The world of mixology is an ever-evolving landscape, with new flavors and trends emerging every year. At the heart of this innovation lies the tart cocktail.
Defined by its sharp, acidic taste, this type of cocktail has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks in part to the growing interest in sour beers and kombucha.
What makes a tart cocktail so appealing is its ability to balance sweetness and acidity in perfect harmony.
Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or a newbie looking to try something new, there's no denying the allure of a well-crafted sour cocktail. But with so many ingredients and techniques to choose from, where do you even begin?
In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best tart cocktail recipes out there. From classics like the margarita and the daiquiri to more modern concoctions like the grapefruit and thyme sour, we'll cover all the bases.
Whether you prefer your drinks shaken or stirred, with a salted rim or a sprig of rosemary, there's sure to be a recipe that suits your tastes.
So grab your shaker, your favorite spirits, and a few limes, and let's dive into the wonderful world of tart cocktails!
1. Tart Cherry Fizz
If you're a fan of tart flavors, you won't want to miss out on the Tart Cherry Fizz cocktail. This bubbly and fruity drink is perfect for summer sipping and can be easily scaled up for a party. With only four ingredients, it's also incredibly simple to make. The tart cherry juice blends seamlessly with the vodka, and the addition of club soda gives it a friendly tickle with every sip.
The red color of the cocktail makes it perfect for a patriotic spread, and the all-natural ingredients mean even better flavor. So grab a handful of red, white, and blue straws and indulge in this oh-so-juicy cocktail. Trust us, it's tough to resist having more than one.
2. Strawberry Lemonade Whiskey Sour
The Strawberry Lemonade Whiskey Sour is a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors with a hint of bourbon whiskey kick. This cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make summer drink that will surely impress your guests. The combination of strawberries, lemon juice, and sugar creates a delightful fruity taste, while the bourbon whiskey adds a distinct flavor that balances the sweetness.
This cocktail is perfect for those who are not typically whiskey drinkers but are looking for something new to try. The Strawberry Lemonade Whiskey Sour is a must-try cocktail that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
3. Grapefruit Rosemary Rum Punch
The Grapefruit Rosemary Rum Punch is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. The combination of tart grapefruit juice, fragrant rosemary, and sweet honey or simple syrup creates a well-balanced drink that is sure to impress your guests. The addition of rum gives the cocktail a nice kick, while the bubbles from club soda or sparkling water add a fun fizziness.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for parties. The rosemary garnish adds a beautiful touch to the drink and enhances the aroma. Overall, the Grapefruit Rosemary Rum Punch is a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves a tart and herbal drink.
4. Classic Greyhound Cocktail
The Classic Greyhound Cocktail is a refreshing and tart drink made with grapefruit juice and gin or vodka. It's perfect for sipping at happy hour or as a brunch drink. Originally created in the 1900s, it's named after the bus company of the same name.
The cocktail can be enjoyed in any season and can be made even more interesting by adding a rosemary branch or using winter citrus. Overall, it's a must-try for anyone who loves a refreshing and tangy drink.
5. South African Milk Tart Cocktail
The South African Milk Tart Cocktail is a creamy and comforting cocktail made with vodka, condensed and evaporated milk, and cinnamon.
It has a cozy aroma that will remind you of the famous South African milk tart dessert. This cocktail is a great alternative to eggnog and is easy to prepare. It's a unique and delicious cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
6. Classic Bourbon Smash
The Classic Bourbon Smash is a refreshing and sweet-tart cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with a generous amount of fresh mint and lemon, this cocktail is simple in concept but complex in flavor. The smoky-sweet flavor of maple syrup enhances the taste of bourbon, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy natural sweeteners.
The cocktail is served in a rocks glass, making it a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a classic cocktail. If you're looking for a tart cocktail that is easy to make and delicious to drink, then the Classic Bourbon Smash is definitely worth a try.
7. Lemon Drop Cocktail
The Lemon Drop Cocktail is a sweet and tart concoction that is perfect for a ladies’ night or after-dinner cocktails. This classic lemon cocktail recipe is made with Triple Sec, vodka, and fresh lemon juice. It has a perfect sweet-pucker effect, especially when you add the sugared rim.
This dessert cocktail is a bit too sweet to pair with a meal, but it is perfect for sipping on with friends – especially in the summer. If you are looking for a refreshing and tangy cocktail, the Lemon Drop Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
8. Sweet Tart Cocktail
The Sweet Tart Cocktail is a refreshing blend of Chambord and Gin that hits you in waves, much like the classic candy treat it is named after. The sour note from the lime is followed by a hint of sweetness from the raspberry liqueur, leaving you wanting more.
