When first entering the world of cocktails, it can be hard to find your perfect drink. With an infinite number of possible beverages, each having its own unique name that doesn’t describe the flavor or ingredients the drink contains, mixology can feel like more of an “ology” than it actually is.
However, you don’t need to suffer to find something that suits you. Think of your favorite non-alcoholic drink, use that as your base and make it into a cocktail! Here are some cocktail concepts that transform an everyday drink into your perfect nightcap:
If you’re a fan of sweet tea, try The Southern Hospitality, a sweet tea whiskey sour:
- 4 oz of black tea
- 2 oz of bourbon
- ¾ oz of fresh-squeezed lemon juice
- ¾ oz of simple syrup
- Stir and strain into a mason jar
- Add ice and top with a peach slice
If you’re more of a Coca-Cola fan, make into a sweet and smoky nighttime treat, the Smoked Cherry Batanga:
- Rim a Collins glass with salt and add:
- 2 oz of mezcal
- ½ oz of fresh-squeezed lime juice
- 2 dashes of aromatic bitters
- 1 bar spoon of maraschino cherry syrup
- Add cola until the glass is half full, then top with ice
- Garnish with a lime wheel cherry skewer
Finally, The Botanist’s Boba cocktail perfectly pairs sweet and floral flavors, making it a great drink for any boba tea fan:
- In a wine glass, add:
- 2 oz of gin
- 4 oz of taro boba tea
- 2 oz coconut milk
- ½ oz of lavender syrup
- A handful of boba pearls
- Add ice, stir and garnish with a mint sprig