As a bartender, I've seen it all. From the sweetest, most colorful drinks to the bitterest, most potent concoctions.
But there's something about a strong cocktail that just hits different. It's the perfect drink for those looking to unwind after a long day or to get the party started.
But what makes a strong cocktail? Is it the type of alcohol used? The amount of alcohol used? The mixers? The answer is all of the above.
A strong cocktail is a delicate balance of flavors and alcohol content, and when done right, it can be a thing of beauty.
Now, I know what you're thinking. "But bartender, isn't a strong cocktail just a fancy way of saying 'get me drunk?'"
And while that may be true for some, a truly great strong cocktail is so much more than that. It's a work of art that can be enjoyed sip by sip, showcasing the flavors and aromas of the ingredients used.
So, whether you're a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or just looking to try something new, join me as we explore some of the best strong cocktail recipes out there.
From classic drinks with a twist to new creations that are sure to become favorites, we'll cover it all. So sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in some of the best strong cocktails around.
1. The Last Word
"The Last Word" is a classic and strong cocktail that is perfect for those who love a tangy and balanced drink. Made with gin, chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime, this prohibition-era cocktail is not too sweet and packs a punch.
It's easy to make and perfect for parties or ringing in the New Year. Served in a coupe or martini glass, this cocktail is meant to be enjoyed slowly and savored. If you're a fan of gin-based cocktails, "The Last Word" is definitely one to try.
2. The Boating Punch Cocktail
"The Boating Punch Cocktail" is a vintage cocktail recipe that dates back to around 1917. It is a potent and strong cocktail that is perfect for sipping over a long period.
The cocktail is made with a combination of ingredients that are blended together in a shaker with ice and poured over ice in a sweet vintage glass. It packs a punch with its high alcohol content and is a great addition to any cocktail party or gathering.
3. Aperitini
Looking for a strong and refreshing cocktail that will awaken your taste buds? Look no further than the Aperitini! This modern take on the classic Aperol Spritz combines Campari, Aperol, and Tequila for a potent and delicious drink. The addition of Prosecco and fresh orange or mandarin juice adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the bitterness of the Campari.
For those who prefer smokier drinks, Mezcal can be used instead of Tequila. Garnished with a slice of orange and a sprig of rosemary, the Aperitini is a must-try for lovers of bitter Italian liqueurs like the Negroni and Americano. So why not shake up your cocktail routine and give the Aperitini a try?
4. Long Island Iced Tea
Long Island Iced Tea is a classic cocktail that packs a punch. This cocktail is not for the faint of heart, as it contains four different types of liquor. It's a refreshing and citrusy drink that is perfect for a hot summer day or a night out with friends. The combination of gin, white rum, vodka, silver tequila, and Cointreau or Triple Sec creates a complex and flavorful drink that is sure to impress.
The addition of unsweetened black iced tea gives the cocktail a unique twist and balances out the sweetness of the agave nectar. If you're looking for a strong cocktail that is both delicious and refreshing, Long Island Iced Tea is definitely worth a try.
5. Perfect Manhattan Cocktail
The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a classic drink that every whiskey lover should try. This cocktail is a combination of bourbon, vermouth, bitters, and cherry juice, garnished with cherries. It's easy to make and perfect for enjoying with friends.
Legend has it that it was invented in the 1870s by Dr. Ian Marshall at the Manhattan Club in New York City for a banquet hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill. Since then, it has become a fashionable drink and a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts. The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a strong and delicious cocktail.
6. Hurricane Cocktail
The Hurricane Cocktail is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. This cocktail is made with multiple types of rum and sweet juices, giving it a tropical and refreshing taste. It's perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or for enjoying with friends and family at a party.
The Hurricane Cocktail is a great addition to any cocktail menu and is sure to impress your guests. If you're looking for a strong cocktail that's both delicious and easy to make, the Hurricane Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
7. The Lumiere
The Lumiere is a strong cocktail that packs a punch with its complex and layered flavor profile. Gin serves as the base spirit, while St. Germain and green chartreuse add sweetness and herbal notes, respectively.
Fresh lime juice brings a bright tartness that balances out the sweetness of the St. Germain. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a strong drink without the harshness of straight liquor. The Lumiere is a unique and flavorful option for those looking to try something new and exciting.
8. The Zombie Cocktail
The Zombie Cocktail is a classic cocktail that has been around since the 1930s. This fruity and tropical cocktail is made with three types of rum, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. The blend of light, golden, and dark rum creates a perfect balance of sweetness and strength.
