THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the world of cocktails, where creativity meets

craftsmanship, and flavors come alive in a glass! If you've
ever been intrigued by the art of mixology, or wanted to
impress your friends and family with your bartending
skills, then you're in for a treat. In this e-book, we will take
you on a journey through the top 10 selling cocktails in
the world, according to "Drinks International", and show
you how to make them like a pro.

Whether you're a seasoned bartender looking to up your

game, or a home enthusiast looking to impress your
guests, this e-book will provide you with the tools,
techniques, and recipes to create the most delicious and
visually stunning cocktails that will captivate your taste
buds and elevate your entertaining game to the next level.
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

INDEX
BASIC TOOLS

TECHNIQUES FOR BUILDING

THE BEST DRINKS

MAKING COCKTAILS WITHOUT

EXPENSIVE BOTTLES

OLD FASHIONED

NEGRONI

DRY MARTINI

MARGARITA

DAIQUIRI

APEROL SPRITZ

ESPRESSO MARTINI

MANHATTAN

MOJITO

WHISKY SOUR

CONCLUSION
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

BASIC TOOLS

Before we dive into the world of cocktails, let's first

familiarize ourselves with the basic tools that every
aspiring bartender should have in their arsenal. These
tools will not only make your cocktail-making process
more efficient but will also help you achieve professional-
looking results. Here are some essential tools you'll need:

Cocktail Shaker A must-have tool for making cocktails, a

cocktail shaker allows you to mix liquids together and chill
them quickly. There are two main types of shakers - the
Boston shaker, which consists of a metal tin and a mixing
glass, and the Cobbler shaker, which has a built-in
strainer and cap. Choose the one that suits your style and
comfort.

Jigger: A jigger is a measuring tool used to measure the

precise amount of liquid ingredients for cocktails. It
typically has two sides with different measurements,
usually 1 oz and 1.5 oz, which are the most common
measurements in cocktail recipes. Using a jigger ensures
consistency and accuracy in your cocktails.
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

BASIC TOOLS

Mixing Glass A mixing glass is a glass container used

for stirring cocktails. It's typically made of glass and has a
spout for easy pouring. It's ideal for cocktails that require
gentle stirring, such as those with delicate ingredients like
herbs or fruits.

Bar Spoon A long-handled spoon used for stirring

cocktails, a bar spoon is an essential tool for properly
mixing ingredients in a mixing glass or shaker. It typically
has a twisted handle, which makes it easy to grip and
spin.

Strainer A strainer is used to separate the liquid from the

solid ingredients in a cocktail. There are different types of
strainers, such as Hawthorne strainer, Julep strainer, and
Fine mesh strainer, each used for different purposes.
Choose the one that suits your needs and the type of
cocktails you'll be making.
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

TECHNIQUES FOR
BUILDING THE BEST
DRINKS

Now that you have your basic tools ready, it's time to
learn some techniques for building the best drinks. Just
like any other craft, mixology has its own set of
techniques that can help you achieve professional-level
results. Here are some key techniques to keep in mind:

Stirring Stirring is the most common technique used in

cocktail making, and it's typically used for cocktails that
contain only clear liquids, such as spirits or liqueurs. To
stir a cocktail, fill a mixing glass with ice, add the
ingredients, and then gently stir with a bar spoon for
about 30 seconds or until the drink is properly chilled and
diluted. Strain into a glass and enjoy!
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

TECHNIQUES FOR
BUILDING THE BEST
DRINKS

Shaking Shaking is another popular technique used in

cocktail making, and it's typically used for cocktails that
contain ingredients that need to be well-mixed, such as
citrus juice, egg whites, or cream. To shake a cocktail, fill
a cocktail shaker with ice, add the ingredients, and then
seal the shaker. Hold the shaker with both hands and
shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds, or until the
shaker feels frosty and cold. Strain the cocktail into a
glass, using a strainer to catch any ice or solid
ingredients, and enjoy the frothy and well-mixed drink!

