In the world of cocktails, some drinks have achieved iconic status, gracing the menus of bars worldwide. However, beneath the surface of these popular choices lies a treasure trove of underrated cocktails that deserve their moment in the spotlight. We reached out to bartenders from various establishments to uncover these hidden gems. Here are the top 10 underrated cocktails that you should try, as recommended by the pros.
- Boulevardier Often overshadowed by its cousin, the Negroni, the Boulevardier swaps out gin for bourbon or rye whiskey. This substitution gives it a richer, more rounded profile. Its combination of whiskey, Campari, and sweet vermouth offers a perfect balance between sweet, bitter, and strong.
- Corpse Reviver #2 Part of a series of “hair of the dog” cocktails, the Corpse Reviver #2 is a refreshing mix of gin, lemon juice, triple sec, Lillet Blanc, and a dash of absinthe. It’s a vibrant cocktail that’s both restorative and delicious, perfect for brunch or an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Last Word This Prohibition-era cocktail made a comeback in the early 2000s but is still relatively unknown to many. A mix of equal parts gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice, it’s a complex, herbaceous drink with a beautiful, pale green hue.
- Aviation The Aviation is a classic cocktail that dates back to the early 20th century. Made with gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice, it has a unique floral and slightly sweet flavor profile that is as delightful as it is unusual.
- Paper Plane A modern classic, the Paper Plane is a balanced mix of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice. It’s a harmonious blend of bitter, sweet, and sour, making it a sophisticated yet approachable choice.
- Bijou The Bijou cocktail is a jewel-toned drink that combines gin, sweet vermouth, green Chartreuse, and orange bitters. It’s a potent yet harmonious mix that’s often overlooked in favor of more mainstream gin-based cocktails.
- Pisco Sour While somewhat popular, the Pisco Sour still doesn’t get the attention it deserves. This Peruvian classic combines pisco (a grape brandy), lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, and bitters, creating a frothy, tangy, and refreshing drink.
- Blood and Sand Named after a 1922 silent film, this scotch-based cocktail mixes orange juice, sweet vermouth, and cherry Heering. It’s a unique combination that provides a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and smoky flavors.
- Caipirinha Brazil’s national cocktail, the Caipirinha, is simple yet exquisite. Made with cachaça (sugarcane hard liquor), sugar, and lime, it’s refreshingly sweet and sour, with a potent kick. It’s often overshadowed by its rum cousin, the Mojito.
- El Diablo A lesser-known tequila cocktail, El Diablo, is a tantalizing blend of tequila, crème de cassis, lime juice, and ginger beer. It offers a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, making it an exciting alternative to the classic Margarita.
Why These Cocktails Deserve More Love These cocktails are not just delicious but also embody the art of mixology. Each one has a unique story and flavor profile, offering a different experience from the usual suspects. They are a testament to the creativity and history embedded in the world of cocktails.
Where to Find These Hidden Gems To experience these underrated cocktails, seek out bars that have a reputation for craft cocktails or speak to a knowledgeable bartender about exploring these lesser-known options. Many upscale bars and speakeasies take pride in reviving old classics or showcasing unique mixes.
Conclusion Next time you find yourself at a bar, consider stepping out of your comfort zone and trying one of these underrated cocktails. Not only will you expand your palate, but you’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and history behind these exquisite drinks. Cheers to discovering new favorites!
