Crafted with love, skill and precision, classic cocktails have stood the test of time. Their allure lies in their balanced flavors and the artistry of mixology, and each has a story to tell. As you put the glass to your lips, you’re instantly transported to a bygone era of glamour and refinement. And to sip classic cocktails in some of the world’s most magnificent hotels just further elevates the experience.

To tantalize your palate and stir your wanderlust, we’ve selected some of our favorite classic cocktails, and paired them with some truly exquisite hotels.

Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest cocktails, dating back to the early 1800s. Exuding sophistication and simplicity, it embodies the essence of classic mixology with its straightforward, time-tested recipe.

The recipe typically calls for bourbon or rye whiskey, muddled sugar, aromatic bitters and a twist of citrus rind. Served over ice in a rocks glass, the Old Fashioned offers a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness, accentuated by the whiskey’s rich flavors.

There’s no better place to sit back and enjoy an Old fashioned than in the Southern United States, the birthplace of bourbon. And there’s no hotel quite like the Ritz Carlton in New Orleans.

Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, the Ritz Carlton epitomizes Southern elegance and charm. And the hotel’s bars feature skilled mixologists whose attention to detail and the use of high-quality ingredients ensures that each cocktail is a work of art.

While you enjoy your Old Fashioned, bartenders will share stories about the history of classic cocktails and the role of New Orleans in their evolution. So sit back, enjoy and see why this iconic drink has stood the test of time.

Sip an Old Fashioned at the Ritz Carlton on: Southern Grace

Read more: Why New Orleans’ Ritz Carlton Hotel is a cut above the rest

Negroni

Originating in Florence, Italy, the Negroni is closely linked to the Italian aperitivo culture. Legend has it that the cocktail was invented in the early 20th century when Count Camillo Negroni asked a bartender to strengthen his Americano by adding gin.

Brandishing a brilliant red hue and bittersweet flavor profile, the Negroni offers a combination of herbal, citrusy and aromatic notes. Its simple yet bold composition, traditionally equal parts gin, Campari and sweet vermouth, creates a perfectly balanced aperitif.

To enjoy your Negroni in the perfect setting, head to the Hotel Montebello Splendid. Centrally located in the heart of Florence, this elegant five-star hotel occupies a charming 19th-century villa that exudes glamour and grandeur.

The hotel’s rooftop pool bar offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence’s skyline. Enjoy your Negroni while basking in the sun against a stunning backdrop of Florence’s iconic landmarks, such as the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio and the surrounding Tuscan hills.

Savor a Negroni at the Hotel Montebello Splendid on: Ultimate Italy

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Sidecar

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While the exact origins of the Sidecar are somewhat disputed, the prevailing narrative credits its creation to Harry MacElhone, an American bartender who worked at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris.

According to the story, the Sidecar was allegedly invented around the end of World War I when a patron arrived at the bar in a motorcycle sidecar. The drink was then named after the vehicle. MacElhone is said to have refined the recipe, using Cognac or brandy, Cointreau, and lemon juice in equal parts, creating the classic Sidecar we know today.

A stunning Parisian setting to enjoy your Side Car, and other classic cocktails, is the St James. Paris’ only chateau hotel, this is an architectural jewel tucked away in the city’s most exclusive district, the 16th. Its bar is sumptuous, filled with greenery, wood paneling, cozy velvets and worn leathers. Renowned for its mixology, this is one of the ultimate meeting places in the city, for both Parisians and those from far flung places.

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Caipirinha

Refreshing and vibrant, the Caipirinha hails from Brazil and has become a very popular cocktail. It’s the national drink of Brazil and is deeply rooted in the country’s culture and traditions. Not only invigorating, it is hailed as one of the best classic cocktails for celebrating warm, sunny days.

The primary ingredient of a Caipirinha is cachaça, a Brazilian spirit made from sugarcane juice. Blended with lime and sugar, it is typically served over crushed ice. To prepare a Caipirinha, lime wedges are muddled with sugar in a glass, and then cachaça and ice are added. The result is a delightful balance of sweet, tart and boozy flavors. You can also enjoy numerous variations, with passion fruit or strawberries often used to mix it up.

