As a bartender, I've seen my fair share of drinks. From the classic Old Fashioned to the trendy Aperol Spritz, I've mixed them all.
But what sets apart the truly great cocktails from the rest of the pack? It's the unique and unexpected ingredients that make a drink stand out.
When I'm creating a new cocktail recipe, I look for inspiration everywhere. I'll try a new fruit or herb and think, "what would happen if I added this to a drink?"
Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn't, but the experimentation is part of the fun.
But what makes a unique cocktail truly great? It's a balance of flavors, textures, and aromas. The best cocktails are like a symphony, with each ingredient playing a different role to create a harmonious whole.
A great cocktail should be surprising and delightful, with unexpected twists and turns that keep your taste buds guessing.
So, in this blog post, I'm going to share some of my favorite unique cocktail recipes. These are drinks that will make your customers sit up and take notice, and they're sure to become favorites at your bar.
From savory to sweet, spicy to sour, these cocktails are a celebration of the unexpected. So grab your shaker and let's get mixing!
1. Gin Sour With Butterfly Pea
The Gin Sour with Butterfly Pea is a visually stunning cocktail made with Malfy Gin Rosa, butterfly pea flower simple syrup, and pink peppercorn. The addition of lavender bitters intensifies the floral undertones in the grapefruit gin, while the freshly cracked pink peppercorn adds a citrusy spice that complements the grapefruit and lemon flavors.
The butterfly pea flower simple syrup not only adds a gorgeous blue color to the cocktail, but also a subtle sweetness. Topped with a pink carnation, the Gin Sour with Butterfly Pea is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds.
2. The Trinidad Sour
"The Trinidad Sour" is a modern classic cocktail made with an unprecedented amount of Angostura bitters, lemon juice, orgeat syrup, and whiskey. It may sound unpalatable, but it's surprisingly complex and herbal with a bitter finish.
This standout cocktail is sure to impress well-versed drinkers and is perfect for those looking for a truly unique drink. Just keep in mind that it's not great for serving a crowd, as it uses almost half a bottle of bitters.
3. Blood Orange Champagne Mule
The Blood Orange Champagne Mule is a unique and festive cocktail that is perfect for ringing in the New Year. This twist on the classic Moscow Mule combines the flavors of blood oranges and champagne for a refreshing and colorful drink. The addition of lime juice, vodka, and ginger beer adds a nice kick to the cocktail.
The red hue of the blood oranges makes it a visually stunning drink that is sure to impress guests at any party. While the recipe is simple, the flavors are complex and well-balanced. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a fun and delicious way to celebrate the New Year.
4. El Presidente Cocktail
The El Presidente Cocktail is a Cuban classic made with aged rum, blanc vermouth, orange liqueur, and grenadine. It's a sophisticated and boozy rum cocktail with a nuanced flavor that's subtly bitter with a sweet and citrusy undertone.
The aged rum used in the cocktail gives it a complex flavor with undertones of vanilla, coconut, almond, citrus, or caramel. The El Presidente Cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a sophisticated and complex cocktail.
5. Moonshine Mule
The "Moonshine Mule" is a unique and exciting twist on the classic Moscow Mule cocktail. This modernization uses moonshine instead of vodka, which adds a new level of depth and complexity to the drink. The key ingredients of fresh ginger and lime, along with a ginger beer with a good "bite," make for a refreshing and invigorating taste.
This cocktail is perfect for those looking to try something new and adventurous. Whether you're a moonshine enthusiast or just looking to mix up your usual drink, the "Moonshine Mule" is definitely worth a try.
6. Penicillin Cocktail
The Penicillin Cocktail is a modern classic that has gained popularity in bars across the country. Created by bartender Sam Ross at Milk & Honey in Manhattan in 2005, this cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and smoky flavors. The use of two different types of scotch – blended scotch and peated scotch – results in a smooth and balanced cocktail with a slightly smoky finish.
The honey ginger simple syrup adds a touch of sweetness while the lemon juice provides a refreshing sourness. The Penicillin Cocktail is a perfect choice for those who want to try something new and unique. With its nuanced and balanced flavors, this cocktail is a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.
