A clueless bartender drives us mad – especially when they have no idea about cocktails.

If you’re starting out as a bartender, the cocktail world can be very confusing, which is why we’ve narrowed them down to the most popular mixes.

Here are some classic cocktails every bartender should know off the top of their head.

Classic Cocktail Recipes

Cosmopolitan

Typically, a female staple, this cocktail is the notion of a delectable drink.

Ingredients

• 1 and a 1/2 shots of Citroen Vodka
• 1/2 shot of Triple Sec
• 1 and a 1/2 shots of Cranberry Juice
• 1/2 shot of freshly squeezed Lime Juice

Method

• Add ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well
• Strain into a cocktail glass

French Martini

This first came to the scene in the 80’s in New York City bars, but has spread throughout the world.

Ingredients

• 1 shot of Vodka
• 1 shot of Chambord
• 2 shots of Pineapple Juice

Method

• Add ingredients plus ice to a cocktail shaker
• Shake well and pour into a chilled glass

Long Island Iced Tea

The brand of rum used in this drink can make the world of difference to transform it from its non-alcoholic sister.

Ingredients

• 1/2 shot of Vodka
• 1/2 shot of Rum
• 1/2 shot of Tequila
• 1/2 shot of Gin
• 1/2 shot of Triple Sec
• 1 shot of freshly squeezed Lemon Juice
• 1/2 shot of Sugar Syrup
• Cola

Method

• Shake all ingredients, except Cola, into a cocktail shaker
• Pour into a glass and top with Cola

Margarita

Stereotyped as the party drink for its strong percentage of alcohol, this was first invented by a bar owner who was allergic to every spirit except tequila.

Ingredients

• 2 shots of Tequila
• 1 shot of Freshly squeezed Lime Juice
• 1 shot of Triple Sec
• 1/2 shot of Agave Nectar Syrup

Method

• Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker
• Pour into a cocktail glass

Old Fashioned

As the name suggests, this classic cocktail is served in an old fashioned glass. It’s perfect for those dark, cold nights.

Ingredients

• 2 and a 1/2 shots of Bourbon
• 1/2 shot of Sugar Syrup
• 3 dashes of Angostura Bitters

Method

• Pour Bourbon into a glass, add ice and stir
• Add the syrup and bitters and stir further
• Add another handful of ice

Now we’ve given you these five classic cocktails, it’s time to get practicing. Share your marvels with us on Twitter or Instagram.