The bright orange color of the drink makes it a perfect signature party drink for any occasion. If you're looking for a fun and delicious cocktail to try, the Sweet Tart Cocktail is definitely worth a taste!
9. Salty Dog
If you're on the hunt for a sophisticated and refreshing tart cocktail, look no further than the Salty Dog. This grapefruit-based drink is a simple yet delicious combination of vodka and grapefruit juice served over ice with a salted rim.
The addition of salt adds an extra dimension of flavor to the already tangy grapefruit, making it the perfect balance of sweet and salty. Whether you're sipping it on a warm spring day or enjoying it at a cocktail party, the Salty Dog is sure to impress. Give it a try and see for yourself why it's a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
10. Blueberry Thyme Crush Cocktail
The Blueberry Thyme Crush Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make summer drink that combines the tartness of blueberries with the subtle aroma of thyme. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a fruity and slightly herbal taste in their drinks.
What sets this cocktail apart is that it requires no shaker or strainer, making it a quick and simple option for those who want to enjoy a delicious drink without the hassle. The recipe can be easily modified to be non-alcoholic, making it a great option for those who prefer not to drink. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to try this summer, the Blueberry Thyme Crush Cocktail is definitely worth a taste.
11. Lemon Drop Shot
The Lemon Drop Shot is a classic cocktail that is perfect for those who love a tart and slightly sweet drink. Made with only three ingredients – lemon juice, vodka, and simple syrup – this shot is easy to make and goes down smooth. The lemon juice helps to cut the sweetness of the simple syrup, making it a perfectly balanced drink.
The sugar rim adds an extra touch of sweetness and the lemon slice garnish adds a pop of color. This cocktail is a great addition to any party or gathering, and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. If you're looking for a refreshing and tangy drink, the Lemon Drop Shot is definitely worth a try.
12. Hibiscus Paloma
The Hibiscus Paloma is a refreshing and tart cocktail that is perfect for hot summer days. Made with tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and hibiscus simple syrup, this cocktail is a great alternative to the traditional Paloma.
The sweet and floral notes of the hibiscus syrup perfectly balance the tartness of the grapefruit and lime juices, resulting in a light and refreshing drink that is perfect for sipping on a warm day. Whether you're lounging by the pool or enjoying a BBQ with friends, the Hibiscus Paloma is sure to be a hit. So why not mix up a batch today and experience the delicious flavors for yourself?
13. Rhubarb Rosewater Margarita
The Rhubarb Rosewater Margarita is a refreshing and unique cocktail that is perfect for springtime sipping. Made with homemade rhubarb syrup, lemon juice, and a splash of rosewater, this margarita has a sweet-tart flavor with a hint of exotic floral finish.
It's a perfect cocktail to enjoy on Cinco de Mayo or any other occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and creative drink. The pretty, rosey color of the cocktail is sure to catch everyone's eye, and the taste will keep them coming back for more. So, if you're looking for a tart cocktail that's a little bit different from the usual, give the Rhubarb Rosewater Margarita a try.
14. Ocean Water Cocktail
The Ocean Water Cocktail is a tart and fruity drink that will transport you straight to the beach. With the aroma of coconut rum and pineapple juice, and the vibrant blue color of the blue curaçao, this cocktail is perfect for a summer afternoon by the sea or for recreating a beachy atmosphere in your own backyard.
The sugar-rimmed glass adds a fun and playful element to the drink, making it a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.
15. Blueberry Gin Sour Cocktail
The Blueberry Gin Sour Cocktail is a refreshing and balanced drink that combines the sweetness of blueberries with the tartness of lemon juice. The addition of gin gives it a sophisticated twist, making it a perfect choice for those who love gin-based cocktails.
The foam created by the egg white adds a velvety texture to the drink, making it even more enjoyable. This cocktail is a great choice for those who want to try something new and exciting, and it's perfect for any occasion.
16. Classic Singapore Sling
The Classic Singapore Sling is a fruity and refreshing gin cocktail that was invented in Singapore around 1915. It is essentially a single serving punch that combines a whopping 8 ingredients to create a complex flavor that is sweet, tart, bitter, fruity, and bubbly all at once. This cocktail is not for the faint of heart, as it requires a few specialty ingredients such as cherry liqueur, Benedictine, and grenadine.