7. Balanced Boulevardier Cocktail
The Balanced Boulevardier Cocktail is a delicious and balanced aperitif that scotch lovers will surely enjoy. It is a close cousin to the Negroni, but instead of gin, it calls for scotch, which gives it a unique and smoky flavor.
The cocktail is made with equal parts of scotch, Campari, and sweet vermouth, which makes it easy to remember and mix.
What sets this cocktail apart is its beautiful color and the way it stimulates the appetite, making it a perfect pre-dinner drink.
It is also a great conversation starter, as guests will surely ask about its unique flavor and composition.
Overall, the Balanced Boulevardier Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves scotch and wants to try a unique and balanced cocktail.
8. Hibiscus Cocktail With Grapefruit
The Hibiscus Cocktail with Grapefruit is a refreshing and unique cocktail that will leave your taste buds wanting more. The use of hibiscus liqueur adds a light floral taste with a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the grapefruit. The deep color of the cocktail adds a nice look to the drink without being too overpowering.
This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy vodka-based drinks and want to try something new. The recipe is simple and straightforward, making it easy to recreate at home. Overall, the Hibiscus Cocktail with Grapefruit is a must-try for anyone looking to add a unique and refreshing drink to their cocktail repertoire.
9. Huckleberry Cosmopolitan
The Huckleberry Cosmopolitan is a unique cocktail that combines the sweetness of huckleberries with a little bit of tartness to create a fruity and refreshing drink. It's perfect for a night in with friends or a party, and it's sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a traditional Cosmo.
The key ingredient in this cocktail is huckleberry vodka, which can be hard to find outside of Idaho. However, with a little bit of effort, you can track down this delicious vodka and make this cocktail at home. If you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try, the Huckleberry Cosmopolitan is definitely worth a taste.
10. Daiquiri Cocktail With Violet
The Daiquiri Cocktail with Violet is a refreshing twist on the classic rum-sour drink. The addition of violet syrup gives this cocktail a floral undertone and a gorgeous purple hue. The use of food coloring is optional but can transform the drink into a pretty purple libation.
This cocktail is perfect for warm sunny days and can be made in advance for easy serving. The Daiquiri Cocktail with Violet is a must-try for those looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail.
11. Gin and Tea Cocktail
The Gin and Tea Cocktail is a refreshing twist on the classic gimlet cocktail. This unique cocktail recipe uses Steep Echo's Bloom tea blend, which adds a variety of savory herbs and botanicals to the gin-based drink.
The herbal flavor of the gin pairs perfectly with the Bloom tea blend, making this cocktail a must-try for any tea or gin lover.
12. Pink Grapefruit Cocktail With Rosemary
The Pink Grapefruit Cocktail with Rosemary is a unique and refreshing drink that is perfect for those who love tart and bitter flavors. This cocktail is made with fresh grapefruit juice, vodka, and a hint of rosemary that adds a depth of flavor to the drink. It is not too sweet, making it a great option for those who prefer less sugary cocktails.
The muddled rosemary and fresh grapefruit garnish give this cocktail a sophisticated and elegant look. It is perfect for a party or a night in with friends. If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail, the Pink Grapefruit Cocktail with Rosemary is definitely worth a try.
13. Classic Sazerac
The Classic Sazerac is a timeless cocktail that originated in New Orleans. It is made with rye whiskey, Peychaud’s bitters, sugar, and an absinthe rinse. The cocktail is a cousin to the Old Fashioned and is a celebration of all things New Orleans.
It is deceptively easy to construct, but it is important to get the details right. If you are looking for a timeless cocktail with a rich history, the Classic Sazerac is definitely worth trying.
14. Skittles Vodka Cocktail
The Skittles Vodka Cocktail is a unique and fun drink that is perfect for any summer gathering or 4th of July celebration. The base of the cocktail is candy-infused vodka, which is incredibly easy to make. The vodka is then shaken with cherry juice, lemonade, and lemon-lime soda to create a sweet and refreshing beverage.
The different flavors of Skittles candy used to infuse the vodka can add a fun and colorful twist to the drink. This cocktail is perfect for those who love sweet and fruity drinks, and it's sure to be a hit at any party or gathering.
