The Bar Journal

CLASSIC…

…formal, refined, and restrained in style. This is what comes to mind when we think about this word.

However, when we think about cocktails, it is a different story: simple, elegant, and harmonious best describe this concussion of flavours each coming with its own intriguing story.

For years bars have been focused on listing the best classic cocktails, partly inspired by instinct but mainly driven by the trend.  Over the past 2 decades, they have started to disappear from menus giving space to innovative serves the level of mixology began to rise.  Not to say the demand is much lower, but that bartenders are instead focusing on using their skills and imagination by exploring the outside world and sourcing ingredients and techniques to find the perfect balance of flavour and compilation.

In our opinion, we believe that you cannot beat an old-classic; from the stylish Aperitivo, to the classic Martini or the sours until the never-aging Old fashioned. Obviously, year by year the ranking changes with figures going up and down depending on the demand and the latest trends but lately we have seen the neo-classics slowly moving up…

Let’s now explore the top ten classic cocktails from last year:

10. Aperol Spritz

In the market since the beginning of the 1900s and in the top 10 of our lists for a little while but slowly going down due to competition within its category.

9. Mojito 

When you land in Havana – Cuba, you must step into La Bodeguita and taste one of their delicious Mojitos. Although this cocktail might seem out of fashion, it is still in high demand in many bars in the country.

8. Manhattan

Not everyone’s cup of tea among consumers but one of the most respected classic cocktails by mixologists. Sweet, dry or perfect?

7. Margarita

Unbelievably it is only number seven but hey, it has moved up from position eight despite the rise of its cousin, the Tommy’s.  A classic made with possibly some of the most twists but always present in every bar in some shape or form.

6. Espresso Martini

The fastest rising modern-age classic of the decade, seen escalating more than twenty positions in just three years, it can rival the big boys for the top positions. Simple and elegant, always ready to be served.

5. Whiskey Sour

Although it is going down in places, this whiskey cocktail has always maintained its spot in the top ten. It is said it was first published in Jerry Thomas’s book ‘How to Mix Drinks’ or the ‘Bon Vivant’s Companion’ in1862 and then made its journey into our bars over the years ever since.

4. Dry Martini

This venerated Martini is also moving up in position compared to the previous year, gaining increasing respect among the classics. Yes, it can be made in any cocktail bar, but be aware that the ingredients (and the glass) must be kept well chilled.

3. Daiquiri

One of our favorite cocktails in this top ten, and with no doubt the most sold rum cocktail in the world. Despite the different fruity (and frozen) variations, the classic version is what the majority seem to like and order

2. Negroni

A very solid number two for the Negroni celebrating its 100^th anniversary. Thanks to the bartenders who convey their passion for the bitter flavour to the consumers, they are now becoming more and more intrigued by this staple cocktail.   

1. Old Fashioned

For its 6^th year in a row, the never-aging Old Fashioned is yet again the top-selling classic by far. It looks like people will never get enough of this:

Salute the King of the cocktails 2019!