The Ultimate Guide to Mastering Cocktails at Home with Mishela!

The Sidecar brings together Cognac, Cointreau, and fresh Lemon Juice to create a perfectly balanced drink that's officially recognized by the IBA. The golden amber color comes from the Cognac base, while the sugar rim adds a touch of sparkle and fun to its classic look in a Coupe glass.

Taking your first sip, you'll notice how the drink moves smoothly from sweet to sour - the Cointreau brings orange sweetness upfront, followed by the warm, rich Cognac, and finishing with a bright citrus kick from the Lemon Juice. Despite its strong spirit base, the citrus keeps it refreshing and surprisingly easy to drink.

Served straight up (without ice) in a chilled glass, the Sidecar shows off its silky texture best when really cold. The sugar rim isn't just for show - it adds an extra sweet touch that balances out the tart lemon, and gives your lips a little treat with each sip.

This cocktail shines as an aperitif thanks to its citrus punch and dry finish that gets your taste buds ready for dinner. It's equally good after a meal though, as the Cognac base gives it that digestif quality. While most popular in fall and winter due to the warming Brandy, its citrus zip makes it a year-round option.

The Sidecar works great at both casual and fancy occasions - it's equally at home at a dinner party or a high-end bar. Its simple yet sophisticated profile makes it a hit at cocktail parties where people want something more interesting than a basic mixed drink but not too wild or experimental. Plus, that sugar rim always catches people's eye and gets them asking what you're drinking.

The Manhattan cocktail is one of those rare drinks that embodies sophistication in just a few sips. It’s all about balance – the right mix of Whiskey, Sweet Vermouth, and Bitters gives it that unmistakable richness, while a garnish of cherries or an orange twist adds the perfect finishing touch.

Sip by sip, the Manhattan reveals a flavour profile that’s both sweet and slightly bitter, with a warmth that lingers on the palate. Unlike many other cocktails that aim to be easy-going, the Manhattan is unapologetically bold, standing its ground among simpler drinks and showing off its complex layers.

In many ways, the Manhattan is a cocktail that’s as much about its character as it is about taste. It’s often the go-to for those who enjoy a serious drink with a story, and it’s a favourite of bartenders looking to impress with a classic touch. If you’ve ever had one, you know – the Manhattan is unforgettable.

Officially recognized as part of the IBA list of approved cocktails under The Unforgettables category.

The Breakfast Martini stands as a brilliant example of modern classic cocktails, proving that innovation in mixology can come from the most unexpected places, even the breakfast table. This clever concoction transforms ordinary Marmalade into liquid gold, creating a sophisticated serve that's simultaneously familiar and exciting.

What makes this cocktail truly special is its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and bitter notes. The Gin provides a robust botanical foundation, while Orange Marmalade adds both sweetness and complexity. Fresh Lemon Juice brightens everything up, and Orange Liqueur rounds out the edges with its refined citrus notes.

Unlike its cousin, the Classic Martini, the Breakfast Martini offers a more approachable and playful personality. The marmalade adds a subtle texture and depth that makes each sip a delightful discovery. It's particularly impressive how the drink maintains its sophistication while incorporating such a humble breakfast ingredient.

This cocktail has earned its place in the modern cocktail pantheon by demonstrating that inspiration can strike at any time, even during morning toast and marmalade.