As a bartender, I've seen a lot of drinks come and go. From the classic old fashioned to the trendy Moscow mule, I've mixed them all.
However, there's a new trend that's been taking the cocktail world by storm: aesthetic cocktails.
Aesthetic cocktails are more than just a drink – they're an experience. These drinks are all about the visuals, from the vibrant colors to the unique garnishes.
When you order an aesthetic cocktail, you're not just getting a drink, you're getting a work of art.
But, aesthetics aren't everything. These cocktails also need to taste great. No one wants to order a drink just because it looks pretty, only to find out it tastes like cough syrup.
That's why I've scoured the internet and tested countless recipes to bring you the best aesthetic cocktail recipes out there.
Whether you're looking for a drink to impress your friends at a party, or just want to treat yourself to a fancy night in, these cocktails are sure to do the trick.
So, sit back, relax, and let's dive into the world of aesthetic cocktails.
1. Aviation Cocktail
The Aviation Cocktail is a true gem in the world of aesthetic cocktails. With its unique violet hue and smooth, flowery taste, it's a drink that's sure to impress. The key ingredient, Luxardo maraschino liqueur, adds a subtle cherry finish that perfectly balances the assertive yet sweet flavors.
This cocktail has a rich history, having been created by Hugo Ensslin, head bartender at the Hotel Wallick in New York City, and first published in his 1916 Recipes for Mixed Drinks cocktail book. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or just looking for something new to try, the Aviation is a must-try. Give it a shot and see if you sink or soar.
2. Pornstar Martini
The Pornstar Martini is a visually exciting cocktail with a frothy top and a floating half a passion fruit. It's sweet and sour, with a fruity taste from passion fruit and liqueur, and a subtle sour taste from fresh lime juice.
The cocktail quickly became a modern-day classic made by bartenders all over the world. If you're looking for a delicious and impressive cocktail for a special occasion, the Pornstar Martini is definitely worth trying.
3. Smoke and Bramble Cocktail
The Smoke and Bramble Cocktail is a perfect choice for those who are looking for a moody and smoky cocktail with a subtle spooky vibe. The cocktail features a combination of mezcal, spiced black tea, dark rum, and blackberry liqueur, resulting in a smoky-sweet flavor that is sure to impress.
The addition of dry ice adds a fun Halloween-y effect to the drink, making it a perfect choice for a Halloween party or any other occasion where you want to add a touch of drama to your cocktail. Overall, the Smoke and Bramble Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves complex, smoky cocktails with a touch of sweetness.
4. Tarragon Carrot Shrub
The Tarragon Carrot Shrub is a unique and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is a perfect blend of vodka, gin, and bubbles, mixed with a homemade carrot shrub and fresh tarragon from the garden. The shrub adds a tangy and sweet flavor to the drink, while the tarragon adds a subtle herbaceous note.
The best part about this cocktail is that it can be made non-alcoholic by using sparkling water instead of alcohol. The Tarragon Carrot Shrub is a must-try for anyone looking for a new and exciting cocktail to add to their repertoire.
5. Pink Elephant Cocktail
The Pink Elephant Cocktail is a playful and whimsical drink with a vodka base, Fentimans' rose lemonade, and a twist of lime juice.
The baby pink color of the cocktail makes it aesthetically pleasing, and it can be served in a big pitcher over ice, making it perfect for parties. The smooth and creamy flavor of Colwith Farm Distillery's Aval Dor Vodka makes this cocktail a real treat for the taste buds.
6. Cosmopolitan Cocktail
If you're looking for a cocktail that's both aesthetically pleasing and delicious, the Cosmopolitan Cocktail is a must-try. This vibrant pink drink is perfect for parties and gatherings, and is surprisingly low in calories and sugar. Made with high-quality vodka, fresh-squeezed lime juice, sweet cranberry juice, and Cointreau, the Cosmopolitan Cocktail has a complex flavor profile that's both sweet and tart.
It's no wonder this cocktail has been a favorite of up-and-coming professionals in Manhattan and beyond. So, whether you're hosting a tropical party, a girls' gathering, or a backyard carnival, the Cosmopolitan Cocktail is the perfect drink to serve.
7. Heavenly Lemonade
If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail for your next gathering, look no further than the Heavenly Lemonade. This mimosa-inspired drink swaps out orange juice for lemonade, creating a tangy and bubbly beverage that's perfect for springtime sipping. The recipe calls for cheap champagne or brut, which balances out the sweetness of the lemonade.
