16+ Upscale Drinks

Upscale drinks add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any occasion. They are often crafted with high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations, creating a memorable experience for those who enjoy them. Discovering which upscale drinks to serve can elevate your social events and impress your guests.

Whether you are hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special event, or simply looking to try something new, learning about these drinks will inspire you to expand your cocktail repertoire. The following article will explore a variety of 16 upscale drinks that showcase creativity and refined taste.

1) Negroni

The Negroni is a classic cocktail with a strong, balanced flavor. It combines equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. This drink has an appealing bitterness from the Campari, which is balanced by the sweetness of the vermouth and the floral notes of the gin.

To make a Negroni, you need to mix one ounce of gin, one ounce of Campari, and one ounce of sweet vermouth. Stir the mixture with ice to chill it.

After stirring, strain the drink into a rocks glass over fresh ice. You can garnish it with an orange peel to enhance the aroma. The orange peel adds a citrusy twist to the drink.

The Negroni is perfect as an aperitif, enjoyed before a meal to stimulate your appetite. It’s also a great option for those who appreciate a more complex, bitter drink.

Whether you’re hosting a party or relaxing at home, the Negroni is a sophisticated choice that’s easy to make and enjoy.

2) Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a timeless, classy drink that never goes out of style. You start with a rocks glass and add 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, 3 dashes of Angostura bitters, and 1 teaspoon of water. Muddle these ingredients until the sugar dissolves.

Next, fill the glass with ice cubes. Pour 2 oz of whiskey over the ice. Many prefer bourbon, but rye whiskey is also a popular choice.

A key part of the Old Fashioned is its garnish. Add an orange peel for a fresh citrus aroma. Some people also like adding a cherry for extra sweetness.

The Old Fashioned is known for its simplicity and strong, rich flavors. It’s a go-to choice for many who enjoy whiskey.

This drink is perfect to sip slowly and savor. It can be served at any high-end event or enjoyed as a quiet evening treat.

3) Martini

The Martini is one of the most iconic and elegant drinks. It’s often associated with sophistication and style. This classic cocktail usually includes gin and dry vermouth, garnished with an olive or a lemon twist.

To make a Martini, you’ll need a cocktail shaker or mixing glass. Start by adding your gin and dry vermouth. Fill the shaker with ice and stir for about 30 seconds.

Once stirred, strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with an olive or a lemon twist for a traditional touch. You can also experiment with different garnishes to suit your taste.

Some popular variations include the Dirty Martini, made with olive brine, and the Vodka Martini, substituting vodka for gin. Each brings its own unique flavor profile to the classic recipe.

4) Manhattan

The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that dates back to the late 19th century. It is known for its rich and elegant flavor profile.

A Manhattan is made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a dash of bitters. The drink is usually garnished with a cherry or a twist of citrus peel.

Traditionally, rye whiskey is used, but bourbon can also be a good choice. The cocktail is typically served in a martini glass or a coupe.

The balance between the whiskey and the sweetness of the vermouth makes the Manhattan a sophisticated and timeless choice. It is often enjoyed as a pre-dinner drink.

Vermouth plays an important role in the Manhattan, adding complexity and depth. The bitters give it an extra layer of flavor, making it smooth yet bold.

To make a perfect Manhattan, stir the ingredients with ice, then strain into a chilled glass. This classic cocktail is essential for any upscale drinks menu.

5) Espresso Martini

Espresso Martini blends the bold flavors of coffee with the smoothness of vodka. You get a bit of both worlds: the kick of caffeine and the elegance of a cocktail.

To make a classic Espresso Martini, you need vodka, coffee liqueur, simple syrup, and a shot of fresh espresso.

Place all ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well until everything is chilled and mixed thoroughly.

Strain the mixture into a martini glass. You should notice a creamy froth on top, showing you’ve shaken it well.

For a special touch, garnish with a few coffee beans on the froth. This not only looks classy but adds a slight aroma.

There are many variations of this drink. You can add hazelnut liqueur for a nutty flavor or a splash of chocolate liqueur for a richer taste. Explore and enjoy your perfect Espresso Martini!

6) French 75

The French 75 is a classic cocktail that combines gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and sparkling wine. This drink is light, refreshing, and perfect for special occasions.

To make a French 75, you start with a cocktail shaker. Add 1.5 ounces of gin, 0.75 ounces of fresh lemon juice, and 0.5 ounces of simple syrup.

Fill the shaker halfway with ice and shake it well for about 20 seconds. This blends the ingredients and chills the mixture.

Next, strain the mixture into a Champagne flute to keep it smooth and elegant. Slowly pour in 2 ounces of chilled, dry sparkling wine to finish the drink.

Garnish with a lemon twist if you like. The mix of gin and sparkling wine gives the French 75 a bubbly and zesty taste, making it a favorite choice for celebrations.

