The disco era is once again taking center stage, this time in the world of mixology. The 1970s were a time of unbridled fun, when people came together to dance the night away under flashing lights and savoring bold, bright cocktails. The disco culture was synonymous with parties, lights, and potent potables that added to the revelry. As the party scene heats up once more, it’s no surprise that disco-era cocktails are making a comeback.
These vibrant drinks were as much about visual flair as they were about flavor, boasting a riot of colors, glittering garnishes, and playful presentation. Bartenders in the 1970s were masters of experimentation, whipping up novel concoctions to wow their patrons. Recipes often featured an array of ingredients, from fruits and herbs to spices and other unexpected elements.
Glassware was often as important as the drink itself, with funky shapes and colorful decorations adding to the overall spectacle. If you’re looking to channel the spirit of Studio 54 or simply want to try something new, we’ve got you covered. We’ve gathered a selection of classic disco cocktail recipes that will transport you back to the decade of excess.
Elderflower Vodka Lemonade
Indulge in the perfect summer sipper with the Elderflower Vodka Lemonade, a refreshing cocktail that balances sweet and tangy flavors with subtle floral hints. This delightful concoction combines premium vodka with freshly squeezed lemonade, making it an ideal choice for warm-weather gatherings or impromptu soirees. For added effervescence, top it off with a splash of club soda.
With its unique blend of flavors, this cocktail is sure to become a summer staple and has quickly gained popularity among Disco Cocktail enthusiasts.
Melon Ball Cocktail
Imagine sipping on a refreshing cocktail that embodies the funky vibe of the 80s disco era. The Melon Ball Cocktail perfectly blends sweet honeydew melon liqueur with vodka and orange juice, resulting in a delightful drink that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eyes. Two succulent pieces of melon perched on a martini pick add an extra layer of visual appeal, making this cocktail a true showstopper. Whether you’re celebrating St.
Patrick’s Day or simply looking to impress your friends with a unique and delectable drink, the Melon Ball Cocktail is an excellent choice. Its sweet and tangy flavors are sure to transport you back to a time when disco ruled the dance floors, and its eye-catching presentation will leave your guests green with envy. So why not give this retro-inspired cocktail a try and experience the fun and glamour of the 80s all over again?
Summertime Spiked Lemonade
For a drink that’s as refreshing as a summer breeze, look no further than the revitalized classic – Summertime Spiked Lemonade. By infusing vodka with a medley of flavors, including club soda, maple syrup, and fresh berries, this summertime staple is transformed into a fizzy, sweet, and vibrantly colored concoction that’s ideal for hot days spent lounging by the pool or dancing the night away at an outdoor party. And the best part?
This recipe can be easily adapted to create a kid-friendly version for non-drinkers or younger revelers, making it accessible to all.
Old Cuban Cocktail
In the early 2000s, renowned bartender Audrey Saunders revolutionized the world of mixology by crafting the Old Cuban Cocktail, a masterful blend of two timeless classics: the Mojito and the French 75. This sophisticated concoction combines aged rum, fresh mint, zesty lime juice, and a splash of effervescent champagne to create a truly unique drinking experience.
The aged rum’s complex flavor profile boasts hints of vanilla, coconut, almond, citrus, and caramel, while the champagne adds a delightful bubble and refreshingly brightens the overall taste. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next gathering or simply seeking a novel cocktail to spice up your social calendar, the Old Cuban Cocktail is an absolute must-try for anyone who savors a well-crafted drink with a modern twist.
Cosmo
The Cosmo, a timeless cocktail staple, brings together the harmonious union of vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice. This tantalizing blend of sweet, sour, and tart flavors creates an invigorating and delectable experience that’s sure to delight any palate. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing pick-me-up at a party or a sophisticated accompaniment to a night out on the town, the Cosmo is a must-try for anyone seeking a delightful drinking experience.
