Learn the foundations through familiar drinks
These ten classic cocktails introduce the techniques you will use again and again: building in a glass, stirring with ice, shaking, and preparing mint and citrus. Start with the method you want to practice, then choose a flavor you enjoy.
What each recipe teaches
Screwdriver and Aperol Spritz offer an easy introduction to measuring and pouring. Negroni teaches a simple equal-parts formula. Martini and Manhattan show how stirring chills a drink without adding foam. Old Fashioned starts with sugar, bitters, and water. Margarita and Daiquiri balance citrus and sweetness in the shaker. Tom Collins adds soda to a gin sour; Mojito combines rum, lime, sugar, mint, and soda.
Practice before changing the recipe
Make the listed version first so you have a reference point. Use the same measuring tool each time and pay attention to the finished drink's temperature and dilution. Once the method feels comfortable, compare another classic made with the same spirit.