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Where better to enjoy a glass that the Belmond Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Situated on the world-famous Copacabana Beach, the hotel has been an emblem of elegance and sophistication since its opening in 1923.

Its architecture reflects a blend of classical European style with touches of Brazilian charm, set behind an impressive façade. The interiors are adorned with exquisite furnishings and artwork. Relax, enjoy the sunshine and a Caipirinha, as numerous celebrities, politicians and dignitaries have done over the years.

Enjoy a Caipirinha at the Belmond Copacabana Palace on: Classic South America

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Manhattan

While it has become a global icon, the Manhattan has strong associations with the bustling borough of New York City. And for the most iconic setting to enjoy this classic cocktail head to the Park Lane New York hotel, and its Darling rooftop lounge. Located on the 47th floor, the Darling offers a stunning backdrop of the Manhattan skyline and an elevated cocktail menu.

It is said that the key to a perfect Manhattan lies in finding the right balance between the whiskey’s richness and the sweetness of the vermouth. The traditional recipe adds a few dashes of aromatic bitters, and its usually garnished with a maraschino cherry or a twist of orange peel. Over the years, variations of the Manhattan have emerged, with some people preferring bourbon instead of rye whiskey, or opting for dry vermouth to create a drier version.

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Martini

The Martini is one of the most iconic and enduring cocktails in the world of mixology. Made with gin and dry vermouth, stirred with ice, you’ll find it served in a chilled cocktail glass, garnished with a green olive or a twist of lemon peel.

A cocktail of strength and clarity, the exact origins of the Martini are somewhat debated. But historians believe that it evolved from a late 19th-century mix of gin and vermouth. Over the years, the Martini has inspired various interpretations and modifications. This has led to the creation of famous variations like the Vodka Martini, the Dirty Martini and the Gibson.

Literature, film, and popular culture have also celebrated the Martini. Most notably by James Bond, who famously ordered his martinis “shaken, not stirred.” More than worthy of a Bond moment, the Grand Hotel Quisisana on Italy’s Isle of Capri is an exquisite hotel in which to enjoy a sip of this classic cocktail.

5-star luxury in the heart of Capri town, the Quisisana is just a short walk from the famous Piazzetta. Surrounded by lush gardens and offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, it’s an enchanting retreat for the discerning traveler seeking elegance and relaxation.

Enjoy a Martini at the Quisisana Hotel on: Ultimate Italy

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Singapore Sling

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The origins of the Singapore Sling are associated with the Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. The cocktail was created by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon in the early 1900s, and quickly became a favorite among patrons. Today, the Singapore Sling remains a symbol of tropical indulgence and is enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.

This elegant cocktail is made a gin base spirit, along with pineapple juice, lime juice, cointreau and cherry liqueur. Some versions also include Bénédictine, grenadine, and Angostura bitters. Reddish-pink, it is typically served over ice in a tall glass and garnished with a slice of pineapple and a maraschino cherry.

The Raffles Hotel Singapore is still one of the most iconic luxury hotels in Asia. And the Long Bar is still in service. Meaning you can still enjoy this historic cocktail in old-world grandeur, dreaming of days gone past.

To savor classic cocktails around the world, we invite you to take a look at our exquisite collection of small group luxury journeys.

Under the Tuscan sun, immerse yourself in fine vintages and fascinating conversation at the sublime Castello di Fonterutoli. Take a timeless journey with us to Italy on a Founder’s Collection departure and be personally welcomed into the home of La Famiglia Mazzei, the renowned Tuscan winemaking family.

An exclusive invitation from la Famiglia Mazzei

For over six centuries, ‘la Famiglia Mazzei’ has dedicated itself to winemaking, with a passion and commitment handed down from one generation to the next. In 1938, Ser Lapo Mazzei became known as the pioneer of Chianti Classico, as the author of the first document known to mention ‘Chianti.’ Then in 1435, when Ser Lapo’s granddaughter Madonna Smeralda Mazzei married Piero di Agnolo from Fonterutoli, the Castello di Fonterutoli estate became a family heritage.