Vodka Cooler
The Vodka Cooler is an ideal summer sipper that’s sure to impress at your next outdoor gathering. This revitalizing cocktail combines the crispness of vodka, the tanginess of lime juice, and the sweetness of simple syrup with the spicy kick of ginger beer. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
One of its greatest strengths lies in its versatility – it’s incredibly easy to prepare in large quantities, making it a perfect choice for hosting friends and family. Plus, you can effortlessly create a non-alcoholic version by omitting the vodka, without sacrificing any of its refreshing charm.
Whether you’re seeking a revitalizing drink to cool off during a summer party or simply looking for a new cocktail to add to your repertoire, the Vodka Cooler is an excellent choice that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Hippie Juice
With the arrival of warm weather, it’s time to break out the refreshing summer cocktails that never fail to impress. One such recipe is Hippie Juice, a delightful concoction that’s perfect for serving at gatherings and parties. What sets this cocktail apart is its ease of preparation – with just a few ingredients, you can whip up a large batch in no time. While variations abound, the core components remain consistent, making it accessible to bartenders of all skill levels.
The essence of Hippie Juice lies in its harmonious blend of vodka, triple sec, watermelon schnapps, lemon juice, and lemon-lime soda. This symphony of flavors is served over ice in a coupe glass or tumbler, allowing the refreshing qualities to shine through. To add an extra layer of sophistication, garnish with a sparkly rim sugar for a truly Instagram-worthy presentation.
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing drink that’s both revitalizing and delectable, Hippie Juice is an absolute must-try. Its simplicity belies its impact, making it an ideal choice for any social gathering or celebration.
Kamikaze
A staple of the disco era, the Kamikaze cocktail is a masterclass in balance and flavor. Combining vodka, triple sec, and lime juice, this refreshing drink doesn’t just quench your thirst, it also packs a punch with its substantial alcohol content. The harmonious blend of sweet and sour notes creates a tantalizing taste experience that’s sure to leave you wanting more. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix or a sophisticated sipper, the Kamikaze is an excellent choice for any occasion.
Champagne Jello Shots
Add a dash of sophistication to any celebration with these indulgent Champagne Jello Shots. Inspired by the French 75 cocktail, this refined twist combines sparkling wine, gin, and lemon juice for a truly grown-up treat. The crowning glory is a luxurious gold topping that elevates the presentation, making it an ideal choice for weddings, New Year’s Eve bashes, or any special occasion where you want to impress. What’s more?
These festive concoctions can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 10 days, ensuring they remain a showstopper at your next gathering, whether it’s a surprise soiree or an intimate get-together.
Dirty Shirley Drink
The Dirty Shirley Drink is an innovative spin on the classic Shirley Temple, ideal for those seeking a spirited twist on their usual bubbly beverage. This cocktail’s simplicity belies its depth of flavor, as vodka, triple sec, grenadine, and soda combine to create a delightfully complex drinking experience. The introduction of alcohol lends a sophisticated air, while the orange slice and maraschino cherry garnish adds an understated touch of refinement.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply desire a revitalizing drink, the Dirty Shirley Drink is sure to leave a lasting impression. So why not give it a try, and discover for yourself just how delectable and enjoyable this concoction can be?
Lychee Cranberry Gin Cocktail
In the realm of craft cocktails, the Lychee Cranberry Gin Cocktail stands out as a masterclass in balancing flavors. With only four essential ingredients – cranberry juice, gin, lychee juice, and carbonated water – this drink is simplicity itself to prepare. The harmonious union of sweet and tart notes from the lychee and cranberry, coupled with the crispness of the gin, yields a truly exceptional experience for those who appreciate a refined cocktail.
It’s an absolute must-try for anyone seeking a refreshing and sophisticated beverage.
Trans Pride Cocktail
The Trans Pride Cocktail is an innovative creation that embodies the spirit of the transgender community, showcasing a vibrant blend of blue, white, and pink hues. This show-stopping drink comprises three distinct components, each inspired by the colors of the iconic transgender flag: the Blue Lagoon Cocktail represents the blue stripe, the Gimlet Cocktail embodies the white, and the Cosmopolitan Cocktail symbolizes the pink.
