Business Insider asked bartenders to provide insights on beverages that should make more frequent appearances on the menu.
If you’re a fan of vermouth, consider trying a gin 50/50 martini, a boulevardier, or a Martinez as delightful choices.
The classic daiquiri, in its original form, truly merits more recognition and appreciation.
As cocktails continue to rise in price, ensuring satisfaction with your drink selection from the bar is essential. While it’s tempting to stick with reliable favorites like a martini or margarita, exploring new options can offer a refreshing change.
Business Insider reached out to bartenders to find out which underrated drinks they believe customers should choose more frequently. Here’s what they shared.
A sloe-gin fizz is recommended as a must-try beverage due to its vibrant and refreshing flavor.
Ben Pozar, the head bartender at Hotel Vin, Autograph Collection, mentioned that he believes more patrons should consider ordering a sloe-gin fizz for its bright and tasty profile.
This delightful cocktail combines gin with lemon, simple syrup, and a splash of soda water.
“I can’t understand why people shy away from them in bars,” Pozar mentioned.
He continued, noting their effectiveness as an aperitif, a delightful alcoholic beverage that enhances the appetite before meals.
Lemon-drop cocktails offer considerable versatility yet are not frequently ordered.
For those searching for an elevated drink choice, bartender Madison Weeks from 1861 Distillery advocates for the lemon-drop cocktail.
“The lemon drop has much to offer beyond its traditional vodka foundation. For those who are well-versed in cocktails, adding just a hint of elderflower liqueur or fresh herbs like thyme can elevate the Lemon Drop into a more intricate and sophisticated beverage,” Weeks shared with us. “These minor adjustments enhance the complexity and harmony of the sweet-tart flavor profile.”
A gin 50/50 martini allows vermouth to take center stage.
Evan Hawkins, proprietor and bartender at Romeo’s, suggests opting for a gin 50/50 martini, which features equal portions of gin and dry vermouth.
“It seems that many have been conditioned to steer clear of vermouth in their martini orders due to its long-standing bad reputation, but I believe it’s the way to go. A twist of lemon and an olive round out this delightful, snack-like concoction,” Hawkins stated.
A true classic daiquiri, when made correctly, is a harmonious blend of flavors that creates a delightful experience.
A classic daiquiri should not be mistaken for the types churned out by a frozen-drink machine.
“In its authentic form, it’s as pristine as fresh snow. A quality white rum, or even an Agricole, combined with fresh citrus and a precisely balanced simple syrup creates the perfect classic drink and truly exemplifies the cocktail,” Hawkins shared.
He mentioned to BI that he frequently observes people in the bartending scene ordering a classic daiquiri but hopes that more patrons will recognize its value too.
Palomas often take a backseat to margaritas.
While margaritas are typically regarded as the default choice for many, Sanwar Mal Khokhar, a skilled mixologist at Sanjh Restaurant & Bar, believes that the popularity of margaritas leads to other tequila-based cocktails being neglected.
“The paloma’s delightful mix of tequila, grapefruit, and lime makes it a fantastic, lesser-known alternative. It’s light, zesty, and perfectly balanced, making it a flexible drink that pairs wonderfully with grilled seafood or spicy tacos,” Khokhar explained.
For every whiskey lover, the boulevardier is a must-try cocktail.
Khokhar suggests forgoing the traditional old-fashioned in favor of a boulevardier.
“For those who enjoy whiskey but are seeking a drink that offers more complexity, the boulevardier, which combines bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth, is essential,” he mentioned.
Khokhar pointed out to BI that the boulevardier often goes unnoticed. Nevertheless, its bittersweet nuances make it distinct among other cocktails.
Consider sampling a Martinez rather than opting for a martini.
Clay Sears, the chief bartender at Virginia’s, expressed his desire for the Martinez to receive the recognition it deserves instead of being eclipsed by the martini.
Originating in the late 1800s, the Martinez is crafted from gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and bitters.
“This precursor to the martini holds a significant place in cocktail history. The combination of orange bitters and maraschino enhances the traditional gin and vermouth blend, resulting in a richer, more intricate finish,” Sears shared with BI. “It’s strong and spirited, yet maintains a gentle smoothness that invites you to have another sip.”
The New York whiskey sour deserves increased recognition for its beautiful appearance and intricate flavor profile.
Richie Mello III, the lead mixologist and tasting room supervisor at Heritage Distilling Company, shared with BI that the New York whiskey sour offers an exciting variation of the classic cocktail.
“This is a traditional whiskey sour — just whiskey, citrus, and simple syrup — but topped off with a float of red wine. The addition of wine not only enhances the visual appeal with its striking color but also enriches the cocktail’s flavor profile, making it both stunning and beautifully intricate,” he explained to BI.
He also mentioned that the interplay between the citrus and red wine offers a delightful experience with each sip.
For more details, you can explore the original article on Business Insider.