Cocktails have been around for centuries Some of the earliest recipes were created out of necessity—whether to mask the harshness of bootleg spirits, preserve ingredients, or even as medicinal remedies. But over time, these drinks gained popularity, many becoming staple favourites or the foundation for modern cocktails known today.

Whisky played a key role in early mixology, often used as the base spirit thanks to its depth of flavour and worldwide popularity. And as one of the original whisky producers in Scotland, we know a thing or two about making exceptional drinks.

From legendary New Orleans creations to Prohibition-era staples, let’s take a look at some of the world’s oldest cocktails, their origins, and how you can make them at home with The Glenlivet.

The Old Fashioned is one of the earliest known cocktails, dating back to the early 19th century where its popularity travelled from Louisville to New York, cementing its status as an American classic.

It was originally referred to as a “whisky cocktail”, following the classic formula of spirit, sugar, bitters and water. But as bartenders began experimenting with new ingredients, some patrons preferred the original style, leading to the name “Old Fashioned.”

Thanks to its longstanding history, many Old Fashioned variations have become classics in their own right, with different whiskies and sweeteners used to enhance its depth. In our Old Fashioned cocktail recipe, we swap bourbon for our 12 Year Old single malt scotch for an even smoother serve.

The Whisky Sour is believed to have originated in the mid-1800s, with the first written recipe appearing in Jerry Thomas’s 1862 Bartender’s Guide. However, the concept of mixing whisky with citrus dates back even further, as sailors would add lemon juice to spirits to prevent scurvy. This practical drink evolved into a well-balanced cocktail that remains a favourite to this day.

Over time, the Whisky Sour has spawned countless variations, including the use of egg white for a velvety texture. You can try the traditional version with our Whisky Sour recipe or experiment with fruitier twists like the Blackberry Whisky Sour.

The Boulevardier is often described as the whisky lover’s answer to the Negroni, yet these two drinks were actually invented at a similar time. Created in the 1920s by American expat Erskine Gwynne, who published Boulevardier magazine in Paris, the drink swaps gin for whisky while keeping the signature blend of sweet vermouth and Campari.

This elegant yet bold cocktail remains a favourite for those who enjoy a bittersweet edge. Experience its refined depth with our Boulevardier recipe.

The Aviation first appeared in 1916, created by Hugo Ensslin, head bartender at the Hotel Wallick in New York. Its original recipe included gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette and lemon juice, giving it a distinct floral and citrus profile.

Over time, the Aviation fell out of favour, partly due to the scarcity of crème de violette, but it has seen a resurgence in recent years as classic cocktails make a comeback. Many modern versions omit the floral liqueur, but purists still enjoy it as originally intended.

Milk Punch dates back to at least the 1600s, with records of it appearing in England before becoming a popular staple in New Orleans. Unlike creamy eggnog-style drinks, this clarified punch uses milk, sugar and spirits to create a smooth yet potent drink.

It was a favourite of Benjamin Franklin and remains a classic in cocktail history. Try a modern Scotch twist with Scotch Milk Punch, dusted with nutmeg to create the perfect seasonal serve.

The Sidecar is thought to have been created in Paris or London around World War I, with a popular story crediting its invention to an American army captain who frequently arrived at his favourite bar in a motorcycle sidecar. The drink blends Cognac, orange liqueur and lemon juice for a crisp, well-balanced serve.

For a whisky-based twist on this classic, try our Sherry Side Kick, which blends the original recipe with a Cameron’s Kick to create a short, nutty sour.

Accounts differ, but most experts agree that the Sazerac was one of the first cocktails recognisable by name. Created in New Orleans in the mid-1800s, it was originally made with Cognac before rye whisky became the standard base spirit. The drink was named after Sazerac de Forge et Fils, a brand of Cognac popular in the city at the time.

The defining element of the Sazerac is the absinthe rinse, which adds an aromatic complexity. A sugar cube, bitters and a lemon twist complete this no-nonsense drink, which remains a staple in New Orleans and beyond.

