Stuck for ideas? These combinations are dependable starting points, not rules. Start here, then follow your own taste. To print it, use your browser’s Print command (Ctrl+P on Windows, Command+P on a Mac).
Spirits and their best partners
| Spirit | Sodas and tonics | Juices | Liqueurs and extras | Garnish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vodka | Club soda, tonic, ginger beer, lemon-lime | Cranberry, orange, lemon, lime, grapefruit, tomato | Coffee, orange, berry, peach | Lime or lemon wheel |
| Gin | Tonic, club soda | Lemon, lime, grapefruit | Dry vermouth, elderflower, orange | Lime, cucumber, rosemary |
| White rum | Club soda, cola, lemon-lime | Lime, pineapple, orange | Orange, coconut, mint and sugar | Lime, mint, pineapple wedge |
| Dark or spiced rum | Ginger beer, cola | Lime, pineapple, orange | Coffee, coconut, allspice | Lime, orange slice |
| Tequila | Grapefruit soda, club soda, ginger beer | Lime, grapefruit, pineapple, orange | Orange, agave syrup | Lime, salt rim |
| Bourbon or rye | Ginger ale, club soda, cola | Lemon, apple cider | Sweet vermouth, bitters, honey | Orange peel, cherry |
| Scotch (unpeated) | Club soda, ginger ale | Lemon | Honey, ginger | Lemon peel |
| Brandy | Ginger ale | Lemon, apple | Orange, cream, coffee | Orange peel, nutmeg |
Five two-ingredient drinks anyone can make
Fill a glass with ice, add 1 1/2 to 2 oz of spirit, and top with 4 to 6 oz of mixer:
- Gin and tonic, with a lime wedge
- Vodka and cranberry (a Cape Codder)
- Dark rum and ginger beer, with lime
- Bourbon and ginger ale
- Tequila and grapefruit soda, with lime and a pinch of salt
From Spirited Snowbirds, spiritedsnowbirds.com. A hobby guide for adults 21 and over. Please drink responsibly.