When combined, these three flavors come together to form a truly unique and mouthwatering concoction that’s perfect for any Pride celebration or gathering. Its stunning appearance is matched only by its exceptional taste, making it an absolute must-try for anyone seeking a memorable and scrumptious Disco-inspired cocktail experience.
Pink Senorita Cocktail
Experience the essence of summer with the Pink Senorita Cocktail, a sweet and refreshing twist on the classic margarita. This vibrant concoction combines the tanginess of lemons with the sweetness of pink lemonade, creating a drink that’s perfect for sipping on a warm evening or sharing with friends during a girls’ night out. The soft, fruity flavor profile sets it apart from traditional margaritas, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer milder flavors.
When served at a disco-themed party, the drink’s bold pink hue adds to the lively and celebratory atmosphere. If you’re seeking a fun and festive cocktail to serve at your next gathering, the Pink Senorita Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
Champagne Margarita
The Champagne Margarita is an ideal choice for any celebration or gathering, its effervescent charm making it a perfect way to mark special occasions like New Year’s Eve or milestone birthdays. This revitalizing cocktail combines the zesty freshness of lime juice with the celebratory sparkle of champagne, creating a delightful drink that’s sure to impress.
To add an extra layer of sophistication, the rim of the glass can be garnished with sugar or salt, while a sprig of fresh lime adds a touch of elegance. For those who prefer their cocktails a bit sweeter, the addition of simple syrup or superfine sugar is a welcome indulgence. Overall, the Champagne Margarita offers a delectable and festive twist on the classic margarita, making it an excellent choice for any gathering where you want to toast in style.
Sloe Gin Fizz
Step into the retro era with the Sloe Gin Fizz, a timeless cocktail that exudes the essence of 1970s disco culture. Its vibrant reddish hue and light, revitalizing taste make it an ideal choice for any themed party or gathering seeking to capture the nostalgia of bygone decades.
A moderate alcohol content ranging from 15-30% depending on the brand provides an appealing balance between indulgence and refreshment, making this classic cocktail a must-savor experience for anyone eager to relive the spirit of yesteryear’s iconic bars.
Kalimotxo
Looking to make a lasting impression at your next disco party? The Kalimotxo cocktail, hailing from 1970s Spain, is the perfect choice. This unconventional blend of equal parts red wine and cola yields a richly flavored drink with notes of caramel and earthy undertones. While traditionally made with budget-friendly red wine, elevating the quality to a Spanish or Argentinian red takes the Kalimotxo to new heights.
For an added touch of elegance, consider adding a squeeze of lemon or an orange slice to temper the sweetness of the cola. With its unique flavor profile and simplicity in preparation, the Kalimotxo is an excellent option for anyone seeking a memorable and easy-to-make cocktail that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
The Golden Snitch Cocktail
The Golden Snitch Cocktail is an enchanting blend of flavors that will transport you straight into the wizarding world of Harry Potter. This captivating concoction combines apple cider, whiskey, St. Germain, lemon, maple, and spices to create a drink that’s as warm and inviting as a Hogwarts gathering on a chilly autumn evening.
As you sip this golden elixir, you’ll be treated to a delightful balance of sweet and spicy notes, with the whiskey providing a subtle kick and the ginger adding a satisfying depth. The cocktail cherry garnish, wrapped in edible gold leaf like the coveted Golden Snitch itself, adds a touch of whimsy and magic to each sip. Whether you’re hosting a Harry Potter-themed party or simply looking for a unique and delicious drink to serve your friends, this enchanting cocktail is sure to cast a spell.
Lavender French 75
Indulge in the elegance of the Lavender French 75, a captivating twist on the classic French 75 that will leave your guests mesmerized. This refined cocktail masterfully blends gin, champagne, lemon, and lavender, yielding a sweet and revitalizing taste perfect for any gathering. The homemade lavender simple syrup adds an additional layer of complexity, ensuring the drink remains crystal clear and visually stunning.
Whether you’re hosting an intimate soiree or simply enjoying a night in with friends, this cocktail is sure to impress. With its delicate balance of flavors, the Lavender French 75 is poised to become your new go-to choice.