15. Healthy Paloma Cocktail
The Healthy Paloma Cocktail is a refreshing tequila-based drink that is not too sweet and not too strong.
Made with fresh grapefruit and lime juice and a little bit of soda water, it is a healthier version of the traditional Paloma cocktail. It is a versatile drink that can be customized to your liking, and is perfect for any occasion.
16. Kombucha Moscow Mule
The Kombucha Moscow Mule is a unique twist on the classic cocktail that is perfect for summer. The addition of pineapple and ginger kombucha gives it a tropical flavor and a healthy kick. This cocktail is part of a larger book about clean eating, but even if you're not into that, the Kombucha Moscow Mule is worth trying.
It's quick and easy to make and will leave you feeling refreshed and guilt-free. If you're looking for a unique cocktail to try this summer, the Kombucha Moscow Mule should definitely be on your list.
17. Ruby Relaxer
The Ruby Relaxer is a tropical cocktail that combines the flavors of coconut, pineapple, peach, and cranberry into a unique and refreshing drink. Its signature ruby red color and smooth taste make it a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts. The addition of equal parts vodka, schnapps, and rum gives this cocktail a punch that will help you unwind after a long day.
While the fruity juices might make you think it's too sweet, the tartness balances it out perfectly. This cocktail is perfect for hosting guests and can be made in larger batches. If you want to keep things extra cool, chill the glass before serving. The Ruby Relaxer is a must-try for anyone looking for a tasty and refreshing cocktail that packs a punch.
18. Vodka Pear Lavender Lemonade Cocktail
The Vodka Pear Lavender Lemonade Cocktail is a refreshing and unique drink that combines the sweetness of pears, the floral notes of lavender, and the tartness of lemons, all balanced out by a splash of vodka.
The pinch of salt in the recipe helps to bring out the flavors and make the drink even more enjoyable. It can easily be turned into a mocktail and is perfect for summer.
19. Basil Cocktail & Spring Feeling Cocktail
Looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to impress your guests? Look no further than the Basil Cocktail and Spring Feeling Cocktail. These two cocktails are a modern twist on classic Green Chartreuse cocktails, featuring zesty and herbaceous flavors that are sure to delight your taste buds.
The Basil Cocktail is a vibrant and fruity gin-based cocktail with a semi-dry finish, while the Spring Feeling Cocktail is a classic pairing of Green Chartreuse with citrus and gin. Both cocktails are perfect for any occasion and are sure to impress your guests with their unique flavors and eye-catching presentation. So why not give these delicious cocktails a try and experience the perfect blend of old-world sophistication and modern-day ingredients?
20. Fresh Juicy Berry Cocktail
The Fresh Juicy Berry Cocktail is a perfect drink to celebrate the Fourth of July weekend. This refreshing cocktail is a combination of vodka, blueberries, and sparkling water, studded with strawberries and raspberries. The crushed berries in the cocktail give it a beautiful purple-pinkish tint, making it a vibrant and festive drink for the occasion.
The cocktail is easy to make and perfect for outdoor celebrations during the summer. It's a refreshing and fruity drink that will keep you cool while enjoying the fireworks. The Fresh Juicy Berry Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to celebrate the Fourth of July.
21. Kamikaze Cocktail
The Kamikaze Cocktail is a classic drink that has been around for decades. This cocktail is made with equal parts vodka, orange liqueur, and lime juice, which are shaken together and served in a chilled glass. The Kamikaze Cocktail is a refreshing and tangy drink that packs a punch.
It is perfect for those who enjoy a strong and flavorful cocktail. This drink is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it a great option for entertaining guests. The Kamikaze Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a good cocktail and wants to try something new.
22. Violet Blueberry Gin Sour
The Violet Blueberry Gin Sour is a unique twist on the classic gin sour, featuring sweet and floral notes from violet liqueur and fresh blueberries. The addition of egg white creates a smooth and velvety texture, while lemon and lime juice balance out the sweetness.
This cocktail is perfect for those who are looking for a fruity and refreshing drink with a vibrant purple hue. If you're a fan of floral cocktails, this is a must-try.
