The Empire top 10
Our team of experts and enthusiasts sat down and deliberated over “what makes a cocktail great?” Empire Mixology hammered out a list of the Top 10 Cocktails, based on impact and overall taste. The list is updated as new recipes and opinions develop, so check back to see if anything’s changed!
#1 The long island iced tea
The cocktail of cocktails. Our experts agree that no cocktail is quite the combination of flavors and spirits as the Long Island Iced Tea. Now sure we’re a little biased because three generations of our mixologists hail from Long Island, but the argument is indistinguishable; no cocktail on this list incorporates as many spirits and flavors as the Long Island. We consider it a core cocktail and one that any self-respecting mixologist should know how to make. The Long Island Iced Tea has spawned its own class of cocktails such as the Purple Rain, Texas Tea, Tokyo Tea and more. For the reasons of taste, skill level, and overall popularity we at Empire Mixology name the Long Island Iced Tea as the Greatest Cocktail.
#2 The Mojito
Probably the most famous rum highball aside from the Cuba Libre, the Mojito is a worldwide phenomenon. Recently named the favorite cocktail of both France and Britain, the Mojito has ascended to cocktail royalty in the last few decades. With it’s sweet and refreshing taste the Mojito is a summertime favorite. The Mojito is also becoming a class of its own, as many variations and twists on the original recipe are being developed. Due to its immense popularity all over the world and its light and sweet flavor, we name the Mojito the #2 Cocktail.
#3 The old fashioned
It might surprise you that when a newspaper was asked to define the word “cocktail” in 1806, they basically described the Old Fashioned. Traditionally made with rye whiskey it’s also commonly accepted to made with bourbon which is the official drink of Louisville, Kentucky. The Old Fashioned is presently enjoying a renaissance due to the popularity of the mid-2000s drama “Mad Men,” as it was the favorite of lead character Don Draper. An incredibly historic cocktail and traditional to boot, the Old Fashioned takes our #3 spot.
#4 The Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is another great American cocktail. Created due to an excess of SMIRNOFF Vodka, this recipe rapidly caught on and is a staple of cocktail menus all over the world. Crisp and refreshing, no cocktail quite captures the unique essence and character of this libation. Due to exceeding popularity and quality flavor, we deem the Moscow Mule worthy of a Top 5 inclusion.
#5 The Rum Runner
The Rum Runner is a quintessential tropical cocktail. The rumor has it that the libation was born in the 1950s in Florida when a bartender tried using up extra inventory to create space. This beverage is an explosion of flavors and sweetness. The blend of citrus juices with the exorbitant fruit flavored liqueurs create a confectionery cavalcade and tastebud tantalizing experience. The Rum Runner is dangerous due to its ability to mask its high alcohol content. The Rum Runner is a favorite cocktail of any summer menu and in taste alone earns a place on the Top 10.
#6 The Cuba Libre
It may be identical to a rum & coke, but this immensely popular cocktail has a worldwide fanbase and history all its own. Hailing from Cuba where most great rum cocktails come from, the Cuba Libre was created in the early 1900s. The exact recipe calls for Bacardi Superior Silver Rum and Coca Cola. Aside from the Gin & Tonic on this list, this is the simplest recipe on the Top 10. However, don’t let the simplicity fool you, as this may be the most popular cocktail in the world on this list too. Due to reasons of immense popularity and historical basis, the Cuba Libre makes the Top 10.
#7 The Manhattan
A New York original and a cocktail for the ages. The Manhattan is thought to have been created in the late 1800s in New York City. This recipe has prevailed through the tests of time into the modern day. A symbol of elegance and sophistication, the Manhattan has been the favored cocktail of many socialites. We granted the #7 slot to the Manhattan based on its bold flavor, perseverance throughout the decades, and its symbolism in cocktail culture.
#8 The Martini
The quintessential cocktail and in a regard all its own, the Martini is a legend. Named the greatest American invention, the Martini has stood tall as the face of all cocktails. Named one of the six basic drinks any bartender should know, the Martini is a pillar of modern mixology and is a recipe all bartenders and mixologists should know by heart. The definition of class, the Martini has stood the test of time and remained prevalent in cocktail culture, therefore it would be shameful to not include it on our list.
#9 the Margarita
The Margarita is in a class all its own. This mid-century cocktail exploded onto the scene and has created a class all its own. Similar to the Martini, the Margarita is a defining cocktail that is considered a pillar of modern mixology. The sole tequila-based cocktail on the Top 10, the list wouldn’t be complete without a cocktail of culture and class all its own.
#10 The Gin & Tonic
Although simple, it is not to be underestimated. The G&T is a classic cocktail that really can be enjoyed by all. The simple, inexpensive recipe is light and refreshing and is perfect for all seasons. This cocktail is centuries old and continues to be routinely ordered in the modern era. For these reasons our panel decided the Gin & Tonic deserved ranking in the Top 10.