Drinking is always more fun with company, but some drinks are better for a group setting than others. It can be fun to try new cocktails you’ve never had before during a special event or party as well as include some of the classics. Here are just some of the alcoholic beverages that’ll keep the good times flowing between you and your friends if you are planning on hosting a get-together soon.
Mojito
Light, fruity, and delicious, mojitos are the ultimate summer drink. They’re also easy to whip up in a large jug or pitcher so that you can spend more time with your friends and less time playing bartender. While the traditional mojito is made with lime juice, soda water, sugar, mint, and white rum, you can customize the recipe according to your own tastes. Popular variations include mojitos made with strawberries, raspberries, grapefruits, coconut juice, and different types of rum. You can also try to make the “frojito” that’s served completely frozen, but it can be tricky to master.
Old-Fashioned
The classics are classic for a reason, so if you’ve never tried an old-fashioned, it’s time to pull out the whiskey. You can make it with either bourbon or rye combined with sugar, bitters, and a dash of water. That’s it! You can get fancier by adding a garnish, typically an orange peel, and serving it in a vintage lowball glass. However, the basic composition of the drink hasn’t changed since the late 1800s, so it’ll be a timeless choice for your get-together.
Buffalo Float
Also called “the adult root beer float,” this is a sweet, creamy drink that’s a favorite of bourbon suppliers. Source some high-quality bourbon from a company like the Barrel Tap for your buffalo float. This drink combines a scoop of vanilla ice cream with four ounces of root beer and two ounces of Buffalo Trace bourbon cream. The end result is a thick and tasty beverage that’s not unlike a root beer float, except it’ll have a kick of good old-fashioned bourbon with every sip, and it’ll serve as liquor and a dessert all in one. It’ll be perfect for after-dinner drinks with your pals.
Bloody Mary
Making a bloody Mary can be just as fun as drinking one. Its ingredient list is extensive: vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, celery salt, and black pepper. These are the official ingredients as outlined by the International Bartender Association. However, you can always mix it up or even buy a pre-made bloody Mary mix at the liquor store; it depends on what kind of party you’re trying to have. For the fastest results, use a mix. For boozy adventures at your home bar, get to experimenting.
Manhattan
A Manhattan is one of the most classic cocktails out there. It contains rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and aromatic bitters. You can make your own substitutions for this drink based on your preference, but it’s recommended to stick to the classic recipe.
Mimosas
Mimosas are perfect for parties. You can mix this cocktail in a large pitcher that everyone can share. There are many different combinations of mimosas that you can try. You can stick with the classic orange juice and prosecco or try any other fresh pressed juice. You can add berries or pieces of fruit for an extra special touch. Mimosas are a great option for brunch, lunch, or summer nights.
Martini
Martinis are another classic cocktail that many people love. There are different ways to prepare a martini, so it can appeal to anyone’s taste. They are typically made with gin, dry vermouth, and orange bitters, but you can also use vodka if you prefer. Espresso martinis are a great variation of the classic martini. You can make this by using vodka, coffee liquor, and a cooled espresso shot.
Daiquiri
The classic recipe for this drink includes rum, simple syrup, and fresh lime juice. There are many other variations you can make as well though. Banana and strawberry, for example, make great additions to a daiquiri. This drink is a great option if you are hosting a summer party. It will keep everyone cool and refreshed. Allow your friends to make their own combination of flavors for the daiquiri based on their taste preferences.
These are just a few drinks that’ll be fun to make and serve among friends. There are many more, of course, but these ideas should be enough to give you a little inspiration for future dinners, parties, and gatherings. Make sure you have enough variation with your drinks for your friends to choose from so they are able to have a drink they truly enjoy. Stock up on different types of liquor, juices, bitters, and fresh fruit so your guests can make their own mixed drinks as well.