Muddling Muddling is a technique used to release the

flavors of solid ingredients, such as herbs, fruits, or sugar,
by crushing them with a muddler. To muddle, place the
solid ingredients in the bottom of a glass, and gently
press and twist with a muddler to release the flavors.
Then add the liquid ingredients and stir or shake to mix.
This technique is commonly used in cocktails like Mojitos
or Old Fashioned, where the flavors of fresh herbs or
fruits are important.
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

TECHNIQUES FOR
BUILDING THE BEST
DRINKS

Layering Layering is a technique used to create visually

stunning cocktails with distinct layers of different-colored
liquids. To layer, pour the heaviest liquid first, then slowly
pour the next heaviest liquid over the back of a spoon so
that it floats on top of the first layer. Repeat with the
remaining liquids, using the spoon to control the pour and
create distinct layers. This technique is commonly used in
cocktails like Pousse-Café or B-52, where the layers
create an eye-catching presentation.

Rimming Rimming is a technique used to add flavor and

visual appeal to the rim of a cocktail glass. To rim,
moisten the rim of the glass with a citrus wedge or simple
syrup, then dip the rim into a plate of salt, sugar, or other
desired ingredient. This technique is commonly used in
cocktails like Margaritas or Martinis, where the rim adds
an extra layer of flavor and decoration.
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

MAKING
COCKTAILS
WITHOUT
EXPENSIVE
BOTTLES
One common misconception about making cocktails is
that you need to have a fully stocked bar with expensive
bottles of liquor and liqueurs. However, this is not always
the case. With a few key ingredients and some creativity,
you can make an array of cocktails without breaking the
bank. Here are some tips for making cocktails without
expensive bottles:

Choose versatile spirits Instead of buying a wide variety

of spirits, choose versatile ones that can be used in
multiple cocktails. For example, a good quality vodka, gin,
rum, and whiskey can be used in a wide range of
cocktails, from classics to modern creations. This way,
you can create a diverse cocktail menu without having to
buy a lot of expensive bottles.
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

MAKING
COCKTAILS
WITHOUT
EXPENSIVE
BOTTLES
Make your own infusions and syrups Infused spirits
and flavored syrups can add unique flavors to cocktails
without the need for expensive specialty liqueurs. You
can easily make your own infusions by adding herbs,
fruits, or spices to a bottle of spirits and letting it steep for
a few days. Similarly, flavored syrups can be made by
dissolving sugar in equal parts of water and adding
flavors like fruits, herbs, or spices. Homemade infusions
and syrups not only add unique flavors to your cocktails
but also allow you to customize the taste according to
your preference.

Get simple but creative with garnishes Garnishes not

only add visual appeal to cocktails but also enhance the
flavor profile. Instead of buying expensive garnishes, get
creative with what you have on hand. For example, citrus
twists, fresh herbs, or even a simple cherry can add a pop
of color and flavor to your cocktails without having to buy
specialty garnishes.
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

MAKING
COCKTAILS
WITHOUT
EXPENSIVE
BOTTLES
Experiment with substitutes If a cocktail recipe calls for
a specific ingredient that you don't have or can't afford,
don't be afraid to experiment with substitutes. For
example, if a recipe calls for a specific liqueur but you
don't have it, you can try using a similar-flavored liqueur
or even a different spirit altogether. You can also
experiment with different types of sweeteners or citrus
juices to suit your taste preferences. Don't be afraid to get
creative and make substitutions based on what you have
available in your bar.

Utilize seasonal produce Another way to make

cocktails without expensive bottles is to use seasonal
produce. Fresh fruits, herbs, and spices that are in
season can add incredible flavors to your cocktails and
are usually more affordable than specialty liqueurs. Plus,
using seasonal produce adds a touch of freshness and
uniqueness to your drinks.
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

NOW THAT YOU HAVE SOME

BASIC TECHNIQUES AND TIPS
FOR MAKING COCKTAILS
WITHOUT EXPENSIVE BOTTLES,
LET'S MOVE ON TO THE
EXCITING PART - THE RECIPES!
HERE ARE THE TOP 10 MOST
POPULAR CLASSIC COCKTAILS
ACCORDING TO "DRINKS
INTERNATIONAL", ALONG WITH
THEIR RECIPES.
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