You can use any kind of lemonade you like, from classic to strawberry to raspberry. Add some fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor. With only two ingredients, this cocktail is a breeze to make and is sure to impress your guests. Give it a try and see why it's a crowd-pleaser at any event.
8. Trans Pride Cocktail
The Trans Pride Cocktail is a colorful drink that represents the transgender community with its blue, white, and pink colors. It's a twist on the Sleeping Beauty cocktail, made with Hpnotiq, Kinky Pink Liqueur, vodka, and 7Up. If you can't find the exact ingredients, the article suggests making three different cocktails in blue, white, and pink.
Each cocktail can be garnished with a sugar or salt rim and a lime wedge or orange twist. Overall, the Trans Pride Cocktail is a fun and colorful drink that is perfect for celebrating Pride Month and showing support for the transgender community.
9. Mojito
The Mojito is a classic cocktail that originated in Havana, Cuba. This refreshing drink is made with white rum, fresh mint, lime juice, and a splash of club soda. The key to making the perfect Mojito is using a homemade simple syrup infused with mint and lime.
This elevates the flavor to a whole new level and makes it a showstopping cocktail. The Mojito is perfect for a casual gathering with friends or as a slow sipper at the end of the day. If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail, the Mojito is definitely worth trying.
10. Pomegranate Maple Fizz Cocktail
The Pomegranate Maple Fizz Cocktail is a perfect drink to celebrate the holiday season. It is a sweet and fizzy cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. The base of the cocktail is homemade pomegranate juice, which is then sweetened with maple syrup. The addition of vodka (optional) and Indian tonic water gives it a unique flavor that is both refreshing and addictive.
The pink color of the cocktail makes it a beautiful addition to any party. What's great about this cocktail is that it can also be made into a mocktail, so non-drinkers can enjoy it too. If you're looking for a festive and delicious cocktail to serve at your next party, the Pomegranate Maple Fizz Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
11. Grapefruit Vodka Cocktail
The Grapefruit Vodka Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that's perfect for those hot summer days. This cocktail combines the sour and bitter flavors of grapefruit with the sweetness of coconut sugar, resulting in a perfectly balanced drink that's not too sweet nor too bitter.
The addition of vodka gives it a little kick, making it a great choice for those who prefer a stronger drink. If you're not a fan of grapefruit, don't worry – there are plenty of other options out there, like the popular Cotton Candy Cocktail. But for those who are looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make drink, the Grapefruit Vodka Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
12. Gordon's Pink Gin and Tonic
The Gordon's Pink Gin and Tonic is a modern twist on the classic Gin and Tonic with a beautiful pink hue that's sure to impress. It's perfect for a summer party or girls' night in, and its stunning appearance is Instagram-worthy.
The cocktail is made with Gordon's Pink Gin and your choice of tonic water, and you can add a splash of lemonade for a sweeter flavor.
13. Rhubarb and Honey Pisco Sour
The Rhubarb and Honey Pisco Sour is a refreshing and unique twist on the classic Peruvian cocktail. Made with Peruvian Pisco, lime juice, and a homemade rhubarb and honey simple syrup, this cocktail has a lovely blush hue and a delightful blend of flavors. The addition of egg white gives it a frothy texture and a beautiful foam cap.
While some may be hesitant about the use of raw egg whites in cocktails, the combination of citrus and alcohol act as sterilizers, making it safe to consume. If you're looking for a summery cocktail that's both aesthetically pleasing and delicious, the Rhubarb and Honey Pisco Sour is definitely worth trying.
14. Blackberry Bramble Cocktail
The Blackberry Bramble Cocktail is a perfect twist on the classic Bramble, with a hit of juicy spiced syrup that pumps up the comfort level. This winter bramble is perfect for autumn and winter when it's chilly outside. The spiced syrup, made with cinnamon and star anise, adds just the right amount of sweet, aromatic spice to the overall taste of the cocktail.
The premium gin used in this cocktail, Gutsy Monkey, is created with the cooler months of the year in mind, and it blends perfectly with the blackberry liqueur and spiced syrup. This cocktail is a must-try for those who enjoy a fruity and spiced drink during the colder months.
15. Kiwi Margaritas
If you're looking for a refreshing and aesthetically pleasing cocktail, look no further than the Kiwi Margarita. This cocktail features a kiwi simple syrup that adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the classic margarita.
The addition of kiwi berries, which are small and poppable, make for a fun and playful garnish. And if you're not a fan of the seeds, don't worry, they can easily be strained out. This cocktail is perfect for Cinco de Mayo or any summer gathering. Trust us, you'll want to try this one out.