However, for adventurous drinkers, the Classic Singapore Sling is a must-try. It's perfect for sipping on a warm summer day or impressing guests at a party. The combination of fruity, sweet tart and bubbly is intriguingly complex and just plain fun. If you're looking for a unique and impressive cocktail, the Classic Singapore Sling is definitely worth a try.
17. Hibiscus Mojito
The Hibiscus Mojito is a refreshing and tangy cocktail that is perfect for spring and summer sipping. This all-natural cocktail combines the flavors of hibiscus syrup, mint, lime, and rum to create a tropical and floral drink that will transport you to a faraway island.
The addition of club soda gives it a fizzy kick that makes it perfect for a hot summer day. This cocktail is not just for girls, as it is not overly sweet and has a boozy kick that will satisfy any palate. If you're looking for a tart cocktail that is both refreshing and unique, the Hibiscus Mojito is definitely worth a try.
18. Lemon Cake Cocktail
The Lemon Cake Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a tart and refreshing drink. Made with limoncello and rumchata, this cocktail has a smooth and creamy texture that perfectly complements the tartness of the lemon. The natural cinnamon flavors in the rumchata add a subtle twist to the classic lemon cake flavor, making it a unique and delicious dessert drink.
Served in a martini glass or a stemless glass with a slice of lemon and a sprinkle of cinnamon, this cocktail is as visually appealing as it is delicious. If you're looking for a simple yet impressive cocktail to serve at your next gathering, the Lemon Cake Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
19. Apple Chai Whiskey Sour
The Apple Chai Whiskey Sour is a perfect cocktail for those who love a sweet and sour flavor. This cocktail is a twist on the classic whiskey sour, with the addition of apple and chai tea flavors. The ingredients are simple and the cocktail is easy to make with a good cocktail shaker. The frothy top and silky smooth finish are achieved with the addition of egg whites.
The cocktail is strong, but the flavor is so nice that you won’t feel like it's off-puttingly strong. The Kentucky maple whiskey used in this recipe adds a unique flavor to the cocktail. If you're looking for a great cocktail to serve at your next holiday party, the Apple Chai Whiskey Sour is definitely worth trying.
20. Blueberry Mojito
The Blueberry Mojito is a refreshing summer cocktail that combines the sweetness of blueberries with the tartness of limes and a splash of rum. This cocktail is perfect for lazy afternoons and will transport you to a tropical island with its cool and refreshing taste.
The blueberries are in season during this time of year, making it easy to find them at farmers markets and supermarkets. This cocktail is easy to make and goes down easy, so you might want to double the recipe. If you love bright colored cocktails, this one is a must-try. Stay tuned for more exciting Tart Cocktail recipes to add to your collection.
21. Raspberry Vodka Mojito
The Raspberry Vodka Mojito is a refreshing and fruity cocktail that is perfect for summer evenings. Made with Pinnacle Vodka, fresh raspberries, mint, and lime, this cocktail is bursting with flavor and color. The sweetness of the raspberries is balanced out by the tartness of the lime, making for a perfectly balanced drink.
The addition of mint adds a refreshing and cooling element to the cocktail, making it a great choice for hot summer nights. Overall, the Raspberry Vodka Mojito is a must-try for anyone who loves fruity and refreshing cocktails.
22. Cosmopolitan Cocktail
The Cosmopolitan Cocktail is a classic and popular martini drink that is loved by both men and women. This fresh and bright cocktail has the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. The recipe includes high-quality vodka, orange liqueur, fresh lime juice, and a splash of cranberry juice.
It is a classy and pretty cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. The lime garnish adds a professional touch to the drink. If you are looking for a fun and festive cocktail, the Cosmopolitan is definitely worth trying.
23. Rum Sour
The Rum Sour is a refreshing and tart cocktail that is perfect for those who love a sweet and tangy drink. Made with dark rum, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and an egg white, this cocktail is a twist on the classic whiskey sour. The addition of the egg white creates a frothy texture that is both luxurious and satisfying.
While the recipe calls for dark rum, you can experiment with different types of rum to find your perfect blend. The Rum Sour is a simple yet elegant cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a delicious drink to enjoy at home, the Rum Sour is a must-try.
24. Limoncello Gin Collins
The Limoncello Gin Collins is a perfect cocktail for a hot day. This fizzy and refreshing drink is a twist on the classic Tom Collins, with a prominent lemon flavor and a hint of minty sweetness. The addition of limoncello gives this cocktail a unique and delicious taste.
