What is a cocktail?

Cocktails are mixed drinks: it is that simple! (Well, not that simple, as plain liqueurs and spirits are often served as ‘cocktails’ these days — and why not?)

Cocktails as we know them have been around since the early nineteenth century. There is debate about where the expression ‘cocktail’ came from – possibly a term used to describe a type of horse with a docked tail, or from a particular rooster-shaped drink dispenser.

One thing is certain: that in the twentieth century cocktail culture came into its own. Knowing how to make, order and drink cocktails is very very good, even if you prefer not to drink alcohol.

People are often defined in terms of the drinks they choose. This includes popular characters: imagine James Bond without his Vodka Martini, Carrie Bradshaw without her Cosmopolitan or Maxwell Smart without his Gibson!

Think about it: which cocktail defines you?

Blossom recommends that you develop a taste for some of the classics, modern and vintage alike. Some cocktails are classier than others: screen sirens and matinee idols do not drink Orgasms!

Importantly, do try never, ever to order one of those drinks that has a crude rude name: you know the ones. Not only are the drinks generally nasty, overly sweet concoctions suitable only for those who are not acclimatized to decent alcohol, but it is not at all charming to perpetuate the evil that was thus inflicted on the Cocktail Culture of the 20th century. Remember that your cocktail choice can define your public persona!

There are literally thousands of recipes in circulation and more being created every day. Why not learn a few mixing techniques and have a go at creating your own?

It is wise to get a feel for your own preferred style of drink, and learn how they are made and ordered, to avoid Bad Cocktail Experiences.

Working your way through the cocktail list in order, or trying too many different varieties in one night, is pretty much a guaranteed Bad Cocktail Experience.

Blossom recommends that all charming people should learn how to mix and order a small repertoire of classics and modern favourites. You will find some of her favourites added here from time to time.

Don’t forget ‘mocktails’ – delicious mixed drinks that do not contain alcohol should be provided at every function and half-decent cocktail bar.