The 60s were a time of big changes and new ideas. Bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones changed music forever, while fashion saw the rise of mini skirts and psychedelic colors. It was a time when people stood up for their rights, we landed on the moon, TV shows like “Star Trek” entertained us, and hippie culture promoted peace and love. Amidst all this excitement, cocktails remained a popular choice with drinks like Martini being a favorite.
So let’s take a trip back in time to explore our list of top 10 must-try cocktails from the swinging 60s.
1. Whiskey Sour
Let’s kick things off with the Whiskey Sour—a simple, classic cocktail that was a big hit in the 60s. Made with bourbon, lemon juice, and sugar, it’s one of those drinks that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and sour. It’s got just the right amount of punch, thanks to the bourbon, but it’s also refreshing enough to keep you coming back for more.
Back in the 60s, the Whiskey Sour was a must-have at home cocktail parties. It was easy to make, and with just a few ingredients, it could impress anyone. Toss in a cherry or an orange slice as garnish, and you’ve got yourself a drink that looks as good as it tastes.
Related: 30 Best Whiskey Cocktails
2. Martini
When it comes to classic cocktails, the Martini is about as iconic as it gets. In the 60s, if you were drinking a Martini, you were doing something right. Whether you went with gin or vodka, olive or lemon zest, it was all about personal style. And thanks to James Bond and his famous line “Shaken, not stirred,” the Martini became the drink for those who wanted to add a little flair to their evening.
It’s crisp, clean, and perfect for a night out—or a night in. People in the 60s knew how to enjoy their cocktails, and the Martini was the ultimate choice for showing off a bit of sophistication. The Martini was also, more often than not, considered a ladies’ drink: with gin and vodka reputation of being light in calories, this elegant-looking drink, which would also leave very little smell behind, also symbolized the beginning of an era where women could drink in public, which has for long be considered a rebellious, quite repulsive act.
Related: Different Options to Order a Martini
3. Tom Collins
The Tom Collins was one of those cocktails that could fit in at just about any party in the 60s. It’s light, refreshing, and easy to drink, making it a favorite for summer afternoons or casual get-togethers. Made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and soda water, this cocktail was perfect for those who wanted something bubbly without too much fuss.
The beauty of the Tom Collins is its simplicity. You didn’t need a fancy bar setup to make one, but it still felt like a well-crafted drink. It was the ideal choice for cocktail parties where you wanted to keep things fun and laid-back.
4. Manhattan
Next up is the Manhattan, a drink that has been loved by cocktail lovers for decades. In the 60s, the Manhattan was seen as a drink for people who knew what they liked. Made with rye or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters, it’s bold and rich, with just the right amount of sweetness.
The Manhattan was the drink of choice for business professionals, but it wasn’t just for stuffy boardrooms. Whether you were out for a night on the town or hosting a more formal gathering, the Manhattan added a sense of style. And let’s be honest, there’s something special about sipping one of these while listening to some good jazz.
5. Negroni
The Negroni isn’t for the faint of heart, but if you like bold flavors, this is the drink for you. In the 60s, it started gaining popularity as people were looking for something different. Made with gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, the Negroni has a bittersweet taste that stands out in a sea of other cocktails.
What made the Negroni a favorite in the 60s was its unique flavor profile. It was for those who wanted a drink that wasn’t too sweet, but still had plenty of character.
Related: Different Negroni Variations
6. Daiquiri
While some cocktails come and go, the Daiquiri has remained a favorite for decades. This rum-based drink, made with lime juice and sugar, was especially popular in the 60s. It’s light, tart, and just sweet enough to keep you sipping. Whether you prefer it served straight up or frozen, the Daiquiri always brings a taste of the tropics.
In the 60s, frozen Daiquiris became a big trend, and people couldn’t get enough of them. With so many variations, from strawberry to banana, it became a party staple.
7. Sidecar
The Sidecar was one of those cocktails that made you feel like you were indulging in something a little fancier. Made with Cognac, Cointreau, and lemon juice, it’s smooth, tart, and oh-so-satisfying. The Sidecar was popular in the 60s for those who wanted a drink that had a bit more depth without being too heavy.
Served in a coupe glass, often with a sugared rim, the Sidecar felt like an occasion in a glass. It was the kind of drink you’d have at a nice dinner party or a more formal gathering, but it was also approachable enough to enjoy at home. It’s no wonder this cocktail remains a classic.
Related: 21 Best Cognac Cocktails
8. Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest cocktails around, and in the 60s, it enjoyed a resurgence. Made with whiskey (generally Bourbon), sugar, bitters, and a twist of orange peel or a maraschino cherry, the Old Fashioned is as straightforward as it gets. It’s strong and simple, but it has a depth of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
In the 60s, people appreciated the Old Fashioned for its no-nonsense approach. It wasn’t trying to be fancy or trendy—it was just a great drink. And with a bit of muddled cherry or orange, it could be dressed up just enough to keep things interesting.
Related: 10 Old Fashioned Variations
9. Gimlet
For those who preferred a more crisp and clean cocktail, the Gimlet was the drink of choice in the 60s. Made with gin (or vodka) and lime cordial, the Gimlet was popular for its bright, refreshing taste. It wasn’t a complicated drink, but that’s what made it perfect for casual gatherings or a night out.
The Gimlet had just enough tartness to make it interesting, but it wasn’t overpowering. It was easy to sip and easy to love, making it a favorite for anyone who wanted a drink that was light and refreshing without too many ingredients.
10. Margarita
Last but not least, we have the Margarita. By the 60s, tequila was making its way into the mainstream, and the Margarita became a hit. Made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, this cocktail brought a bit of zest and excitement to any gathering. The Margarita quickly became a party favorite whether served on the rocks or blended.
With its tart lime flavor and salty rim, the Margarita is a drink that’s hard to resist. It’s perfect for warm weather and outdoor gatherings but just as enjoyable year-round.
Related: 10 Types of Margaritas