The drink is easy to make and can be garnished with fresh mint and lemon wheels. If you're a fan of gin cocktails, this one is definitely worth trying. It's a great option for parties or a relaxing evening at home. Overall, the Limoncello Gin Collins is a must-try for anyone looking for a tasty and refreshing tart cocktail.
25. Long Beach Iced Tea
The Long Beach Iced Tea is a refreshing and tart cocktail that uses cranberry juice for a fruity twist. It contains three and a half ounces of straight alcohol, making it a stealth drink that can sneak up on you.
The main flavors come from triple sec, cranberry juice, and lemon juice, which give it a citrusy and herbal taste. It is best paired with heavy foods like burgers, fries, chicken, or fish meals.
26. Cosmo
The Cosmo is a classic cocktail that is both sweet and tart. It's made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice, and it's the perfect mix of flavors. The cranberry juice gives it a tart flavor, while the vodka and triple sec add a bit of sweetness.
The lime juice adds a nice citrusy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients. It's a delicious drink that is easy to make and always a hit at parties.
27. Pink Lady Cocktail
The Pink Lady Cocktail is a delightful and refreshing drink that is perfect for Valentine's Day or a girls' night out. This cocktail is a blend of gin, applejack, lemon juice, and grenadine, which creates a sweet and tart taste. The frothy texture of the drink adds to its appeal, making it a fun and playful option for any occasion.
The use of egg whites in the recipe may seem daunting, but the addition of lemon juice helps to reduce the risks associated with consuming raw egg whites. This cocktail is a classic that is sure to impress your guests with its beautiful pink hue and delicious taste. If you're looking for a fun and tasty tart cocktail, the Pink Lady is definitely worth a try.
28. Cherry Gin Rickey
The Cherry Gin Rickey is a perfect summer cocktail that is both tart and fizzy. Made with premium gin and a cherry syrup, this cocktail is highly aromatic and has an added layer of complexity thanks to the cherries.
It's a great choice for anyone looking for a handcrafted cocktail that's not too sweet, but still packs a punch. Whether you're hosting a cocktail party or just looking for a way to unwind after a long week, the Cherry Gin Rickey is definitely worth a try. So, grab a glass and get ready to enjoy the taste of liquid summer!
29. Lemon Drop Martini
The Lemon Drop Martini is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. With its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, it's no wonder why it's a popular choice for any season. The cocktail is made with freshly squeezed lemon juice, unflavored vodka, and a homemade lemon sugar rim that adds a touch of elegance to the drink.
This cocktail is perfect for an at-home happy hour, girls’ night in, or any other time you want to pour a celebratory drink. If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail, the Lemon Drop Martini is a must-try.
30. Pom & Mary Coupe Cocktail
The Pom & Mary Coupe Cocktail is a deliciously tart and herbal cocktail that is perfect for fall and holiday entertaining. Made with dry gin, pomegranate juice, elderflower liqueur, and muddled rosemary, this cocktail has a complex flavor profile that is both sweet and tart. The beautiful red color of the cocktail makes it an elegant addition to any dinner party or gathering.
Served in an oversized coupe glass, this cocktail is not only delicious but also visually stunning. If you're a fan of dry cocktails, you'll love the tartness of this drink, which pairs perfectly with a hearty dinner. The Pom & Mary Coupe Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and sophisticated tart cocktail.
31. Rhubarb and Honey Pisco Sour
The Rhubarb and Honey Pisco Sour is a refreshing twist on the classic Peruvian cocktail. This tart cocktail is made with Peruvian Pisco, lime juice, and a homemade rhubarb and honey simple syrup.
The addition of egg white gives the cocktail a frothy texture, while a dash of bitters adds a fragrant finish. The lovely blush hue of this rhubarb cocktail makes it a perfect summer drink. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful tart cocktail, the Rhubarb and Honey Pisco Sour is definitely worth trying.
32. Houston Rodeo Jalapeno Lemonade Cocktail
The Houston Rodeo Jalapeno Lemonade Cocktail is a unique and flavorful tart cocktail that is sure to impress. Inspired by the jalapeno lemonade at the Houston Rodeo, this cocktail is a spicy, sweet, and tart combination that is perfect for those who love a little kick in their drinks.
Made with freshly made lemonade and jarred jalapenos, this cocktail is easy to make and can be adjusted to suit your spice preference. Whether you're a fan of the rodeo or not, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a good tart cocktail with a twist. So grab your cowboy boots and give this cocktail a try – you won't be disappointed!
