What cocktails should a beginner learn first?

Start with five classics that teach different techniques. Old Fashioned (building and stirring), Margarita (shaking with citrus), Mojito (muddling), Whiskey Sour (shaking with egg white), and Negroni (stirring equal parts). These five drinks cover every fundamental technique and once mastered, you can make hundreds of variations. Each requires minimal ingredients and teaches a skill that transfers to more complex drinks.

Do I need expensive spirits for home cocktails?

No. Mid-range spirits ($20-35 per bottle) perform best in cocktails. Premium spirits above $50 are designed for sipping neat, and their subtle flavors are masked by mixers. For home cocktails, invest in: a quality bourbon ($25-30), a London dry gin ($20-25), a blanco tequila ($25-30), a white rum ($15-20), and a rye whiskey ($25-30). These five bottles make dozens of classic cocktails. Invest savings in quality fresh citrus and simple syrup instead.

Best Cocktail Making Kit 2026