23. Pickle Martini
Looking for a unique twist on the classic martini? Look no further than the Pickle Martini. This savory cocktail is the perfect choice for those who love the briny flavor of a dirty martini. Instead of olive brine, the Pickle Martini is made with homemade pickle vodka and extra dry vermouth, creating a smooth and drinkable cocktail with a distinct pickle essence.
The key to a great martini is all about balance and temperature, and this cocktail delivers on both fronts. Served in a chilled martini glass and garnished with cornichons, this cocktail is sure to impress. So why not try something new and add the Pickle Martini to your cocktail repertoire?
24. Cottontail Martini
The Cottontail Martini is a unique and festive cocktail that is perfect for Easter celebrations. This delightful cocktail has a coconut flavor that is complemented by the tropical fruitiness of pineapple juice. The cocktail is made with whipped vodka, coconut rum, half and half, cream of coconut, and pineapple juice.
The glass is rimmed with chopped coconut and garnished with a marshmallow tail, which adds a playful touch to the drink. This cocktail is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great addition to any springtime event. If you're looking for a fun and festive cocktail to serve at your next Easter gathering, the Cottontail Martini is definitely worth a try.
25. Fresh Mango Lava Flow Cocktail
The Fresh Mango Lava Flow Cocktail is a tropical delight that will transport you straight to the beaches of Hawaii. A twist on the classic lava flow drink, this cocktail combines a rum-infused mango puree with a coconut pineapple puree, resulting in a refreshing and fruity taste that is perfect for summertime.
The ripe mangoes give the drink a natural sweetness that is perfectly balanced with the rum and coconut flavors. This cocktail is easy to make with a blender and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail that will make you feel like you're on a tropical vacation, then the Fresh Mango Lava Flow Cocktail is the perfect choice.
26. Paper Plane
The Paper Plane cocktail is a fantastic Aperol drink made with equal parts of Aperol, bourbon, Amaro, and fresh squeezed lemon juice. It's simple to make but packs a punch, with a unique flavor profile that is both sweet and bitter, with a hint of lemon.
The combination of Aperol and bourbon creates a perfect balance that is sure to impress your taste buds. It's a perfect cocktail for those who love Aperol and bourbon and is sure to leave a lasting impression.
27. Strawberry Watermelon Gin Cooler
The Strawberry Watermelon Gin Cooler is a refreshing summer cocktail that perfectly blends sweet and sour flavors. Made with Bimini Gin, muddled watermelon, pink grapefruit liqueur, homemade strawberry syrup, and lime juice, this cocktail is perfect for sipping by the pool or on the patio.
Bimini Gin, a modern American gin, adds a citrusy twist to the classic juniper-forward flavor of gin. The cocktail is easy to make with an easy-to-follow recipe. If you're looking for a unique and refreshing summer cocktail, the Strawberry Watermelon Gin Cooler is a must-try!
28. Bourbon Milk Punch
Bourbon Milk Punch is a unique cocktail recipe that is perfect for winter. It is a milk-based cocktail that can be served hot or cold and is made using a combination of bourbon, spiced rum, and almond milk. The warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg give it a cozy and holiday-like feel.
The addition of vanilla is a must-have for this cocktail, which adds depth and flavor to the drink. It is a perfect cocktail for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer non-dairy options. Bourbon Milk Punch is a must-try for those who love milk-based cocktails and want to try something new and unique.
29. Sidecar
The Sidecar is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Made with brandy, orange liqueur, and lemon juice, this cocktail strikes the perfect balance between sweet and sour. Originally created around World War I, the recipe has undergone slight changes over time, but the basic ingredients remain the same.
The use of Cognac as the brandy of choice adds a layer of complexity to the cocktail, while the orange liqueur provides a depth of flavor that cannot be replicated. The Sidecar is a must-try for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted cocktail.
30. The Amaretto Sour
The Amaretto Sour is a classic cocktail with a unique nutty flavor. Made with amaretto liqueur, whiskey, lemon juice, egg white, and simple syrup, it has a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors.
The addition of egg white creates a creamy texture that sets it apart from other sour drinks. It's a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a delicious and impressive drink.
