Cocktail Time Capsules: Vintage Drinks Making a Comeback in 2025
Every few years, what’s old becomes new again, and the cocktail world is no exception. In 2025, a wave of nostalgia is bringing vintage drinks back into the spotlight, reimagined with modern twists and premium ingredients. From creamy dessert cocktails to Prohibition-era classics, these revived recipes offer a delicious glimpse into the past while proving timelessly stylish for today’s drinkers.
Here’s a closer look at vintage cocktails making a comeback this year—and why they’re worth rediscovering.
1. Grasshopper
Original Era: 1910s-1950s
This creamy, minty cocktail originated in New Orleans and became a dessert drink staple during the mid-20th century. Equal parts kitschy and indulgent, the Grasshopper is now being elevated with high-quality liqueurs and garnishes.
Classic Recipe:
1 oz crème de menthe
1 oz crème de cacao
1 oz heavy cream
Modern Twist: Swap heavy cream for oat milk or add a splash of espresso for a mocha-mint variation.
2. Brandy Alexander
Original Era: 1920s
Once a favorite of jazz-age cocktail enthusiasts, the Brandy Alexander is a rich and velvety drink that has been overshadowed by lighter, modern creations in recent decades. Its resurgence reflects a renewed appreciation for indulgent flavors.
Classic Recipe:
1 oz brandy
1 oz dark crème de cacao
1 oz heavy cream
Modern Twist: Infuse the brandy with vanilla or cinnamon to add depth, or replace the crème de cacao with a high-end chocolate liqueur.
3. Harvey Wallbanger
Original Era: 1960s-1970s
Named after a fictional surfer, this citrusy drink became wildly popular during the 1970s thanks to its catchy name and bright flavors. It’s making a comeback as bartenders play with the ratios and quality of ingredients.
Classic Recipe:
1.5 oz vodka
3 oz orange juice
0.5 oz Galliano (a sweet herbal liqueur)
Modern Twist: Replace standard orange juice with fresh blood orange juice for a winter-friendly update.
4. Pink Squirrel
Original Era: 1940s
The Pink Squirrel is a vibrant dessert cocktail made famous in Wisconsin supper clubs. Its whimsical name and creamy texture are perfect for drinkers seeking a bit of fun with their cocktails.
Classic Recipe:
1 oz crème de noyaux (almond-flavored liqueur)
1 oz white crème de cacao
1 oz heavy cream
Modern Twist: Substitute amaretto for crème de noyaux, and garnish with toasted almonds for added texture.
5. Singapore Sling
Original Era: 1910s
This tropical drink, first crafted at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore, is an intricate blend of sweet, sour, and herbal flavors. Its revival reflects a growing appreciation for classic tiki-style cocktails.
Classic Recipe:
1 oz gin
0.5 oz cherry liqueur
0.5 oz Cointreau
0.5 oz Benedictine
4 oz pineapple juice
0.5 oz lime juice
Dash of grenadine
Modern Twist: Use craft gin with botanical notes, and fresh grenadine made from pomegranate juice for a more natural sweetness.
6. Sidecar
Original Era: 1920s
This elegant, citrus-forward drink has never truly disappeared but is gaining new attention in 2025 as bartenders revisit its sophisticated simplicity.
Classic Recipe:
1.5 oz cognac
0.75 oz orange liqueur (e.g., Cointreau)
0.75 oz lemon juice
Modern Twist: Experiment with aged rum in place of cognac, or add a dash of bitters to enhance complexity.
7. Rob Roy
Original Era: 1890s
This Scotch-based cousin of the Manhattan offers a smoky, refined twist on a classic whiskey cocktail. As Scotch continues to grow in popularity, so too does the Rob Roy.
Classic Recipe:
2 oz Scotch whisky
1 oz sweet vermouth
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Modern Twist: Swap sweet vermouth for a blend of dry and sweet vermouths for a balanced take, or infuse the Scotch with herbs for added nuance.
Why These Cocktails Are Back
Nostalgia Meets Craftsmanship: Modern bartenders are revisiting these recipes with a focus on quality, from premium spirits to fresh, homemade mixers.
Visual Appeal: Many vintage cocktails, with their vibrant colors and elegant presentations, are Instagram-ready.
Desire for Comfort: Creamy, indulgent drinks like the Brandy Alexander and Grasshopper evoke a sense of warmth and familiarity that’s especially appealing in colder months.
Experience Vintage Cocktails Firsthand
Want to dive into the world of vintage cocktails? Join us for the Art of the Cocktail: Reposado Tequila Class on January 9th, 2025, at Sweetbriar in NYC. While we’ll focus on bold tequila creations, you’ll gain tips and techniques to elevate any drink—classic or modern.
Reserve your spot today and raise a glass to the past, present, and future of cocktail artistry.
