A built-in-the-glass recipe not only makes for an efficient cocktail but it also acts as an invitation to experiment. In minimalist formulas from the Milano-Torino to Scotch and coconut water, the template can be a master class in homing in on one’s own tastes and preferences. Whether that drink is made bubbly with tonic water or accented with amaro, these easy cocktails require little preparation other than gathering your ingredients of choice.
To personalize your own, here are 18 simple recipes to get started.
Milano-Torino
This two-ingredient cocktail represents the blueprint for a number of aperitivo classics.
Ranch 616 Ranch Water
The West Texas staple was born from adding bubbly Topo Chico to extend the life of his margarita.
Frangelico Old-Fashioned
This Old-Fashioned tweak substitutes the required sugar for Frangelico.
Vintage Coco
A citrusy spin on the classic Caribbean combination of Scotch and coconut water.
Sarah Morrissey’s Gin & Tonic
A Spanish-style G&T with an unconventional ice garnish.
Powerful Baritone
Scotch and amaro shine in this Penicillin variation.
Americano 2.0
The classic rebooted with a few subtle tweaks.
Imperial Opal
Anise-flavored Ojen stacks atop absinthe, swizzled with yellow Chartreuse.
Suze and Tonic
An uncomplicated low-ABV alternative to the gin and tonic.
Seven Seas Swizzle
A mash-up of the Queen Park Swizzle and classic punch.
Bicicletta
A mix of Italy's favorite early evening refreshments—Campari and white wine.
Mezcaletti
Mezcal and Amaro Meletti—need we say more?
Calvados & Tonic
France’s answer to the G&T.
Seven Hills
Cocchi Americano and Amaro CioCiaro meet up.
Boardwalk Flyer
Aged cachaça, vermouth and banana liqueur, all swizzled together into a perfect beach drink.
Dan Sabo’s Mojito
Dan Sabo's simplified version of the Mojito is built in a Collins glass over crushed ice.