7) Mint Julep

The Mint Julep is a refreshing drink often enjoyed in the warmer months. You start by placing fresh mint leaves and simple syrup in a julep cup or a rocks glass. Gently muddle the mint to release its aroma.

Next, add a generous amount of crushed ice to the glass. Pour in the bourbon, and stir to mix all the ingredients. You can add more crushed ice on top to create a dome shape.

For a classic touch, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint. If you prefer, you can also add a few drops of bitters for extra flavor. The drink should be served cold, with the outside of the glass frosty.

8) Margarita

The Margarita is a classic cocktail that’s simple to make and full of flavor. It’s typically made with tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur. A bit of sea salt on the rim of the glass adds a special touch.

To make a Margarita, you start by sprinkling sea salt onto a cloth. Then, set your glass upside down on the cloth so the rim picks up some salt.

Next, add your tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice to a shaker with ice. Shake it for a few seconds to mix everything well. Pour the contents into a rocks glass, including the ice.

Ready-to-drink Margaritas are available too. They come in different flavors like sweet, spicy, and classic lime. You can find these pre-made options in most stores, making it even easier to enjoy a Margarita at any time.

This drink remains one of the most popular cocktails around, known for its refreshing and tangy taste.

9) Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan, often called “Cosmo,” is a classy and vibrant cocktail perfect for many occasions. Its striking pink color and citrusy flavor make it a favorite among cocktail lovers.

To make a classic Cosmopolitan, you need citron vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice. Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lime wedge or twist of orange for a fresh touch.

There are many variations to explore. For instance, you can try the Raspberry Rendezvous Cosmopolitan, which uses raspberry vodka and raspberry liqueur, adding a fruity twist. Garnish it with fresh raspberries for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Another version is the Pink Lemonade Cosmopolitan. Substitute the cranberry juice with pink lemonade and follow the same preparation steps. This tweak adds a unique, refreshing taste.

Whether you stick to the original or try a new variation, the Cosmopolitan remains a timeless and sophisticated choice.

10) Mai Tai

The Mai Tai is a classic tropical cocktail. It first appeared at Trader Vic’s in Oakland, California, in 1944. This drink is often linked with Hawaiian and Polynesian flavors.

You start with white rum, orange curaçao, lime juice, and orgeat syrup. Shake them with ice for a few seconds. Pour the mixture into a glass.

Next, float dark rum on top. This gives the cocktail a layered look and adds depth to its flavor. Add a lime wheel and a mint sprig to garnish.

Some recipes include extra fruits like orange or strawberry slices. You can also add ingredients like mango nectar for a twist.

Make sure to use fresh lime juice. The right combination of rums can make a big difference. Enjoy your Mai Tai with friends or at a summer party.

11) Sidecar

The Sidecar is a classic cocktail with a rich history. It’s made with three main ingredients: cognac, orange liqueur, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.

To prepare the drink, you’ll need a cocktail shaker. Mix ice, 1¾ ounces cognac, ¾ ounce orange liqueur, and ¾ ounce lemon juice. Shake it well to chill the mixture.

Rimming the glass with sugar adds a touch of sweetness. Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of a martini or coupe glass. Then dip the rim into a plate of granulated sugar.

Strain the shaken mixture into your glass. Garnish with a twist of lemon peel for a simple, elegant finish. The Sidecar balances tartness and sweetness, making it a standout cocktail.

12) Daiquiri

A classic cocktail, the Daiquiri is both refreshing and simple. It’s a mix of rum, lime juice, and sugar syrup. You’ll often see light rum used in this drink, providing a clean, crisp base.

Start by squeezing fresh lime juice. Fresh juice makes a big difference in the flavor. Combine it with light rum and simple syrup in a shaker.

Add ice to the shaker and shake well. This cools the drink and blends the flavors. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass to keep it cold.

For a variation, try using demerara sugar syrup instead of regular simple syrup. It adds a deeper, richer taste to the cocktail. Another option is to blend different rums for a more complex flavor profile.

Garnish with a lime wheel or twist for a simple, elegant touch. It adds a bit of color and a hint of lime aroma.

13) Pisco Sour

The Pisco Sour is a classic cocktail originating from South America, particularly Peru and Chile. It’s known for its unique blend of flavors and a frothy top layer made from egg whites.

To make a Pisco Sour, you need Pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and an egg white. The egg white is key to giving the drink its signature foam.

Start by adding Pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and the egg white to a cocktail shaker without ice. Shake hard for about 15 seconds.

Next, add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 30 seconds. This chills the drink and helps create more foam.

Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass. The foam will rise to the top, creating a smooth, frothy layer.

Finish it off by adding a few drops of bitters on top of the foam. The bitters add a nice aromatic touch and a bit of extra flavor.

The Pisco Sour is refreshing and zesty, making it a great choice for both casual and upscale settings. Enjoy its rich and tangy taste with every sip.