OLD FASHIONED

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

2 oz bourbon 1. Add bourbon, sugar syrup and Angostura bitters to

a mixing glass with ice.
1 sugar cube
2. Stir until well combined.
2 dashes Angostura 3. Strain into an old-fashioned glass with a large ice
bitters cube.
4. Garnish with an orange twist.
Orange twist, for
garnish
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

NEGRONI

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

1 oz gin 1. Add gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari to a mixing

glass with ice.
1 oz sweet vermouth
2. Stir until well chilled.
1 oz Campari 3. Strain into a glass with a large ice cube.
Orange twist, for 4. Garnish with an orange twist.

garnish
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

DRY MARTINI

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

2 1/2 oz gin or vodka 1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.

2. Add gin or vodka and dry vermouth.
1/2 oz dry vermouth
3. Stir well for about 30 seconds.
Lemon twist or 4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
olive, for garnish 5. Garnish with a lemon twist or an olive.
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

MARGARITA

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

2 oz tequila 1. Rim a glass with salt.

2. Fill a shaker with tequila, triple sec, and lime juice.
1 oz triple sec
3. Shake with ice and strain into the prepared glass
3/4 oz freshly filled with ice.
squeezed lime juice 4. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Salt, for rimming

Lime wheel, for
garnish
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

DAIQUIRI

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

2 oz white rum 1. Fill a shaker with rum, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Shake with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail
1 oz freshly
glass.
squeezed lime juice 3. Garnish with a lime wheel.
3/4 oz simple syrup
(made by dissolving
equal parts sugar
and water)
Lime wheel, for
garnish
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

APEROL SPRITZ

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

3 oz Aperol 1. Fill a wine glass with ice.

2. Add Aperol and Prosecco.
3 oz Prosecco
3. Top with a splash of soda water.
Splash of soda 4. Stir gently.
water 5. Garnish with an orange slice.

Orange slice, for

garnish
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

ESPRESSO MARTINI

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

2 oz vodka 1. Fill a shaker with vodka, coffee liqueur, freshly

brewed espresso, and simple syrup.
1 oz coffee liqueur
2. Shake with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail
1 oz freshly brewed glass.
espresso 3. Garnish with coffee beans.

1/2 oz simple syrup

Coffee beans, for
garnish
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

MANHATTAN

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

2 oz rye whiskey or 1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.

2. Add rye whiskey or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and
bourbon
Angostura bitters.
1 oz sweet vermouth 3. Stir well for about 30 seconds.
2 dashes Angostura 4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange
bitters
peel twist
Maraschino cherry,
for garnish
Orange peel, for
garnish
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

MOJITO

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

2 oz white rum 1. In a glass, muddle the mint leaves with lime juice
and simple syrup.
3/4 oz freshly
2. Fill the glass with crushed ice.
squeezed lime juice 3. Add rum and stir.
1/2 oz simple syrup 4. Top with soda water.
5. Garnish with a mint sprig.
6-8 fresh mint
leaves
Soda water, to top
Mint sprig, for
garnish
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

WHISKY SOUR

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

2 oz bourbon or rye 1. Fill a shaker with whiskey, lemon juice, and simple
syrup.
whiskey
2. Shake with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail
3/4 oz freshly glass.
squeezed lemon 3. Garnish with a cherry.

juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
cherry, for garnish
 THE ULTIMATE COCKTAIL HANDBOOK

CONCLUSION

There you have it, the top 10 most popular classic

cocktails according to "Drinks International". With these
recipes, you can impress your friends and guests with
delicious cocktails without having to buy lots of expensive
bottles. Remember to utilize basic tools, techniques, and
substitutions to create unique and flavorful drinks. Cheers
to your bartending skills and may you enjoy the world of
cocktails to the fullest! Drink responsibly and experiment
with different variations to find your personal favorites.
Cheers to a world of delicious cocktails and happy
mixing! Prost! Salud! Cin cin! Sláinte! Cheers! Skål! Na
zdrowie! Kampai! Salute! Saúde! Cheers! Proost!
Bottoms up!

Note: Legal drinking age and laws may vary by

country or region. Please ensure you adhere to the
legal drinking age and laws in your area. Drink
responsibly.