The cocktail is also made with a variety of fruit juices, making it a refreshing and easy-to-drink option. The Zombie Cocktail is perfect for those who want to enjoy a strong cocktail that is also packed with flavor. If you're looking for a party in a glass, the Zombie Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
9. Yellow Hammer Slammer
The Yellow Hammer Slammer is a strong cocktail that is perfect for tailgate parties. This drink is a combination of rum, vodka, and amaretto mixed with pineapple and orange juice. The best part about this cocktail is that you won't taste the booze, but it is definitely there.
It's a great drink to have while watching football with friends, and it's easy to make by the pitcher. The Yellow Hammer Slammer is just one of the many tailgate cocktails that you can try. So, if you're looking for a fun and festive drink to enjoy while tailgating, give the Yellow Hammer Slammer a try!
10. Lemon Drop Cocktail
The Lemon Drop Cocktail is a classic drink that has stood the test of time. It is a sweet and tart cocktail that is perfect for a ladies' night or after-dinner drink. This cocktail is a riff on a classic martini and is perfect for those who want a strong drink but don't have a taste for alcohol.
The combination of Triple Sec, vodka, and fresh lemon juice creates a perfect balance of flavors that is sure to impress. The sugared rim adds a fun and playful touch to the drink, making it perfect for sipping on with friends. If you're looking for a refreshing and strong cocktail to enjoy this summer, the Lemon Drop Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
11. Elderflower Marga-Tini
The Elderflower Marga-Tini is a unique and refreshing cocktail that combines the flavors of a Margarita and a Martini with a twist of elderflower liqueur.
It has a strong and bold flavor that is balanced by the sweetness of the elderflower liqueur. The cocktail is perfect for a night out with friends or a special occasion and is sure to impress anyone who loves a good strong drink.
12. Paper Plane Cocktail
The Paper Plane Cocktail is a strong and deliciously addictive cocktail that is sure to impress even non-whiskey drinkers. Its name is inspired by the M.I.A track “Paper Planes” and it is made with equal parts of Bourbon, Amaro, and Aperol, creating a perfect balance between bitter, sour, and herbal notes.
Amaro Nanio liquor, made using grappa infused with herbs, fruits, and botanicals, adds a unique flavor profile to the cocktail. Aperol, a sweet Italian amaro or bitter, contributes a complex orange taste. The Paper Plane Cocktail is a must-try for those who appreciate the unique flavors of these liquors. Overall, this cocktail is a great addition to any strong cocktail recipe collection.
13. Hazelnut Hot Toddy
The Hazelnut Hot Toddy is a comforting cocktail perfect for cold winter nights. It's a twist on the classic hot toddy with a lovely hazelnut flavor from Frangelico. The combination of hazelnut and bourbon creates a strong and warming drink.
The aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and bourbon is sure to fill your house with a delightful Christmas smell. If you're a fan of hot toddies, this is definitely a recipe you'll want to try.
14. AMF Drink
The AMF Drink, also known as Adios Motherfucker, is a bold and boozy cocktail that is not for the faint of heart. This neon blue drink is a blend of five different liquors, sweet and sour mix, and soda, making it a potent concoction that is sure to get the party started.
The name of the cocktail itself suggests that it is not to be taken lightly, and it is easy to see why. While the exact origins of the AMF Drink are not clear, it has become a popular choice for those who want to let loose and have a good time. If you're looking for a strong cocktail that packs a punch, the AMF Drink is definitely worth a try.
15. Apple Pie Moonshine
The Apple Pie Moonshine is a homemade cocktail that tastes like a boozy apple pie. It's strong, but not overly decadent, making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy a cocktail without going overboard.
It's easy to make and can be stored in a jar for future use. If you're looking for a delicious and strong cocktail that will impress your friends, then the Apple Pie Moonshine is definitely worth a try.
16. Vesper Martini
The Vesper Martini is a classic cocktail made famous by James Bond. It's a twist on a classic martini, using gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc or Cocchi Americano.
The combination of these high-quality spirits creates a strong, boozy sip that is both beautiful and delicious. The garnish of a lemon peel adds a finishing touch to the drink, enhancing its flavor and aroma.
17. Manhattan
If you're a fan of classic cocktails, the Manhattan is a must-try. This timeless drink is made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, resulting in a strong and flavorful beverage with hints of orange and cherry. While rye is the traditional whiskey used, you can also opt for bourbon or Canadian whiskey depending on your preference.
The Manhattan is a versatile drink that can be served straight up or on the rocks, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a sophisticated aperitif or a strong cocktail to sip on with friends, the Manhattan is a great choice. Don't miss out on this essential whiskey cocktail that has stood the test of time.
18. Grapefruit Champagne Cocktail
The Grapefruit Champagne Cocktail is a tart and fizzy drink with a strong kick of vodka. It's perfect for a fun and girly night out or a special occasion like Valentine's Day.
The heart-shaped ice cubes and cocktail spears add a touch of fun to the drink. The cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a strong and flavorful cocktail.