Enjoy an exclusive lunch and wine-tasting with either Marchese Francesco Mazzei or his grandson Lapo Mazzei, at their centuries-old Tuscan estate. Through this intimate meet and greet, learn about the family themselves, their beautiful home, the Mazzei wine dynasty and how they are preserving the local eco system for future generations.

Experience this on a Founder’s Collection departure of Ultimate Italy

Castello di Fonterutoli

“My family has owned Castello di Fonterutoli since 1435, so for 25 generations. We’ve been living here forever, it’s our paradise,” Marchese Francesco Mazzei explains.

Set in the picturesque village of Fonterutoli, Castello di Fonterutoli is more than a winery. This small rural settlement is located in the heart of Chianti Classico between Florence and Siena and is considered one of the most important institutions of Chianti Classico and Tuscany.

Built at the end of the 1500’s, the Marchesi Mazzei have taken care to preserve the authentic charm and atmosphere of the village, and today it retains much of its original spirit. Cobbled paths, beautiful rustic buildings decorated by rose pink flowers and a strong community prevail. Visitors can enjoy a coffee in the village bar, a chat with the locals or, of course, sip some famous Castello di Fonterutoli wines.

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Ancestors celebrated through their wines

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The Mazzei family describe their wines as ‘the maximum expression of their terroirs.’ Maybe one of their most renowned products is the ‘Siepi’. Credited as ‘one of the 50 wines that changed Italy’s wine style’ this has been produced by the Mazzei family since 1435.

Much of the family history is told through its wines. With their outstanding ‘Chianti Classico Riserva’, the Marquis Mazzei celebrate their notable ancestor Ser Lapo, and a sublime vintage named ‘Philip’ is dedicated to Philip Mazzei (1730-1816). An illustrious ancestor and political thinker, together with Thomas Jefferson, Philip was a pioneer of the viticulture in Virginia.

Captivating stories and connections

As part of your visit, you will have the opportunity to see inside the impressive wine cellars. This vast space is taken up by thousands of barrels, all decorated with the Mazzei family’s official stamp. On your tour you will learn about the various vintages, and the barrelling process.

“If I could bring anyone here, past or present, it would have to be Thomas Jefferson. He was a real wine connoisseur,” Marchese Francesco Mazzei tells us. Jefferson also happened to be a close friend of Francesco’s ancestor, Filippo Mazzei, and was a Founding Father of the United States, contributing to the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

Filippo Mazzei is credited for being the inspiration behind one of its famous quotes: “All men are by nature equally free and independent. Such equality is necessary in order to create a free government,” something later acknowledged by President John F. Kennedy in his book, “A Nation of Immigrants”.

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Natural treatments in the vineyard

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Guaranteeing the stability of the ecosystem and its biodiversity is very important to the Mazzei family. At Castello di Fonterutoli and their other estates, they’ve eliminated chemicals for weeding and recycle their production waste (shoots, grape stalks, olive pomace, and horse manure) as organic fertilizer.

To reduce their carbon footprint and preserve of the surrounding landscape, they’ve adopted various methods, including their ledge-shaped terraced vineyards. This reduces erosion and preserves the heritage of the landscape.

Water is used carefully, including as a natural coolant for the wine cellar. Through the recycling of the fast flowing spring water through the rock walls of the cellar, no climate control system is required.

An elegant and intimate lunch

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Traditional Tuscan dishes, reinterpreted in a gourmet-style await you in the family’s osteria. This quaint restaurant, surrounded by stunning views of the rolling Tuscan countryside, is where Founder’s Collection guests enjoy an exclusive and delicious rustic meal during their trip to Castello di Fonterutoli.

Sip some more of the estate’s wines and dine on dishes made exclusively with fresh, seasonal local produce. Each plate respects the Tuscan heritage, with a particular eye to the wild game that roams wild in the estate’s meadows and woodlands.

