Back in Time Today
The ’60s and ’70s weren’t just about bell bottoms, shag carpets, and disco balls—they were also the golden age of cocktail culture. From atomic-age lounges to smoky tiki bars, these decades mixed up some seriously bold and funky drinks. Whether you remember them from wild house parties or vintage menus, here are 22 cocktail trends from that far-out era that you probably forgot ever existed.
1. Harvey Wallbanger
The Harvey Wallbanger was everywhere in the ’70s. Its boozy blend of vodka, orange juice, and Galliano was synonymous with the decade’s party culture. This cocktail was not only delicious but also had a groovy mascot that made it unforgettable. Served tall, it was often the centerpiece of gatherings around the era’s iconic shag carpets. Its catchy name and unique taste ensured its place in cocktail history. Truly, a drink to remember.
2. Grasshopper
The Grasshopper, with its creamy, minty essence and striking green hue, was a true hit in the ’70s. This dessert cocktail was beloved by sweet-toothed partygoers who were drawn to its indulgent nature. The Grasshopper was not only a drink but an experience. Served in elegant glassware, it perfectly complemented the decade’s penchant for bold colors and flavors. Its popularity didn’t just stem from its taste but also its ability to transform any evening into a memorable occasion.
3. Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander was elegance in a glass, offering a velvety, chocolatey blend with brandy and cream. A throwback to old-school glamour, it was perfect for those sophisticated soirées of the ’70s. It harked back to a time when drinks were as much about presentation as they were about flavor. Its rich taste and smooth texture made it a favorite for those looking to indulge in a touch of class and nostalgia.
4. Pink Squirrel
The Pink Squirrel, as whimsical as its name suggests, was a delightful concoction of crème de noyaux, crème de cacao, and cream. Essentially a boozy milkshake, its vibrant pink color was the epitome of the playful spirit of the ’70s. This cocktail was a celebration in every sip, bringing smiles to partygoers with its sweet, nutty taste. Whether served at a retro-themed party or a casual gathering, the Pink Squirrel added a touch of fun and nostalgia. It was as much about the experience as it was about the drink itself.
5. Tequila Sunrise
A riot of colors, the Tequila Sunrise captured the spirit of poolside parties in the ’70s with its gradient of orange juice and grenadine over tequila. Rockstars like The Rolling Stones couldn’t resist its charm, making it a staple at their events. Its visual appeal was undeniable, often mirrored in the vibrant outfits and lively tunes of the era. The Tequila Sunrise wasn’t just a drink; it was an emblem of carefree summer days and nights filled with laughter. A sip transported you to a world where everything was a little brighter.
6. Mai Tai Mania
Tiki culture in mid-century America saw the Mai Tai reigning supreme, served in novelty mugs with paper umbrellas. The cocktail’s tropical flair was a hit, transporting drinkers to exotic locales with each sip. The Mai Tai’s blend of rum, lime, and orgeat syrup captured the adventurous spirit of the time. It wasn’t just a cocktail; it was an escape, a mini-vacation in a glass that captured the imagination.
7. Blue Hawaiians
The Blue Hawaiian was a head-turner at every retro cocktail party with its vibrant hue from Blue Curaçao. Blended with pineapple and coconut, it was the embodiment of tropical cool. The drink’s striking appearance often matched the loud, colorful fashion of the ’70s. Served in a chilled glass, it was more than just a beverage; it was a statement piece. The Blue Hawaiian represented a carefree, island-inspired lifestyle, whisking drinkers away to sun-soaked beaches and swaying palm trees. Each sip was a taste of paradise.
8. Rusty Nail
The Rusty Nail, a mix of Scotch and Drambuie, was the sophisticated choice for the swankiest lounges in the ’60s. This cocktail wasn’t about flashy colors or exotic tastes, but rather a refined blend of flavors that appealed to a mature palate. The Rusty Nail was understated yet bold, representing a classic era of cocktails where simplicity and taste were paramount. A drink best enjoyed slowly and with appreciation.
9. Tom Collins Comeback
The Tom Collins made a major resurgence in the ’60s, thanks to its crisp and fizzy nature. A gin-based highball, it was the ideal refreshment for cocktail lounges across the country. Its simple ingredients—gin, lemon juice, sugar, and carbonated water—came together to create a timeless classic. The drink’s effervescence and tangy flavor made it a popular choice for those seeking something light yet sophisticated.
10. White Russians
The White Russian, creamy and coffee-flavored, came into its own in the ’70s and has since become a cult favorite. The cocktail’s cool, laid-back vibe was mirrored in its simple ingredients: vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream. Imagine lounging in a retro living room, The Big Lebowski on the TV, and a White Russian in hand. Its smooth, rich taste was perfect for those looking to unwind in style. The drink’s cultural impact was as significant as its flavor, making it iconic in both film and mixology.
