Cocktail culture has seen a resurgence in recent years, with mixologists and bartenders crafting intricate and flavorful drinks. While some cocktails have become household names, there are others that remain underrated despite their exceptional taste and unique profiles. Here are eight underrated cocktails that bartenders believe deserve more recognition.
Vieux Carré
The Vieux Carré is a classic New Orleans cocktail that showcases a rich and complex flavor profile. Made with rye whiskey, Cognac, sweet vermouth, Benedictine, and bitters, this drink offers a harmonious blend of sweetness, spice, and herbal notes. The Vieux Carré, named after the French Quarter (Vieux Carré) in New Orleans, is perfect for those who appreciate layered and sophisticated cocktails. Despite its historical significance and delightful taste, it often gets overshadowed by more popular drinks.
Boulevardier
Similar to a Negroni, the Boulevardier substitutes gin with whiskey, creating a deeper and more robust flavor. This cocktail combines whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari, resulting in a bittersweet and sophisticated drink. The Boulevardier is ideal for whiskey lovers who enjoy the complexity of a well-balanced cocktail. Its boldness and depth make it a perfect choice for an evening drink, yet it remains lesser-known compared to its gin-based counterpart.
Last Word
The Last Word is a Prohibition-era cocktail that has stood the test of time due to its balanced and herbal taste. Made with equal parts gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice, this cocktail offers a unique blend of flavors that is both refreshing and intriguing. The Last Word’s harmony of sweet, sour, and herbal elements makes it a standout choice for those seeking something different. However, its relative obscurity means it often flies under the radar.
Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a refreshing Italian cocktail that shines with its vibrant orange color and bittersweet citrus flavor. Made with Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water, this drink is perfect for a sunny afternoon or a pre-dinner aperitif. The Aperol Spritz is light, bubbly, and easy to drink, making it a crowd-pleaser. Despite its popularity in Europe, it is often underrated in other parts of the world where it deserves more appreciation.
Sazerac
The Sazerac is another classic New Orleans cocktail that packs a bold and aromatic punch. Made with rye whiskey, absinthe or Herbsaint, Peychaud’s bitters, and a sugar cube, this drink is often garnished with a lemon twist. The Sazerac’s robust flavor and historical roots make it a favorite among cocktail aficionados. Its use of absinthe adds an intriguing layer of complexity. Despite its rich history and distinctive taste, the Sazerac is often overshadowed by more mainstream cocktails.
Corpse Reviver No. 2
The Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a revival cocktail that offers a citrusy and herbal flavor profile. Made with equal parts gin, Lillet Blanc, Cointreau, and fresh lemon juice, with a dash of absinthe, this cocktail is both refreshing and complex. The Corpse Reviver No. 2 is designed to wake up the senses and is traditionally consumed as a hangover cure. Its unique blend of ingredients creates a balanced and invigorating drink, yet it remains relatively unknown to many cocktail enthusiasts.
Dark ‘n’ Stormy
The Dark ‘n’ Stormy is a simple yet flavorful cocktail that combines dark rum and ginger beer. Served over ice with a lime wedge, this drink is perfect for those who enjoy a refreshing and slightly spicy beverage. The Dark ‘n’ Stormy’s combination of rich, dark rum and the sharp, tangy ginger beer creates a delightful contrast that is both invigorating and satisfying. Despite its simplicity and great taste, it often doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves.
Ramos Gin Fizz
The Ramos Gin Fizz is a classic New Orleans cocktail known for its frothy and velvety texture. Made with gin, lemon juice, lime juice, egg white, sugar, cream, orange flower water, and soda water, this cocktail requires vigorous shaking to achieve its signature foam. The Ramos Gin Fizz is a labor of love for bartenders, resulting in a smooth and creamy drink that is both refreshing and indulgent. Despite its unique texture and flavor, it is often overlooked in favor of more straightforward cocktails.
