The oldest cocktails in the world and their history

Between alchemists, bars and traditions: the origin of mixology

The history of cocktails is also the history of human creativity, a blend of art, curiosity, and a love of experimentation. Long before modern bars existed, ancient civilizations mixed fermented beverages with herbs, honey, or spices, seeking not only flavor but also medicinal or spiritual effects.

The term "cocktail" officially emerged in 1806 , when an American publication, The Balance and Columbian Repository , defined it as "a stimulating beverage composed of any liquor, sugar, water, and bitters." However, the practice of mixing alcohol with other ingredients has much older roots.

The origins of the ancient world to the bar revolution

In ancient Egypt , priests mixed wine with honey, dates, and spices for religious ceremonies. In Greece and Rome , mulsum , a mixture of wine and honey, was common and served at banquets. The Romans also created drinks such as Conditum Paradoxum , a mulled wine with pepper and dates, which could be considered the predecessor of modern spiced wine.

During the Middle Ages , alchemists and monks distilled herbs into alcohol, creating medicinal tonics that would later become the first liqueurs and bitters. As early as the 18th century, with the rise of maritime trade, British and Caribbean sailors began mixing rum with citrus juices and sugar, creating drinks that were precursors to the modern cocktail.

19th century the birth of the modern cocktail

The 19th century was the golden age of mixology. With the expansion of bars in Europe and America, cocktails began to be documented and professionalized. The first cocktail recipe book, “How to Mix Drinks” by Jerry Thomas , published in 1862, marked the beginning of the bartender as an artist.

Jerry Thomas, known as “the professor,” popularized iconic drinks like the Blue Blazer , a mixture of Scotch whiskey, hot water, sugar, and fire: literally flamed between two glasses, creating an unparalleled visual spectacle.

Here's a list of the oldest cocktails in the world and how they came to be:

Old Fashioned (19th century)
Considered the quintessential cocktail, it originated in Kentucky, USA. It combines whiskey, sugar, Angostura, and a touch of water. It's the classic definition of liquid elegance.
Sazerac (1830)
Originating in New Orleans, it combines cognac (later replaced by rye whiskey), absinthe, sugar, and bitters. It was one of the first officially registered cocktails.
Mint Julep (late 18th century)
A gem of the American South. It blends bourbon, fresh mint, sugar, and crushed ice. It was a favorite in the warm summers of Virginia and Kentucky.
Martini (mid-19th century)
Although its origin is debated between Italy and the United States, the classic gin and vermouth martini became synonymous with sophistication. Its popularity grew thanks to Hollywood and James Bond.
Daiquiri (late 19th century)
Created in Cuba by an American engineer, it combines white rum, lemon juice, and sugar. It symbolizes the blend of Caribbean culture and foreign influence.
Manhattan (1870)
Born at the Manhattan Club in New York, its blend of whiskey, red vermouth, and Angostura is a tribute to classy understatement.
Negroni (1919)
Invented in Florence, Italy, when Count Camillo Negroni asked to fortify his Americano with gin. The result: a bitter and elegant classic.

Cocktails and their evolution, from luxury to popular culture

During Prohibition in the United States (1920–1933) , cocktails took a curious turn. The poor quality of clandestine alcohol led bartenders to use juices, fruits, and sweet liqueurs to disguise strong flavors. It was then that combinations such as the Whiskey Sour , the Sidecar , and the Gin Rickey emerged , which are now legendary.

In the 20th century, cocktails became cultural icons. The Martini was synonymous with glamour; the Mojito , with tropical freshness; and the Margarita , with the festive Mexican spirit. Each sip told a story and a social context.

The new era of mixology

Today, mixology is experiencing a renaissance. Contemporary bartenders are reviving techniques from the past, reinterpreting classics, and experimenting with local ingredients, natural infusions, and artisanal spirits. The trend is toward more sustainable and visually striking signature cocktails.

At vinosylicores.com , you can find the ideal liqueurs to recreate these classic cocktails:

Scotch whiskey or bourbon for an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
White or gold rum for a Daiquiri or Mojito.
Premium gin for a Martini or Negroni.
White or reposado tequila to reinterpret a Margarita with Mexican style.

Every cocktail has a story, and you can continue writing it, glass in hand, under the magic of the night. 🍸✨
Discover our Halloween Bottle Collection – Vinosylicores.com and toast with the season's most mysterious and fascinating spirits. 🎃🥃