artinis & Other Up Drinks
The Martini is the classic of classic cocktails, but there are many variations of the dry drink that, although not technically Martinis, are often referred to as such. To be technical about it these drinks are neat drinks, served in a cocktail, or martini, glass, but popular culture has deemed them all to be martinis. At any rate, these include some of the most popular up drinks, a few classics and a few more modern creations
Tall Drinks
When you're looking for a tall glass of liquor with a lot of flavor, you'll often be offered one of these mixed drinks. Most of them are very easy to remember and the majority of bartenders will know how to make a good one. The best part about knowing your highballs is that you'll be able to find these drinks in almost any type of bar you walk into, from a swanky cocktail lounge to a sports pub and even a dive bar. Because there is more liquid and ice in highballs they are meant to be sipped slowly and enjoyed over a long period of time. Highballs are perfect with a meal or anytime you want a "watered down" drink.
On the Rocks
Some of the best-known drinks are lowballs, or those served on the rocks without the high volume mixers you find in highballs. Lowballs are mixed drinks that are mostly made of a mix of distilled spirits which are either shaken and strained over ice or built in the glass and stirred. You'll find these drinks are more alcoholic than highballs, but as the ice melts they are diluted to a perfect mixture. A few of these cocktails are also commonly shaken then strained into a cocktail glass for a neat, up alternative.
Tropical Drinks
Many tropical cocktails first became popular in the 1920's and 30's and are as famous today as they were then. It was during that time that Ernest Hemingway helped bring the Daiquiri out of the obscurity of Havana bars and Don the Beachcomber and Trader Vic opened up their first tiki bars which were to become great hits. Rum is the dominant spirit of most tropical cocktails, but tequila and vodka are also found in some of the favorites. Tropical cocktails typically have a mix of sweet and sour flavors and include almost any fruit you could think of.
Hot Cocktails
As the winter winds begin to blow the tastes of many drinkers change and the chilled cocktails just won't do. Thank goodness there are plenty of hot cocktails that can warm you up from the inside out. Almost any liquor can be added to coffee for a warm, spiked cup of java, and the list of "cafe" cocktails is almost endless. If coffee is not your cup of tea (so to speak) there are some other, much more classic, hot cocktails that might fit your tastes. Drinks like the Hot Buttered Rum, Hot Toddy and Tom and Jerry have long been favorite warm drinks and are requirements of many family's holiday traditions.
Shooters
Ahh, the infamous shooters. What started with a shot of whiskey or tequila for a quick jolt of "reality" or to cure whatever might ail you has transformed into a long list of short shooters that come in any color and flavor possible. Bartenders have pulled out all the obscure liqueurs lying dormant in the wells to create many of these fun party drinks that are meant to get you buzzed really quick. Surprisingly, many shooters taste really good (while many are absolutely dreadful), it's just a shame that there's not enough time to enjoy the flavor combinations.
Cocktails by Flavor
Are you looking for a cocktail with a specific flavor in it? Whether you seek pineapple, apple, chocolate or coffee flavored cocktails, you will find a variety of cocktail options with a specific flavor in these lists.
Holiday Cocktails
There is a cocktail for almost every season and every reason. These drinks, in particular, are ideal for the various holidays and special occasions that occur throughout the year.