A descendant of the Mint Julep, the Whisky Smash emerged in the late 19th century as a refreshing combination of whisky, lemon, mint and sugar. It was first recorded in Harry Johnson’s Bartender’s Manual in 1888 and was intended to be an easygoing, summer-friendly serve.

Try our Scotch Whisky Smash recipe which highlights the bright, herbaceous notes of the original drink. Or take a look at our favourite Whisky Smash variations to find your favourite twist for summer.

The Gin Fizz is one of the oldest recorded fizz-style cocktails, with the first written recipe appearing in the late 1800s. Combining gin, lemon, sugar and soda water, it became a favourite in New Orleans, particularly with the addition of egg white, which gave it a frothy texture.

The most famous variation, the Ramos Gin Fizz, is known for its labor-intensive shaking method, but the classic Gin Fizz remains a refreshing and simple staple.

The Manhattan is one of the most enduring classic cocktails, with its origins dating back to the late 1800s. The most popular story credits its invention to a bartender at the Manhattan Club in New York City in the 1870s, supposedly created for a banquet hosted by Winston Churchill’s mother.

The drink’s simple combination of whisky, sweet vermouth and bitters set the standard for stirred cocktails. And it has inspired many classic cocktails since, including the Rob Roy and the Brooklyn. Our Maraschino Cherry Manhattan is another popular variation with an added hit of sweet ripe cherry.

The Margarita is one of the most iconic tequila cocktails, with disputed origins dating back to the 1930s or 40s. Some claim it was created by a bartender in Tijuana, while others attribute it to socialite Margarita Sames, who supposedly mixed it for her guests in Acapulco.

Whether blended or on the rocks, the combination of tequila, lime and orange liqueur continues to be a crowd-pleaser.

The Whisky Highball is a minimalist classic that dates back to the late 19th century. It’s particularly popular in Japan, where the careful art of crafting a perfect Highball has become a cultural tradition. The drink consists of whisky and soda water, served over ice, allowing the whisky’s flavours to shine through with a refreshing finish.

Simple yet effective, the Highball remains a go-to serve for whisky lovers. Try it yourself with our classic mix of Scotch & Soda.

The Paloma is one of Mexico’s most beloved tequila cocktails, though its exact origins are unclear. Some believe it was named after the Spanish word for “dove,” while others attribute its creation to Don Javier Delgado Corona, a bartender in Jalisco.

Traditionally made with tequila, grapefruit soda and lime, the Paloma is a refreshing alternative to the Margarita. Try a whisky spin on this classic with our Grapefruit Paloma recipe, made with The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve for extra smooth creaminess.

The Daiquiri originated in Cuba in the late 1800s and was reportedly named after a beach near Santiago. American engineer Jennings Cox is credited with creating the drink when he mixed rum, lime juice and sugar to refresh his workers.

This simple yet elegant cocktail became a favourite of Ernest Hemingway and remains one of the most well-known rum drinks worldwide. Over the years, frozen and flavoured versions have emerged, but the classic remains the gold standard.

The Hot Toddy has been a winter staple for centuries, with roots tracing back to Scotland and Ireland. Originally used as a warming remedy for colds and chills, it combines whisky, hot water, honey and spices to create a soothing drink that’s perfect for the cooler months.

Many variations exist, with some recipes calling for tea, citrus, or additional liqueurs. Whether enjoyed for its comforting qualities or as a nightcap, the Hot Toddy remains a timeless classic.

The Mojito dates back to 16th-century Cuba, where it was initially known as “El Draque,” named after English pirate Sir Francis Drake. The original version used aguardiente (a precursor to rum), lime, mint, sugar, and water. When rum production improved, the drink evolved into what we now recognise as the Mojito.

Refreshing and easy to drink, the Mojito’s popularity has never faded, making it a staple at bars around the world.

The world’s oldest cocktails have stood the test of time, each one offering a glimpse into the history of mixology. Whether you prefer a stiff Sazerac, a soothing Hot Toddy, or a refreshing Highball, these classic drinks prove that good cocktails never go out of style.

Looking to sip on history? Start with a traditional recipe—or put your own twist on one using our vast collection of whisky cocktails from classic serves to unique whisky drinks.