11. Sloe Gin Fizz
The Sloe Gin Fizz, fruity and fizzy with a hint of tartness, was particularly popular among younger drinkers of the ’70s. Made with sloe gin, lemon juice, and soda water, it was both refreshing and slightly sweet. Think of a sunlit garden party, with guests enjoying this light, bubbly drink. Its vibrant red color and effervescent nature made it a standout choice for those seeking a fun, easygoing cocktail. The Sloe Gin Fizz was not just a drink but a celebration of youthful exuberance and carefree afternoons.
12. Frozen Daiquiris
In the ’70s, frozen daiquiris became a staple, especially in strawberry or banana flavors. The rise of blenders and beach vibes made these icy treats incredibly popular. The refreshing chill of the drink, combined with its fruity taste, was irresistible. Whether sipped poolside or at a casual party, frozen daiquiris brought a slice of tropical paradise to any occasion. Their easy preparation and delightful taste made them a beloved choice for many.
13. Singapore Sling
The Singapore Sling, an exotic gin cocktail with cherry brandy and citrus, added international flair to the home bar. This drink was a journey in a glass, transporting imbibers to the bustling streets of Singapore. Its vibrant flavor profile and striking appearance made it a favorite among those seeking something different. The cocktail was not just a drink but an experience, a blend of cultures and tastes that captured the imagination.
14. Amaretto Sours
The Amaretto Sour, with its sweet, nutty, and citrusy notes, became a sugary crowd-pleaser in the ’70s disco scene. Made with amaretto, lemon juice, and often a splash of simple syrup, it was both refreshing and indulgent. The drink’s balance of flavors made it a go-to choice for partygoers looking to enjoy a sweet escape. Its popularity was a testament to the era’s love for bold, sugary delights.
15. Tiki Everything
Beyond Mai Tais, the tiki boom of the ’70s gave rise to a variety of exotic cocktails like Zombie Punches and Scorpion Bowls. Flaming drinks doubled as table centerpieces, adding drama to tropical-themed gatherings. The spectacle of flaming drinks and elaborate presentations was as much a part of the experience as the flavors themselves. Tiki culture offered an escape into a world of fun and fantasy.
16. Bartending Gadgets
The ’70s saw the rise of electric cocktail mixers, novelty shakers, and themed glassware, turning mixology into a full-on hobby at home. Bartending gadgets became essential for anyone looking to impress guests with their cocktail-making prowess. These tools not only made crafting cocktails easier but also added a touch of flair to any gathering. Bartending became an art, with gadgets as the artist’s tools.
17. Galliano Obsession
Galliano, with its distinctive herbal kick and tall, slender bottle, became a go-to liqueur in the ’70s. It wasn’t just for Harvey Wallbangers; its dramatic appearance and unique flavor made it a favorite in various cocktails. The liqueur’s versatility and striking presence made it a must-have for any sophisticated gathering. Galliano was more than just an ingredient; it was a symbol of the era’s bold, adventurous spirit.
18. Sour Mix Overload
In the ’70s, pre-made sour mix became a bar staple, adding a neon tang to everything from Margaritas to Long Island Iced Teas. This convenience product revolutionized cocktail making, allowing bartenders to whip up drinks with ease. Its bright, tangy flavor profile was both a blessing and a challenge, as drinks became sweeter and more vibrant. The widespread use of sour mix marked a shift towards convenience and consistency in cocktail culture.
19. Flavored Liqueurs
Flavored liqueurs like crème de menthe, crème de banana, and peach schnapps exploded in popularity in the ’70s. These sweet concoctions helped bartenders create dessert-like drinks in every shade of the rainbow. The rise of flavored liqueurs brought a new level of creativity to mixology, enabling the creation of unique, memorable cocktails that delighted the senses and the imagination.
20. Cocktail-on-the-Rocks Craze
In the ’70s, many classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour were simplified for easy sipping over ice. This trend, known as the “cocktail-on-the-rocks” craze, emphasized convenience and enjoyment. The focus was on the quality of the ingredients and the pure taste of the cocktail. This approach to serving cocktails allowed for a more casual, yet still sophisticated, drinking experience that appealed to a wide audience.
21. Brunch Boozing Begins
The ’70s saw the rise of brunch culture, bringing Mimosas and Bloody Marys into the spotlight. These cocktails became synonymous with leisurely Sunday mornings, offering a delightful start to the day. The blend of citrus, champagne, and spices provided a refreshing contrast to traditional breakfast fare. Brunch boozing was more than a trend; it was a lifestyle that embraced relaxation and indulgence in equal measure.
22. Home Bars as Status Symbols
In the ’70s, the in-home bar became a must-have for stylish entertainers, with custom wood cabinetry, mirrored backdrops, and rotating liquor carousels. These home bars were symbols of sophistication and social prowess. The home bar wasn’t just a place to mix drinks; it was a statement of elegance and hospitality. Owning a well-appointed bar was a mark of status, reflecting the owner’s taste and social standing.