14) Whiskey Sour

When you think of a classic cocktail, the Whiskey Sour is a must-try. It blends whiskey with fresh lemon juice and simple syrup.

To make this drink, you need bourbon or rye whiskey. Choose whiskey based on your taste preference. Bourbon adds a sweeter note, while rye gives a spicier touch.

For freshness, use freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bottled juice can change the flavor and make the drink taste off.

Add simple syrup for sweetness. You can adjust the amount to match how sweet you like your drinks.

Shake the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice until well chilled. Strain the mix into a glass filled with ice.

Some recipes add an egg white to give the drink a creamy texture. If you choose to use egg white, dry shake the ingredients first (without ice) to froth the egg, then shake again with ice.

Finally, garnish with a cherry or lemon twist. This adds a nice finishing touch and enhances the presentation.

The Whiskey Sour is a simple yet sophisticated drink, perfect for many occasions. It’s a great way to enjoy whiskey in a refreshing form.

15) Mojito

You can’t go wrong with a Mojito. This refreshing cocktail combines the zing of lime with the sweetness of sugar and the cooling taste of mint. All of these ingredients blend seamlessly with white rum and a splash of club soda.

Start with fresh lime juice. Squeeze about half an ounce into a glass. Add a teaspoon of finely granulated sugar and three fresh mint leaves. Muddle these together to release the mint’s oils, which give the Mojito its signature flavor.

Next, pour two ounces of white rum over the muddled mixture. Fill the glass with ice cubes, then top it off with club soda or seltzer. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything together.

Mojitos are versatile. You can customize them to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter drink, simply add more sugar. For a stronger mint flavor, just add more leaves when muddling.

Enjoy this classic cocktail on a warm day. It’s perfect for gatherings with friends or a relaxing evening on your own.

16) Bee’s Knees

The Bee’s Knees is a classic cocktail that dates back to the Prohibition era. It’s a simple yet refreshing drink made with gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup.

To make the honey syrup, combine equal parts honey and water in a small saucepan. Heat until the honey dissolves, then let it cool.

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add 2 ounces of gin, 3/4 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of honey syrup. Shake well to mix and chill the ingredients.

Strain the mixture into a chilled glass. If you want to add a fruity twist, you can include a splash of grapefruit or pineapple juice. Some recipes even recommend adding club soda for a sparkling option.

Lavender honey syrup can be used to give the drink a floral tone. If you’re not a fan of gin, you can substitute vodka as well.

The Bee’s Knees is a versatile cocktail that balances the tartness of lemon with the sweetness of honey, making it perfect for a hot summer day.

Enjoy this classic drink and experiment with the variations to find your favorite version.

The Art of Crafting Upscale Drinks

Creating upscale drinks involves using high-quality ingredients and employing specific techniques to ensure the best flavor and presentation. It’s both a science and an art, requiring precision and creativity.

Essential Ingredients

The foundation of any great upscale drink is quality ingredients. You should use top-notch spirits, fresh juices, and high-quality mixers. For example, a Corpse Reviver needs good gin, fresh lemon juice, Lillet Blanc, absinthe, and simple syrup.

Luxurious ingredients like heavy cream and orange blossom water can take a drink like the Ramos Gin Fizz to the next level. Fresh herbs, such as mint or basil, and fresh fruit garnishes are also important. Ingredients like bitters and flavored liqueurs can add depth and complexity to your drinks.

Techniques and Methods

Using the right techniques is crucial to crafting upscale drinks. Precision and method matter, so be sure to follow recipes closely. For instance, when making a drink like an Old Fashioned, you should start by muddling sugar with bitters and water before adding ice and whiskey.

Stirring and shaking are basic methods that can greatly affect your drink’s texture and temperature. Stirred cocktails, like the Negroni, should be stirred for at least 30 seconds to chill and dilute properly.

Presentation is also key. Use elegant glassware and garnish with care. For example, a lemon or orange peel twist can add a touch of class. Always serve your drinks with attention to detail, ensuring they not only taste great but also look appealing.

The Importance of Glassware

Choosing the right glassware enhances your drinking experience. The shape and size of the glass can affect the aroma, taste, and presentation of your drink.

For instance, a martini glass has a long stem to keep your drink cold and a wide bowl to show off its color. This makes martinis look and taste their best.

Each type of drink has its own best glass. A lowball glass is great for serving drinks with ice, like a whiskey on the rocks. Its short, sturdy design is perfect for slowly sipping a strong drink.

Using the right glass can also make your bar look stylish. A fancy cocktail glass can make a simple drink look impressive. This kind of attention to detail shows you care about quality and presentation.

Certain glasses can even help enhance the flavor of your drink. For example, a Nick and Nora glass is ideal for cocktails with higher alcohol content, as its shape helps concentrate the aroma.