Surprising Classic Cocktails You Need to Try Tonight

Classic cocktails often bring to mind the usual suspects: Old Fashioned, Martini, or Margarita. But hidden in the shadows of cocktail history are some surprisingly delightful classics that deserve a place on your menu. These drinks have stood the test of time yet remain underappreciated, offering unique flavors and stories that will wow your friends at your next gathering.

The Forgotten Gems

Let's start with the Corpse Reviver #2, a bright and zesty concoction that wakes up your palate with a punch. Made with gin, Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, lemon juice, and a dash of absinthe, it’s a perfect pre-dinner drink to lift your spirits. The balance of citrus and herbal notes makes it refreshing and complex.

Another surprise is the Paper Plane. Created in the early 2000s but inspired by classic bitter-sour profiles, it features equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice. The result is a bittersweet, smooth cocktail that’s easy to sip but layered in flavor.

A Classic with a Twist: The Aviation

The Aviation cocktail is a beautiful sky-blue drink that combines gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice. It’s floral, tart, and slightly sweet, a real crowd-pleaser with a stunning look.

Original Cocktail Recipe: The Bijou Cocktail

Here’s a classic recipe that’s less common but packs a flavorful punch. The Bijou Cocktail, French for ""jewel,"" combines gin, green Chartreuse, and sweet vermouth in equal parts, finished with a lemon twist. The herbal complexity and sweetness make it a sparkling gem in any cocktail list.

**Ingredients:**

1) Gin: 30 ml

2) Green Chartreuse: 30 ml

3) Sweet Vermouth: 30 ml

4) Lemon twist for garnish

**Instructions:**

1) Add gin, green Chartreuse, and sweet vermouth to a mixing glass filled with ice.

2) Stir well until chilled.

3) Strain into a chilled coupe glass.

4) Garnish with a lemon twist, expressing the oils over the drink before dropping it in.

The Bijou is a cocktail that’s both elegant and bold. The herbal notes from Chartreuse and vermouth complement the gin’s botanicals beautifully. It’s a perfect choice when you want to impress with something classic yet unexpected.

Why These Classics Matter

Many surprising classics like the Bijou or Corpse Reviver #2 have intriguing histories. They often reflect the tastes and trends of their time, showcasing inventive combinations that bartenders loved but might have been overshadowed by more famous drinks. Rediscovering them is like uncovering a secret part of cocktail culture — and it’s a chance to enjoy something truly special.

Try shaking or stirring these classics at home or your next party. They’re conversation starters and palate pleasers that prove classic doesn’t mean boring. Sometimes the best surprises come from the past, served in a glass.

Exploring lesser-known classic cocktails opens a door to rich flavors and fascinating stories that modern drinkers often miss, making them a perfect choice for those looking to elevate their cocktail experience with surprising classics you need to try tonight

"Tips for Serving Surprising Classics

When serving these cocktails, presentation matters. Use the right glassware—a coupe or a Nick & Nora glass enhances the elegance of drinks like the Bijou or Aviation. Fresh garnishes, like a lemon twist or a cherry, add aroma and visual appeal.

Temperature is key, too. Most of these classics benefit from being well-chilled but not diluted. Stirring with ice rather than shaking preserves the silky texture and clarity of the drink.

Experimenting with Variations

Don’t hesitate to experiment. Swap Chartreuse for another herbal liqueur or try a different vermouth to tweak the Bijou’s profile. Adjust the sweetness or acidity in the Corpse Reviver #2 to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

Surprising classic cocktails remind us that the world of drinks is vast and full of gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a curious enthusiast, these drinks offer an exciting journey through time and taste. So next time you want to impress or just enjoy something different, reach for one of these classics and savor the unexpected.