Blanco
• 0.35 oz Agave nectar
• 0.75–1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
• 0.15–0.25 oz Yellow Chartreuse
• 1 dash Orange Bitters
• 1 drop Saline Solution
• Expressed Orange Peel for garnish

Method:Build in a half-salted Old Fashioned glass over a large ice cube. Express an orange peel above, garnish with a lemon wheel, and serve.

The Playmaker Paloma

Ingredients:

• 2 parts Espolòn Blanco
• 0.25 part Fresh Lime Juice
• 1 pinch Sea Salt
• 4 parts Grapefruit Soda

Method:Combine Espolòn, lime juice, and salt in a Collins glass filled with ice. Top with grapefruit soda and gently stir. Garnish with a lime wedge and grapefruit peel.

Toki Highball

Ingredients:

• 45 ml Toki Blended Japanese Whisky
• 3 parts Premium Soda Water
• Grapefruit slice or Lemon Peel for garnish

Method:Chill a glass with ice, add the whisky, and then the soda. Stir gently and garnish with a twist of grapefruit or lemon peel.

Free Healthcare

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Hennessy
• 0.5 oz Allspice Dram
• 0.75 oz Ginger Honey
• 0.75 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
• Barspoon Sushi Vinegar

Method:Shake and strain over a large cube in a rocks glass, then spray with Brennevin Aquavit.

Flying Boat

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Boatyard Double Gin
• 1 oz Dubonnet Rouge
• 1 oz Amaro Nonino
• 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice

Method:Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake, and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a lemon peel.

The Final Whistle

Ingredients:

• 2 oz ALB Vodka
• 1 cup Fresh Watermelon, cubed
• 0.5 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 0.5 oz Simple Syrup
• Fresh Mint Leaves
• Crushed Ice
• Sparkling Water (optional)

Method:Muddle watermelon and mint leaves in a shaker, add vodka, lime juice, simple syrup, and ice. Shake well and strain over crushed ice. Optionally, top with sparkling water and garnish.

Pineapple Playmaker

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Wray & Nephew
• 0.5 oz Koko Kanu Coconut Rum
• 3.5 oz Fresh Pineapple Juice
• 0.7 oz Coconut Syrup or Cream
• Pinch of Salt

Method:Blend all ingredients with ice until smooth. Pour into a hurricane glass, garnished with an umbrella and a small pineapple chunk.

Palm Republic Palm-Loma

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Palm Republic Silver Rum
• 1.5 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
• 0.5 oz Agave Syrup
• 1.5 oz Club Soda
• 1 dash Angostura Bitters

Method:Shake all ingredients (except soda) with ice, strain into a Collins glass filled with ice, top with club soda and add a grapefruit wedge as garnish.

These cocktails promise to enhance the excitement of World Cup watch parties, providing a delicious taste of the tournament through every sip.

Cocktail pairing has evolved significantly, moving from a simple pre- or post-dinner format to a more integrated dining experience. Chefs and bartenders now explore combinations of food and cocktails much like they do with wine, emphasizing balance and contrast. Lynnette Marrero, an award-winning bartender and cofounder of the mixology competition Speed Rack, offers insights into the art of pairing cocktails with various cuisines.

Key Principles of Pairing

1. Contrast is Key: Marrero states that cocktails should complement dishes by creating contrasts rather than matching them directly. For example, salty foods pair well with sweet cocktails, and acidic cocktails can balance rich, fatty dishes.

2. Spirit Pairings: Choosing the right spirit is crucial. Gin, with its botanical flavors, must be paired carefully, with an eye to the specific seasonings of a dish. Citrus-forward gins, for instance, work well with a variety of foods, while bolder botanicals require more thoughtful combinations.

Unexpected Combinations

Marrero suggests some unique pairings:

• Prosciutto and melon with a Last Word cocktail (equal parts gin, lime juice, maraschino liqueur, and Chartreuse).
• Sushi is enhanced by a French 75, which includes gin or Cognac, fresh lemon juice, and sparkling wine.
• Fish and caviar pair excellently with agave-based cocktails.
• Dessert options include a rich chocolate dish with a smoky mezcal cocktail.

Breakfast and Lunch Pairings

Beyond the usual suspects like Bloody Marys, Marrero encourages creativity with cocktails at breakfast and lunch. Experimentation within traditional templates can lead to exciting combinations, such as using green juices instead of tomato juice in Marys.

Optimizing Cocktail Prep for Dinner Parties

For those hosting multicourse meals, Marrero advocates pre-batching cocktails. This approach allows for seamless entertaining. Cocktails like Martinis, Manhattans, and Negronis can be prepared in bulk and chilled, with fresh elements added right before serving.

Non-Alcoholic Options

The popularity of zero-proof cocktails is on the rise, offering complex flavor profiles comparable to alcoholic beverages. Marrero suggests using strong herbal teas to build intricate flavors in non-alcoholic cocktails.

For more detailed advice on pairing cocktails and food, as well as specific drink recommendations, explore Marrero’s expertise.

For further resources, check:

• Food & Wine

Whether you’ve chosen a premium bourbon or you’re working with something more standard, crafting a cocktail is always a great idea. Classic bourbon cocktails hold a timeless appeal; their simplicity allows the whiskey to shine while achieving a perfect balance with other ingredients. Here are eleven old-school bourbon cocktails that have stood the test of time.

1. Old Fashioned
   The Old Fashioned is a quintessential bourbon cocktail with origins dating back over 100 years. This drink combines bourbon, bitters, and sugar, served over ice. Traditionally, a sugar cube is muddled with bitters and a bit of water to dissolve, making it slightly sweeter. Its history traces back to the earliest cocktails, which were defined as spirit, sugar, water, and bitters, leading to the term "old-fashioned" by the late 1800s.

