When it comes to cocktails, some drinks get all the glory while others quietly impress those in the know. If you’re looking to expand your cocktail repertoire and try something new, here are eight underrated cocktails that bartenders love. Each one offers a unique flavor experience that will elevate your appreciation for the art of mixology.
1. Vieux Carré
A Classic from New Orleans
The Vieux Carré is a classic New Orleans cocktail known for its complex and rich flavor profile. Made with rye whiskey, Cognac, sweet vermouth, Benedictine, and bitters, this drink offers a sophisticated taste that stands the test of time.
Ingredients
- 1 oz rye whiskey
- 1 oz Cognac
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 tsp Benedictine
- 2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Lemon twist for garnish
Why It’s Underrated
Despite its rich history and balanced flavors, the Vieux Carré often gets overshadowed by other classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan. However, its unique blend of spirits and bitters creates a memorable drinking experience that deserves more recognition.
2. Boulevardier
A Whiskey Twist on the Negroni
The Boulevardier is a sophisticated cocktail that combines whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari. It’s essentially a Negroni with whiskey instead of gin, offering a bittersweet and complex flavor profile.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye)
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz Campari
- Orange twist for garnish
Why It’s Underrated
While the Negroni has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity, the Boulevardier remains lesser-known. Its deep, rich flavors make it a perfect choice for whiskey lovers looking for something new.
3. Last Word
A Prohibition-Era Gem
The Last Word is a well-balanced cocktail from the Prohibition era. Made with equal parts gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice, it offers a unique herbal and citrusy taste.
Ingredients
- 0.75 oz gin
- 0.75 oz green Chartreuse
- 0.75 oz maraschino liqueur
- 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
- Lime twist for garnish
Why It’s Underrated
Despite its balanced and intriguing flavor profile, the Last Word often flies under the radar. Its complex mix of ingredients creates a refreshing yet sophisticated drink that’s worth exploring.
4. Aperol Spritz
A Refreshing Italian Classic
The Aperol Spritz is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail made with Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water. Its bright orange color and bittersweet citrus flavor make it a perfect aperitif.
Ingredients
- 3 oz Prosecco
- 2 oz Aperol
- 1 oz soda water
- Orange slice for garnish
Why It’s Underrated
While popular in Italy, the Aperol Spritz is often overlooked elsewhere. Its light and refreshing nature make it an ideal summer drink, deserving more attention worldwide.
5. Sazerac
The Quintessential New Orleans Cocktail
The Sazerac is a bold and aromatic cocktail from New Orleans. Made with rye whiskey, absinthe or Herbsaint, Peychaud’s bitters, and a sugar cube, it’s a drink with a rich history and a distinctive flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 oz rye whiskey
- 0.25 oz absinthe or Herbsaint
- 3 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
- 1 sugar cube
- Lemon twist for garnish
Why It’s Underrated
Though it’s a classic, the Sazerac is often overshadowed by other whiskey-based cocktails. Its unique preparation and bold flavors make it a standout that more people should try.
6. Corpse Reviver No. 2
A Revitalizing Cocktail
The Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a revival cocktail known for its bright and citrusy flavor. Made with equal parts gin, Lillet Blanc, Cointreau, and fresh lemon juice, with a dash of absinthe, it’s a refreshing and complex drink.
Ingredients
- 0.75 oz gin
- 0.75 oz Lillet Blanc
- 0.75 oz Cointreau
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 dash absinthe
- Lemon twist for garnish
Why It’s Underrated
Despite its deliciously balanced flavor, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 often gets overlooked in favor of more straightforward gin cocktails. Its blend of citrus and herbal notes makes it a delightful and refreshing option.
7. Dark ‘n’ Stormy
A Simple Yet Flavorful Drink
The Dark ‘n’ Stormy is a simple cocktail made with dark rum and ginger beer. Served over ice with a lime wedge, it’s a refreshing drink with a slightly spicy kick.
Ingredients
- 2 oz dark rum
- 3.5 oz ginger beer
- Lime wedge for garnish
Why It’s Underrated
While easy to make, the Dark ‘n’ Stormy often doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves. Its bold and spicy flavors make it a perfect choice for those looking for a refreshing yet robust drink.
8. Ramos Gin Fizz
A Frothy New Orleans Classic
The Ramos Gin Fizz is a classic New Orleans cocktail known for its frothy and velvety texture. Made with gin, lemon juice, lime juice, egg white, sugar, cream, orange flower water, and soda water, it’s a labor-intensive drink that rewards with a unique taste.
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 egg white
- 1 oz heavy cream
- 2 tsp sugar
- 3 drops orange flower water
- Soda water to top
- Orange twist for garnish
Why It’s Underrated
The Ramos Gin Fizz requires a vigorous shake and a bit of patience, which can deter some from making it. However, its frothy texture and complex flavor are well worth the effort.
Exploring underrated cocktails is a journey into the rich and diverse world of mixology. Each of these drinks offers a unique flavor experience that can elevate your cocktail game. Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or a fan of refreshing, citrusy drinks, these underrated gems deserve a place in your cocktail rotation.
