How to Make Classic 1920s Cocktails: Recipes for the Gin Rickey, Bee's Knees & Sidecar

Step Back Into the Roaring Twenties with These Timeless Drinks

The 1920s was a golden age of cocktails, thanks in part to Prohibition pushing bartenders to get creative with flavors and disguises. Whether you're hosting a party or just want to sip like a flapper or a mobster, these three classic cocktails are essential.

1. Gin Rickey

Ingredients:

  • 50ml Gin
  • 25ml Fresh lime juice
  • Soda water
  • Ice cubes
  • Lime wedge (for garnish)

Method: Fill a highball glass with ice. Pour in the gin and lime juice. Top up with soda water and stir gently. Garnish with a lime wedge.

2. Bee's Knees

Ingredients:

  • 50ml Gin
  • 20ml Fresh lemon juice
  • 15ml Honey syrup (honey diluted with equal part hot water)
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon twist (for garnish)

Method: Shake the gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup with ice in a cocktail shaker. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

3. Sidecar

Ingredients:

  • 50ml Cognac or brandy
  • 20ml Triple sec (or Cointreau)
  • 20ml Fresh lemon juice
  • Ice cubes
  • Optional: sugar rim and orange twist for garnish

Method: If desired, rub the rim of a cocktail glass with lemon and dip it in sugar. Shake the cognac, triple sec, and lemon juice with ice. Strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with an orange twist.

Enjoy the Spirit of the 1920s

These cocktails are simple yet elegant, just like the era they come from. Serve them at your next party to add a little Prohibition glamour and flavor.