Vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and whiskey are the essential spirits used to create a wide range of classic and modern cocktails. Each ingredient offers unique flavours and characteristics, forming the base of drinks from refreshing spritzes to bold, spirit-forward mixes.
Vodka originates from Eastern Europe, with Russia and Poland both claiming its creation. It is typically distilled from grains or potatoes and is known for its clean, neutral flavor.
This purity makes vodka highly versatile in cocktails, as it easily blends with a wide range of ingredients without overpowering other flavors.
Its smoothness is key to popular drinks like the Bloody Mary, Martini, and Moscow Mule. Vodka is able to pair well with sweet, sour, or spicy elements makes it a go-to spirit for mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
• Neutral spirit made from grains, potatoes, or other fermentables.
• Known for: Clean, smooth flavour; base of many cocktails.
• Popular types: Plain, flavoured (citrus, berry, vanilla).
Gin originates from the Netherlands and England, with its roots in the 17th century. It is distilled from grains and flavored primarily with juniper berries, giving it a distinct, aromatic taste.
Gin has a botanical profile, which often includes herbs, citrus, and spices, makes it a versatile spirit for cocktails. Its complex flavors work well with mixers like tonic water, citrus, and herbs.
Gin has a unique ability to balance sweet, bitter, and herbal elements helping it create refreshing and sophisticated cocktails.
• London Dry – Classic, crisp, juniper-forward.
• Old Tom – Slightly sweet.
• Plymouth – Earthier, exclusive to Plymouth, England.
• Contemporary – Emphasises other botanicals, less juniper-heavy.
Whiskey originates from Scotland and Ireland, dating back to the 15th century. It is distilled from fermented grains like barley, rye, or corn and aged in wooden barrels, which give it a rich, smoky, or sweet flavor depending on the type.
Whiskey has a depth and complexity which makes it a popular choice for cocktails. It pairs well with ingredients like bitters, sugar, and citrus, creating classic drinks like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Whiskey Sour.
Its bold, warming flavor and versatility with both sweet and savory elements make whiskey a staple in mixology.
Common types of Whisky/Whiskey:
• Scotch Whisky – Made in Scotland, usually aged in oak barrels (e.g. Single Malt, Blended).
• Irish Whiskey – Triple distilled, smooth, from Ireland.
• American Whiskey – Includes: Bourbon – At least 51% corn, sweet and rich. Tennessee Whiskey – Like bourbon but charcoal-filtered (e.g. Jack Daniel’s). Rye Whiskey – Spicy, made with at least 51% rye.
• Canadian Whisky – Lighter and smoother, often blended.
• Japanese Whisky – Inspired by Scotch, known for precision and balance.
Tequila originates from Mexico and is made from the blue agave plant, primarily in the region around the town of Tequila. Its production dates back to the 16th century.
Tequila has an earthy, spicy, and sometimes citrusy flavor sets it apart from other spirits. It comes in various types, such as blanco (unaged), reposado (aged), and anejo (aged longer), offering different levels of smoothness.
Tequila has a bold, vibrant taste makes it ideal for cocktails like the Margarita, Paloma, and Tequila Sunrise. Its ability to blend with sweet, sour, and fruity elements makes it a favorite in refreshing, lively cocktails.
Tequila – Must be 100% blue agave or a blend. It comes as:
• Blanco – Unaged.
• Reposado – Aged 2–12 months.
• Anejo – Aged 1–3 years.
• Mezcal – Broader category, often smoky in flavour.
Brandy originates from France, dating back to the 16th century, and is made by distilling wine or fermented fruit juice. It is aged in wooden casks, giving it a rich, smooth flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, and dried fruit.
Brandy has a warmth and complexity make it perfect for cocktails. It blends well with spices, citrus, and sweet flavors, leading to classics like the Sidecar, Brandy Alexander, and the Hot Toddy.
It has a versatile, full-bodied profile which makes brandy a favorite for both warm and elegant cocktails, ideal for sipping in colder months or as an after-dinner drink.
Distilled from wine or fermented fruit juice and comes as:
• Cognac – Premium French brandy from Cognac region.
• Armagnac – Earthier and more rustic than Cognac.
• Pisco – South American grape brandy (Peru, Chile).
• Calvados – French apple brandy from Normandy.
• Grappa – Italian pomace brandy.
Rum is a distilled alcoholic spirit made from sugarcane by-products—either molasses or sugarcane juice. It's most commonly produced in Caribbean and Latin American countries, though it's now made worldwide.
Common types of Rum:
• White Rum – Clear and light, used in Mojitos and Daiquiris.
• Gold Rum – Aged lightly, mellow flavour.
• Dark Rum – Aged longer, bold and rich (e.g. for Tiki drinks).
• Spiced Rum – Infused with spices like cinnamon, vanilla.
• Overproof Rum – Very high ABV (e.g. 151 proof).
Champagne originates from the Champagne region of France and is a sparkling wine made primarily from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes.
Its production method, called "methode champenoise," involves a second fermentation in the bottle, creating its signature bubbles. Champagne has a crisp, light, and slightly fruity or toasty flavor makes it ideal for cocktails.
It pairs well with a variety of mixers, such as fruit juices or liqueurs, leading to popular drinks like the Mimosa, French 75, and Bellini. Champagne's effervescence and elegance make it a staple for celebratory and sophisticated cocktails.