The history of cocktails goes back centuries, and their importance and popularity have constantly changed over time. According to some sources, the first cocktails appeared in the early 1800s and have remained popular ever since. The culture of cocktails has now spread worldwide and is an important part of gastronomy.
In the wonderful world of cocktails, the interplay of flavors offers a fascinating experience. These delicious drinks are not just drinks, but real works of art that reflect the skill and creativity of the bartender.
The craft of cocktail making lies in the harmony of the right ingredients, where the unique nature of the ingredients and the way they are prepared create the true taste experience.
What cocktails are there?
Aperol Spritz
Aperol Spritz is a particularly light and refreshing cocktail of Italian origin and can be classified as an aperitif drink. Aperol is a bitter orange liqueur originally created in 1919 in Padua.
When making the cocktail, Aperol is usually diluted with prosecco and a dash of soda water. Aperol Spritz is easy to make, but the harmony of flavors is special and comforting.
We usually pour one part Aperol, two parts prosecco and a little soda water into a large wine glass. Fill the glass with ice, then gently mix the ingredients.
Decorate the top of the cocktail with a few orange slices or a ring of orange peel, which further enhances the flavors of the bitter Aperol and fresh prosecco.
Mojito
Mojito is a cocktail of Cuban origin that offers the perfect harmony of freshness, mint aroma and citrus flavors. This cocktail is usually made using white rum, sugar, lime (or lemon) juice, soda water and fresh mint leaves.
During preparation, sugar and mint are placed at the bottom of a glass, then crushed well to release the aromas of the mint and the sugar to dissolve in the lime juice. White rum is then added, the glass is filled with ice, and soda water is poured over it.
The entire drink is carefully stirred to ensure that the flavors and ingredients are evenly mixed, then garnished with a few fresh mint leaves and perhaps a lime wedge.
Negroni
The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail created in Florence at the beginning of the 20th century. The drink, born from the combination of simple but at the same time characteristic ingredients, has now become one of the most well-known and loved cocktails in the world.
Making a Negroni is extremely simple, but its flavor is all the richer. Its base consists of three equal parts: gin, red vermouth and Campari. Gin is the basic component of the cocktail, which gives it the alcohol content and character notes.
Red vermouth contributes deep, complex flavors, while Campari highlights the uniqueness of the cocktail with its bitter, fruity flavor and striking color.
Bloody Mary
The Bloody Mary is a characterful and iconic cocktail that is often consumed at breakfast or brunch. Its specialty lies in the fact that it combines powerful flavors and freshness in a single glass.
Bloody Mary is basically a vodka-based cocktail made with tomato juice, spices and various flavorings. The basic recipe includes vodka, freshly squeezed lemon juice, tomato juice and/or tomato juice-based cocktail mix.
Salt, pepper, dried or fresh garlic, and Worcestershire sauce are often used for seasoning. The degree of seasoning and the exact ratio of ingredients may vary depending on personal preference.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that is one of the oldest and most well-known cocktail recipes. The strength of the cocktail lies in its simplicity and refined taste.
The origins of the Old Fashioned can be traced back to the early 19th century in the United States of America, and it has remained popular throughout the decades. The Old Fashioned is basically made using whiskey (most often bourbon or rye whiskey), sugar, Angostura bitters and orange slices.
During the preparation of the cocktail, sprinkle the cubed sugar in the tumbler with angostura and crush it. Put a few ice cubes in the glass and pour the whiskey over it. Add a little water, stir and garnish with an orange slice or cocktail cherry.
Cocktails take us to a fascinating and diverse world, where flavors, aromas and creativity create an artistic symphony of pleasure. Each sip is a little adventure, where the selection is rich and the possibilities are almost endless.
Whether it’s a timeless classic or a bold new creation, cocktails can always enchant and make moments memorable. So let’s fill the glasses, toast to the experiences and enjoy the diversity of flavors that lies in the drinks.