Lesser-Known Classic Cocktails: 3 Drinks You Should Meet

If you’re here, you probably already know about the most popular vodka drinks, including the Martini Cocktail. But what about its close cousin, the Vesper? Or a dramatic drink that was all the rage in the ‘70s? Check out these three iconic cocktails that may not be as well-known today — but they should be.

The Gypsy Queen

First served in New York in 1938, the Gypsy Queen was arguably one of the coolest cocktails around in the post-prohibition era. It contains vodka, Bénédictine (an herbal liqueur produced in France) and a dash of orange bitters.

This cocktail goes to show that there are some drinks that just won’t quite work without vodka. Gin would conflict with the rich, spicy notes of the Bénédictine. Whisky would be too rich. But vodka creates an amazing mouthfeel and provides an unbelievable complexity while retaining a lighter touch. Make the Gypsy Queen at home to experience it for yourself.

The Vesper Martini Cocktail

The Vesper Martini Cocktail first hit pop culture in an iconic spy series published in 1953. It was again referenced on the silver screen in the 2006 film adaptation. The recipe, invented by the debonair spy himself, calls for three parts gin, one part vodka and half a measure of Lillet, shaken well and garnished with a lemon peel. Our Vesper Martini Cocktail uses MARTINI & ROSSI® ambrato vermouth instead for a complex, slightly bitter and herbal serve.

The Flame of Love

The Flame of Love cocktail traces its roots back to the 1970s. It’s similar to a very dry Martini Cocktail, but it uses fino sherry instead of vermouth. And the garnish is especially unique — it ends with a flash of drama.

Made with two parts vodka and a wash of fino sherry, this legendary drink is served in a cocktail glass with a flamed orange peel. It showcases how well sherry works with a wheat vodka: it’s a nice substitute for the vermouth featured in martini cocktails with its light, bone-dry, briny and crisp character rounding off the citrus, baked-bread quality of the vodka.

Any of these classic but forgotten cocktails would be a great addition to your mixology repertoire. Make them at home and discover your new favorite, or look through all our recipes to find something else you’ll love.