19. Limoncello Cocktail
The Limoncello Cocktail is a refreshing and strong drink that will transport you to a sunny paradise with just one sip. Made with limoncello, basil, and fresh lime juice, this cocktail is sweet, citrusy, and dangerously easy to drink.
The sugar rim adds a little texture and sweetness to the drink, making it even more irresistible. The Limoncello Cocktail is perfect for those who love clear liquors and want to try something new. If you're looking for a refreshing and strong cocktail to enjoy on a warm summer day, the Limoncello Cocktail is a must-try.
20. Strawberry Negroni
The Strawberry Negroni is a modern twist on the classic Negroni cocktail, perfect for those who love a strong and bitter drink with a fruity edge. Infused with fresh summer strawberries, this cocktail features strawberry-infused Campari and gin, and sweet vermouth to add a summery berry flavor to the Negroni.
The history of the Negroni dates back to the early 1900s, and this cocktail has been a favorite of bartenders around the world for years. The Strawberry Negroni is a delightful combination of sweet and bitter, with a crisp hint of botanicals from the gin and Campari. If you're looking for a fresh new take on the classic Negroni, give the Strawberry Negroni a try!
21. Raspberry Martini
The Raspberry Martini is a deliciously sweet and strong cocktail that is perfect for the holidays. Made from homemade syrup for the most powerful raspberry flavor, this cocktail is easy to make in a large batch for guests or just a couple at a time.
It is a fruity cocktail that is not just for the summertime, and it is sure to be a hit with everyone. If you are a fan of martini cocktails, the Raspberry Martini is a must-try.
22. The Dreamcatcher
"The Dreamcatcher" is a smooth and easy-drinking blanco tequila cocktail with a balanced flavor profile. With just four ingredients, it's a testament to the power of simplicity.
The Green Chartreuse adds sweetness to the herbal and spicy tequila, while lime and grapefruit juices round out the flavors. This cocktail is almost too drinkable, making it perfect for those who want a strong but smooth drink.
23. Elderflower Cocktail With Grapefruit
The Elderflower Cocktail with Grapefruit is a refreshing and elegant drink that is perfect for any celebration. Made with elderflower cordial and vodka, this fizzy cocktail packs a punch with its two different types of alcohol. The addition of grapefruit juice gives it a tangy twist, while the elderflower cordial adds a sweet and floral note.
This cocktail is perfect for evening celebrations, but can also be modified for brunch by omitting the vodka and adding more freshly squeezed juice. The recipe also includes a mocktail version for those who prefer a non-alcoholic option. Overall, the Elderflower Cocktail with Grapefruit is a must-try for anyone who loves a strong and sophisticated cocktail with a unique twist.
24. Mai Tai
The Mai Tai is a classic tiki cocktail that transports you to a tropical island with its refreshing citrus and rum flavors. It's a strong cocktail that's not overly sweet, making it perfect for those who prefer a bold taste. The drink was invented by Victor J. Bergeron at his restaurant, Trader Vic's, in Oakland, California in 1944.
While there are variations of the recipe, the classic Mai Tai includes rum, lime juice, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, and a splash of simple syrup. The drink is garnished with a lime wheel, mint sprig, and a maraschino cherry, and can be served in a variety of glasses. If you're looking for a cocktail that will transport you to a tropical paradise, the Mai Tai is a must-try.
25. Classic Mai Tai Cocktail
The Classic Mai Tai Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves tiki cocktails. This drink is a perfect blend of tangy lime, almond liqueur, and two types of rum, making it a strong and flavorful choice.
Originally created in 1944, this cocktail has stood the test of time and remains a favorite among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike. The Mai Tai is a perfect choice for a tropical night in, or to pair with a delicious dinner. If you're looking for a strong and tasty cocktail, the Classic Mai Tai is definitely worth a try.
26. French 77 Cocktail
The French 77 Cocktail is a floral and festive variation of the classic French 75. This cocktail is made with elderflower liqueur, gin, and sparkling wine, making it a perfect drink for celebrations or brunch. The use of St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur adds a unique and delightful floral note to the cocktail, while the gin and sparkling wine balance it out perfectly.
It is a strong cocktail, but the sweetness from the elderflower liqueur eliminates the need for simple syrup. This cocktail is best served chilled in vintage glassware, making it a great addition to any party. If you're a fan of floral cocktails, the French 77 is a must-try.
27. Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini is a strong cocktail made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and espresso. It's perfect for coffee lovers who want a little pick-me-up.
The combination of the caffeine from the espresso and the kick from the vodka makes for a potent drink that is sure to wake you up. The rimming sugar, made with sugar and instant espresso powder, adds a nice touch of sweetness and bitterness to each sip.
