Celebrate World Cocktail Day with These Easy-to-Make Drinks at Home

World Cocktail Day, celebrated annually every 13th May, is the perfect excuse to shake, stir, and sip your way through some of the most beloved cocktails from around the world. 

Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or a curious beginner, there’s something deeply satisfying about crafting your own drink at home.

To help you mark the occasion in style, we’ve rounded up a selection of simple yet delicious cocktail recipes you can try in your own kitchen. All you need is a handful of ingredients, a bit of creativity, and a willingness to experiment.

A Brief History of World Cocktail Day

World Cocktail Day commemorates the publication of the first definition of a cocktail in 1806, which described it as a mix of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters. Today, cocktails are a global phenomenon, ranging from classic concoctions to bold, modern mixes. The day is part of World Cocktail Week, a celebration of the art and enjoyment of cocktail culture.

Five Easy Cocktails to Make at Home

1. Classic Mojito (Cuba)

Refreshing and zesty – perfect for spring and summer.

Ingredients:

50ml white rum

1 tbsp sugar

Juice of 1 lime

A handful of fresh mint leaves

Soda water

Ice

Method:

Muddle the mint, sugar, and lime juice in a glass.

Fill the glass with ice, pour over the rum, and top with soda water.

Stir gently and garnish with a mint sprig.

2. Espresso Martini (UK)

A modern classic for coffee lovers.

Ingredients:

50ml vodka

25ml coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)

25ml freshly brewed espresso

Coffee beans (for garnish)

Ice

Method:

Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.

Strain into a chilled martini glass.

Garnish with 3 coffee beans.

3. Whisky Sour (USA)

A smooth, tangy drink with a silky finish.

Ingredients:

50ml bourbon or Scotch whisky

25ml lemon juice

15ml sugar syrup

Optional: egg white for froth

Ice and a cherry or orange slice to garnish

Method:

Shake all ingredients (dry shake first if using egg white, then with ice).

Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.

Garnish with a cherry or orange slice.

4. French 75 (France)

Elegant and bubbly – perfect for celebrations.

Ingredients:

25ml gin

15ml lemon juice

10ml sugar syrup

Champagne or sparkling wine

Lemon twist for garnish

Method:

Shake gin, lemon juice, and syrup with ice.

Strain into a flute and top with Champagne.

Garnish with a lemon twist.

5. Bramble (UK)

A fruity and floral modern British classic.

Ingredients:

40ml gin

15ml crème de mûre (blackberry liqueur)

20ml lemon juice

10ml sugar syrup

Ice and fresh blackberries to garnish

Method:

Shake the gin, lemon juice, and sugar syrup with ice and strain into a glass with crushed ice.

Drizzle the crème de mûre over the top.

Garnish with blackberries and a lemon slice.

Cocktail-Making Tips for Beginners

Invest in the basics: A shaker, jigger, and strainer can make a big difference.

Fresh is best: Use fresh fruit juices and herbs where possible.

Taste and tweak: Don’t be afraid to adjust sweetness, acidity, or strength to your liking.

Celebrate Safely

Whether you're celebrating solo, hosting friends, or toasting virtually, remember to enjoy responsibly. You can also try non-alcoholic versions or use quality alcohol-free spirits for an inclusive celebration.

Cheers to World Cocktail Day – and happy mixing!