How drinks are built

The families

Most classic cocktails are variations on a handful of templates. Learn the template and the whole family opens up.

SoursSpirit · citrus · sweet · 61 drinksAmaretto Sour, Aviation, Bee’s Knees, Between the Sheets…Martinis & ManhattansSpirit + vermouth, stirred · 29 drinksAdonis, Algonquin, Angel Face, Bamboo…Negronis & SpritzesBitter, sweet, before dinner · 12 drinksAmericano, Bitter Giuseppe, Boulevardier, Cardinale…Old Fashioneds & DuosSpirit · sugar · bitters · 18 drinksArt of Choke, Benton’s Old Fashioned, Black Russian, Brandy Old Fashioned…Highballs & FizzesSpirit, lengthened · 35 drinksAlabama Slammer, Bay Breeze, Bloody Mary, Blue Lagoon…Tiki & PunchesRum, citrus, spice · 22 drinksBanana Daiquiri, Blue Hawaii, Chartreuse Swizzle, Don’s Special Daiquiri…Wine & BubblesBuilt on wine or topped with fizz · 10 drinksBellini, Champagne Cocktail, French 75, Hugo Spritz…Creamy & After-DinnerCream, coffee, chocolate · 10 drinksAlexander, Bushwacker, Death Flip, Eggnog…Fruity & UpFruit-led, shaken, served up · 9 drinksAppletini, Blood and Sand, French Martini, Hotel Nacional Special…Zero ProofNo alcohol, all flavor · 17 drinksArnold Palmer, Chapman, Cinderella, Egg Cream…