7 Drinks from the 60s, 70s, and 80s That Should Make a Comeback: Sip Your Way Down Memory Lane
Ever feel like your cocktail choices have gotten a bit boring? If you’ve been sipping on the same modern drinks for ages, it might be time to shake things up with some retro favorites.
Why not explore some vintage cocktails from the 60s, 70s, and 80s? These old-school drinks bring a fun and nostalgic twist to your bar lineup, each with its unique flair and personality. From sweet and creamy concoctions to simple but refreshing classics, these drinks are more than ready for a modern revival.
1) Harvey Wallbanger
If you’ve never tried a Harvey Wallbanger, you’re missing out on a classic.
This drink first became popular in the 1970s.
It’s basically a fancy version of a screwdriver.
To make it, you need vodka, orange juice, and Galliano.
Start by filling a glass with ice and adding the vodka and orange juice.
Then, gently pour Galliano on top so it floats.
This gives the drink its unique look.
For garnish, use a slice of orange and a cherry.
The Harvey Wallbanger has a light, sweet, and slightly herbal taste.
It’s refreshing and easy to make at home.
You’ll find it’s a great conversation starter at parties.
2) Tequila Sunrise
You can’t talk about classic cocktails without mentioning the Tequila Sunrise.
This drink is a true icon of the 70s and 80s.
To make a Tequila Sunrise, you only need three ingredients: tequila, orange juice, and grenadine.
The magic happens when you pour the grenadine into a glass already filled with tequila and orange juice.
The grenadine slowly sinks to the bottom, creating a stunning sunrise effect.
Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry for that extra flair.
Legend has it that an early version of this drink was served at Agua Caliente Resort in Tijuana, Mexico during Prohibition.
It really took off in the 70s thanks to movies and rock stars.
The Tequila Sunrise’s bright colors and simple recipe make it perfect for any occasion.
Plus, it tastes as good as it looks, with the sweet grenadine balancing out the citrusy orange juice and strong tequila.
Next time you need a crowd-pleasing drink, consider making a Tequila Sunrise.
Its nostalgic charm and easy recipe will surely impress everyone.
3) Blue Hawaiian
The Blue Hawaiian is a fun and colorful drink that screams tropical vibes.
This cocktail mixes light rum, blue curaçao, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut.
When blended, it turns into a smooth and slushy treat.
This drink was invented in the 1950s but gained popularity in the 60s and 70s.
Imagine sipping on one of these by the pool or at a beach party!
To make a Blue Hawaiian, you can either shake the ingredients with ice or blend them for a frozen version.
Either way, it’s delicious.
For the complete look, don’t forget to garnish with a pineapple wedge and a cocktail umbrella.
If you love the taste of pina coladas, you will likely enjoy the Blue Hawaiian.
Its flavors of pineapple and coconut, mixed with the sweet blue curaçao, make it a hit at any gathering.
Give it a try and transport yourself to a tropical paradise.
4) Grasshopper
Picture this: a creamy, minty dessert in a glass.
That’s the Grasshopper.
This cocktail was created in New Orleans’ French Quarter bar, Tujague’s, way back in 1918.
It’s smooth, sweet, and has a flavor combo that’s hard to resist.
To make a Grasshopper, you mix white and green crème de menthe, white and dark crème de cacao, and heavy cream.
Shake it with ice until it’s frosty and strain it into a chilled glass.
For an extra touch, you can even grate some dark chocolate on top.
The Grasshopper had its heyday in the ’60s and ’70s but kind of faded away after that.
It’s the perfect drink to bring back for a retro-themed party or just when you’re craving something sweet and minty.
Plus, it’s green, so it stands out in the crowd of usual cocktails.
You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to make one.
Just a shaker, ice, and a strainer.
It’s pretty easy to whip up, making it a great choice for both cocktail newbies and seasoned pros.
When you take that first sip, you’ll see why this classic deserves a spot on today’s drink menu.
5) Singapore Sling
The Singapore Sling is a classic cocktail that dates back to the early 1900s.
This gin-based drink packs a punch with its fruity and complex flavors.
To make a Singapore Sling, you need gin, Benedictine, Grand Marnier, Heering cherry liqueur, pineapple juice, lime juice, and bitters.
Mix these in a shaker with ice until chilled.
Strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
Traditionally, the Singapore Sling is topped with a splash of soda water.
You can garnish it with a slice of pineapple, cherry, or even an orange slice.
This drink is known for its vibrant red-pink color.
It’s perfect for warm summer nights or any tropical-themed party.