With everyone looking forward to the crowning moment, one of the most iconic symbols of the British monarchy, the St. Edward’s Crown will take centre stage at the coronation of King Charles III this weekend. This magnificent crown has been worn by many monarchs during their coronation ceremonies, including HRH, the late Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. Made of solid gold and embellished with precious stones, its history dates back over a thousand years.

The role of the St. Edward’s Crown

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A monarch wears the St. Edward’s Crown just once in a lifetime, when the Archbishop of Canterbury places it on their head during the crowning moment of the coronation ceremony. For King Charles III, this will be during his coronation at Westminster Abbey in London on May 6.

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The crown is only worn for a short period of time during the service, after which it is replaced by the Imperial State Crown. This is the crown that the monarch wears to depart from the Abbey, and for all other crown-related moments throughout their reign.

For travel inspiration: England destination guide

A thousand years of history

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The St. Edward’s Crown was made for King Charles II in 1661, as a replacement for the medieval crown which had been melted down in 1649. The original crown can be traced back to the 11th century. It was thought to be first created for the crowning moment of the coronation of King Edward the Confessor in 1066.

Although not an exact replica of the medieval crown, it too features the four crosses-pattée and four fleurs-de-lis, and the two arches of the original design.

The crown is named after King Edward the Confessor, one of England’s most revered monarchs. He was known for his piety and was believed to have been able to perform miracles. Edward the Confessor was considered to be a saintly figure, and it was believed that the crown had the power to bestow divine blessings on the monarch who wore it.

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Dazzling jewels

444 precious and semiprecious gemstones adorn the crown’s gold frame. These include rubies, sapphires, topazes, garnets, amethysts and tourmalines. The solid gold frame weighs 2.23kg (nearly 5lbs).

The largest stone is the magnificent Black Prince’s Ruby. This large red gem is set in the Maltese cross in the front of the crown. In fact, it is not a ruby but is one of the world’s largest gem-quality red spinels, a polished lump 5 cm (2 inches) long, pierced and partly filled with a small ruby.

One of the oldest parts of the Crown jewels, the ruby has been in the possession of the British monarchs since 1367 when it was given to his namesake Edward of Woodstock, known as the Black Prince.

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A revered heritage

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A symbol of the United Kingdom and the enduring power and majesty of the British monarchy, when King Charles III wears the St. Edward’s Crown during the crowing moment of his coronation, he will be following in the footsteps of many of England’s greatest monarchs.

Six have been crowned with St. Edward’s Crown since the Restoration: Charles II (1661), James II (1685), William III (1689), George V (1911), George VI (1937) and Elizabeth II (1953).

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The Tower of London – home of the crown jewels

The St. Edward’s Crown is kept at the Tower of London and is one of the most precious objects in the royal treasury. This iconic Castle and UNESCO World Heritage site is famously home to the Crown Jewels. This is the most complete collection of Royal regalia in the world.

The Crown Jewels have been protected at the Tower of London since the 1660s. They are guarded by the iconic Yeoman Warders. These 32 men and women are drawn from the Armed Forces and go by the nickname of ‘Beefeaters.’

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The Crown Jewels are a working collection that is used at annual state occasions. This includes the annual State Opening of Parliament as well as at less frequent occasions, such as coronations. Included in the collection are the Coronation Regalia, most recently used at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. Along with the St. Edward’s Crown you have the Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross, the Sovereign’s Orb and the Coronation Spoon.

Ceremony of the Keys

An exclusive after-hours visit to the Tower of London is just one of the exclusive experiences that make up our British Royale tour. Set against a backdrop of the twinkling lights of the British capital, walk the castle grounds in privacy and serenity under the watchful eye of a Yeoman Warder.

You’re also invited to experience the historic Ceremony of the Keys. This is the oldest practiced military ceremony in the world in which the outer gates of the fortress are locked for the night. The keys are then delivered to the monarch’s representative in the Tower, the Resident Governor. Enjoy a memorable inside look at the 700-year-old tradition that has stood the tests of even the most tumultuous times.

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