2. Boulevardier
   A Boulevardier is a bourbon-to-Negroni transformation. Instead of gin, it uses bourbon, making it rich and smooth. This cocktail mixes bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters, served over ice, often garnished with an orange twist. The Boulevardier’s history goes back to the 1920s, attributed to Erskine Gwynne, who named it after his magazine.

3. Manhattan
   Held in high regard, the Manhattan is an iconic cocktail featuring bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Recognized for its simplicity, this drink celebrates the bourbon flavor. The first known Manhattan recipe emerged in 1882, highlighting its longevity in cocktail culture.

4. Whiskey Sour
   Often mistaken for a contemporary concoction, the Whiskey Sour’s roots extend over a century. This cocktail typically consists of bourbon, lemon juice, sugar, and bitters. Known for its balance of sweet and sour, bourbon adds a unique smoothness. The first mentions trace back to the 1860s.

5. Brown Derby
   A muted, yet refreshing cocktail, the Brown Derby offers a bright alternative with bourbon, grapefruit juice, and a sweetener like maple syrup or honey. Originating in the 1930s, it’s believed to be created in homage to a Hollywood restaurant brimming with celebrity patrons.

6. Fancy Free
   This lesser-known cocktail utilizes ingredients like bourbon, maraschino liqueur, and bitters. Its rise in popularity appears in a 1940s cocktail guide, evolving from an original recipe that was shaken and served in a sugar-rimmed glass.

7. Lion’s Tail
   The Lion’s Tail sets itself apart with allspice liqueur (pimento dram), which brings a spicy depth to the bourbon base. The cocktail features bourbon, allspice liqueur, lime juice, sugar syrup, and bitters. Its history is tied to a 1937 cocktail book, hinting at American origins during the Prohibition era.

8. Kentucky Colonel
   A two-ingredient cocktail that highlights bourbon, the Kentucky Colonel pairs it with Bénédictine for a herbal twist. The simplicity is noteworthy, as it thrives on high-quality bourbon. This drink first appeared in a 1914 bartender’s manual, showcasing its classic charm.

9. Mint Julep
   Famous in the southern U.S., the Mint Julep is a refreshing mix of bourbon, fresh mint, sugar syrup, and bitters. Its precise origins are blurred, though it can possibly be traced back to Persian roots. The first hints of its presentation in America were found in writings from the early 1800s.

10. Man O’ War
    A nod to the legendary racehorse, the Man O’ War cocktail melds bourbon with Triple Sec, sweet vermouth, lemon juice, and sugar syrup. This fruity yet balanced drink emerged in the mid-1900s and reflects the era’s mixology creativity.

11. Whiskey Daisy
    The Whiskey Daisy is part of a family of drinks with roots in the 1800s. Characteristically composed of bourbon, lemon juice, and a sweetener, this cocktail typically incorporates an orange liqueur and is topped with soda water, giving it a lighter finish.

These cocktails, rooted in history and simplicity, maintain their appeal for both new and seasoned drinkers. Whether you mix them at home or order one at a bar, they promise a delightful experience steeped in tradition.

A well-known steakhouse chain, Logan’s Roadhouse, is planning to test THC-infused cocktails at selected locations in Texas. This initiative is set for a one-night bar social event on June 8, where the cocktails will be offered at a price of $9.99 each and will become part of the regular menu afterward.

The THC beverages contain five milligrams of THC made from a hemp-derived ingredient, allowing them to be sold legally in Texas where recreational marijuana is not yet legal. Guests aged 21 and older will have the option to sample all three drinks in a tasting flight for the same price.

The cocktails to be featured include:

• Scarlet Haze: A prickly pear cocktail with lemon and lime.
• Pineapple Express: A fruit mix of pineapple, orange juice, and grenadine.
• High Tide: A blend of pineapple and coconut flavors.

According to Shawn VanWinkle, VP of Marketing at Logan’s Roadhouse, the move reflects changing consumer preferences toward low-dose THC options as alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages.

With a growing market for THC-infused drinks expected to reach $4 billion by 2028, Logan’s aims to capture part of this trend while focusing on its reputation for great food and hospitality. Notably, there will be a restriction of three cocktails per guest, and these drinks cannot be ordered alongside alcoholic beverages.

The chain operates over 115 locations in various states, with several in Texas cities like Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and McAllen.

Americans are experiencing a significant shift in drinking habits, marked by a growing preference for canned cocktails, which are leading to quicker intoxication despite an overall decrease in consumption. The emergence of these ready-to-drink cocktails marks a departure from the past, as venues like Wrigley Field now offer a variety of options, including mai tais and margaritas, from brands like Cutwater.

The popularity of canned cocktails has surged, with nearly 11 billion servings consumed in 2025 alone. This rise can be attributed to the appeal of portable alcoholic beverages, capitalizing on consumer trends and the convenience of ready-made drinks. While US beer sales remain dominant, premixed cocktails have emerged as a bright spot for the alcohol industry, which has experienced declines in recent years.

Historically, liquor has been regulated more stringently than beer, but changes are underway. Four states have recently passed laws to allow the sale of canned cocktails in locations where beer is sold, spurred by liquor companies pushing for an easier access framework. Despite the health implications, with higher-alcohol versions selling well, Americans are gravitating towards these flavorful drinks as they seek cheaper alternatives amid rising consumer costs.

However, many consumers may be unaware of how potent these cocktails are, with instances of accidental binges becoming common. Posts on social media often reflect surprise at how quickly intoxicated individuals become after consuming these drinks, sometimes leading to serious health consequences. The design and packaging of these cocktails could mislead drinkers regarding their true alcohol content, especially for those accustomed to lighter beverages like seltzers.

As the trend continues, awareness of responsible drinking practices is crucial, especially for emerging consumers of these products.