Learning to make cocktails at home can feel like stepping into a whole new world, but it doesn't have to be intimidating.

With just a few basic ingredients and techniques, you can master a small collection of timeless drinks that will build your skills and impress your guests.

These five cocktails are the best place to start: they’re simple, balanced, endlessly customizable, and perfect for beginner home bartenders.

Why these five?

These five drinks are classics for a reason.

Each one teaches you a different skill: shaking, stirring, muddling, balancing flavors, and choosing the right tools. They’re the foundation of mixology and every beginner should master them first.

(The tools mentioned throughout this blog post will be linked to at the very end. Don't miss that!)

1. Whiskey Sour

Skill: Shaking and balancing citrus
Recommended tools: Boston Shaker and Double Jigger

A classic that’s bright, bold, and just a little bit fancy. Once you nail this, you’ll be able to balance any sour-style drink.

Ingredients:

• Bourbon

• Lemon juice

• Simple syrup

• Optional: Egg white

2. Martini

Skill: Stirring and dilution control
Recommended tools: Mixing Glass + Bar Spoon and Martini Glasses

The most iconic cocktail of all. Learn how to tailor it to your taste; dry, dirty, or perfect.

Ingredients:

• Gin or vodka

• Dry vermouth

• Lemon twist or olive

3. Daiquiri

Skill: Shaking and understanding sugar-to-citrus ratios
Recommended tools: Citrus Juicer and Cocktail Strainer

Not frozen or neon green. The real Daiquiri is rum, lime, and sugar, shaken to perfection.

Ingredients:

• Light rum

• Lime juice

• Simple syrup

4. Negroni

Skill: Stirred equal-parts mixing + bitter appreciation
Recommended tools: Mixing Glass Set and Large Ice Mold

This bold, bitter drink is incredibly easy to remember and difficult to forget.

Ingredients:

• Gin

• Sweet vermouth

• Campari

5. Mojito

Skill: Muddling and in-glass building
Recommended tools: Stainless Steel Muddler and Highball Glasses 

A refreshing favorite that teaches you how to use fresh ingredients the right way.

Ingredients:

• Light rum

• Lime wedges

• Mint leaves

• Sugar

• Club soda

Take Your First Step into Home Mixology

With just a few spirits, some citrus, and the right bar tools, you can make all five of these drinks—and build the confidence to explore many more.