If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re in for a treat!
6) Piña Colada
You might know the Piña Colada as the tropical, creamy drink that’s perfect for a hot summer day.
This drink first became popular in the 1960s and 1970s, thanks to its refreshing mix of pineapple, coconut cream, and rum.
The Piña Colada was even declared the national drink of Puerto Rico in 1978.
To make one, blend rum, pineapple juice, cream of coconut, and ice until smooth.
Pour it into a chilled glass, and garnish with a pineapple slice and a cherry.
Some recipes add a splash of lime juice for a little extra zing.
What’s great about the Piña Colada is its flexibility.
You can adjust the ingredients to match your taste.
Make it a little less sweet or add a bit more rum.
It’s a fun drink to experiment with.
So next time you’re looking for a nostalgic drink, give the Piña Colada a try.
It might just become your new favorite.
7) Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander is a creamy, smooth cocktail that became famous in the early 20th century.
It was super popular in the ’60s and ’70s.
You make it with cognac, dark crème de cacao, and heavy cream.
Shake these ingredients with ice until cold.
Then, strain it into a chilled cocktail glass or coupe.
Don’t forget the nutmeg! Grate a bit on top for that perfect finish.
This drink is both rich and indulgent, perfect for cozy evenings.
Try this old-school delight the next time you want a blast from the past.
It’s like dessert in a glass, and you’ll love it.
Cultural Significance of Vintage Drinks
Vintage drinks from the 60s, 70s, and 80s have left a lasting impact on both social settings and popular culture.
They shaped the way people interacted at parties and gatherings, and many of them became symbols in movies, music, and television.
Influence on Social Gatherings
Vintage cocktails weren’t just drinks; they were conversation starters.
The 60s brought drinks like the Brandy Alexander and the Manhattan, which gave parties a touch of urban sophistication.
People would gather around the bar, discussing the latest trends and appreciating the craft of the cocktail.
In the 70s, the party scene got wilder.
Drinks like the Between the Sheets became popular, reflecting the disco era’s energetic and flamboyant vibe.
These cocktails were perfect for clubs and house parties, where dancing and socializing were at their peak.
By the 80s, more vibrant and colorful drinks became the norm.
Think of cocktails like those mixed with Advocaat, which added a playful sweetness to any gathering.
Drinks during this decade were all about fun, often served in funky glasses with lots of ice and garnishes.
Iconic Pop Culture References
Throughout these decades, certain cocktails became iconic through their association with pop culture.
The Brandy Alexander featured in numerous films and TV shows, making it a symbol of elegance and class.
In the disco era, drinks like the Between the Sheets were often mentioned in songs and movies, capturing the hedonistic spirit of the time.
They were seen as drinks for those who wanted to live fast and party hard.
The 80s saw drinks like the Advocaat-based cocktails appearing in nostalgic TV shows and commercials.
These drinks became symbols of the time, reflecting the fun and carefree attitudes of the decade.
Familiarity with these cocktails can still bring back fond memories for many.
Vintage drinks didn’t just quench thirst; they told stories, set moods, and became memorable parts of many people’s lives.
Mixology Techniques From the Past
Mixology in the 60s, 70s, and 80s featured unique ingredients and preparation methods.
These techniques helped shape the cocktails of those decades and give them their distinct flavors and charm.
Classic Ingredients
Bartenders used a variety of classic ingredients to create iconic drinks. Fresh citrus juices like lemon, lime, and orange were staples, adding zesty notes to many cocktails.
Sweeteners like simple syrup and honey brought balance.
Creme de menthe and creme de cacao were popular.
These liqueurs added depth and sweetness. Herbs and spices such as mint, nutmeg, and cloves gave an aromatic twist.
Certain syrups, like the fruity Fassionola, were used in tropical Tiki drinks. Grenadine, with its rich red hue, was another common addition.
Preparation Methods
Classic preparation methods contributed significantly to the memorable cocktails. Shaking and stirring were primary techniques.
Shaking blends ingredients thoroughly and chills the drink.
It’s often used for cocktails with citrus juice or egg whites.
Layering drinks was an art form.
Bartenders would carefully pour each ingredient to create visually stunning drinks with distinct layers.
This technique was common in layered cocktails like the B-52.
Using muddled ingredients, like herbs or fruits, released their natural flavors.
This technique is still popular today, known for its simplicity and effectiveness.
Flaming drinks were a show-stopper, creating impressive presentations.
Bartenders would ignite high-proof spirits for a dramatic flair.