Purple Gin + Tonics
Transforming your next disco party into a haunted spectacle has never been easier, thanks to the bewitchingly colorful Purple Gin + Tonics. The concoction’s key ingredients include tonic water, gin, lime, and acai powder, which infuses it with a mesmerizing purple hue and an added boost of nutrients. As you raise a glass, the specks of purple that dot the drink will leave your guests under its spell.
To amplify the eerie ambiance, simply add a chunk of dry ice to create a smoking effect reminiscent of a haunted laboratory. This bewitching beverage is perfect for Halloween or any disco-themed soiree, ensuring that your partygoers will be enchanted and impressed by this one-of-a-kind drink.
Color Changing Shimmery Phoenix Cocktail
A mesmerizing concoction, the Color Changing Shimmery Phoenix Cocktail is an enchanting blend that will leave you spellbound. At its core lies gin, expertly paired with the sweet, floral essence of elderflower syrup. The butterfly pea flowers add a captivating color-changing effect, while the food-grade white luster petal dust imbues the drink with a subtle shimmer.
As if these charms weren’t enough, the cocktail is topped off with a dramatic flaming flair, elevating the experience to new heights. With its unique blend of flavors and visual theatrics, this cocktail is an absolute must-try for anyone seeking a truly unforgettable drink.
Margarita
The Margarita’s enduring popularity stems from its masterful balance of sweet and sour flavors, achieved through a harmonious blend of fresh lime juice, triple sec, and premium tequila. The subtle yet distinct addition of citrus essential oils in the salt rim elevates the drink’s complexity and depth. This timeless cocktail has become an integral part of celebrations like Cinco de Mayo, but its allure extends far beyond special occasions.
Its revitalizing taste makes it a go-to choice for anyone seeking a refreshing escape from the ordinary. Experience firsthand why the Margarita remains a beloved classic, and discover the secrets behind its enduring appeal.
Lemon Basil Strawberry Gin Rickey Cocktail
The Lemon Basil Strawberry Gin Rickey Cocktail offers a revitalizing spin on the timeless gin rickey. Its alluring combination of homemade strawberry basil simple syrup, gin, lemon juice, and soda water makes it an ideal choice for savoring on warm summer evenings. The incorporation of fresh strawberries and basil infuses the drink with a luscious sweetness and herbaceous depth.
As this delightful cocktail typically finds its home in a highball glass, you can elevate its presentation by garnishing it with a sprig of fresh mint or basil, as well as lemon slices or strawberries. If you’re on the hunt for an unusual yet mouthwatering cocktail to try, the Lemon Basil Strawberry Gin Rickey is undoubtedly worth indulging.
Perfect Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz has become an iconic Italian cocktail, charming palates worldwide since its rise to fame in the 2000s. This effervescent, citrusy, and herbaceous concoction masterfully balances subtle bitterness with a hint of sweetness, making it an exemplary aperitif or party drink. At its core is Aperol, a vibrant orange Italian bitter (amaro) boasting a harmonious flavor profile featuring notes of herbs and citrus.
Whether you’re seeking a revitalizing pre-meal sipper or a lively companion for your next disco night, the Perfect Aperol Spritz is an absolute must-try, offering a timeless and mouthwatering addition to any cocktail enthusiast’s collection.
Loco Unicorn
The quest for the ultimate Disco Cocktail that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also mesmerizes with its visual appeal ends here with the Loco Unicorn. This enchanting drink is a masterclass in layering flavors and colors, featuring Captain Morgan’s LocoNut coconut liqueur, grenadine, blue curacao, and coconut water. As you take a sip, you’ll be transported to a tropical paradise with notes of coconut, orange, and berry. The pièce de résistance?
A delicate sprinkle of purple edible glitter on the rim adds an extra layer of whimsy and sophistication to this already show-stopping cocktail. With its light and refreshing composition, courtesy of liqueurs as the sole source of alcohol content, the Loco Unicorn is an ideal companion for sizzling summer days or late-night revelry. If you’re a sucker for coconut and fruity flavors, this drink is sure to cast a spell on your senses.
Jalapeño Margarita
The Jalapeño Margarita injects a bold dose of excitement into the classic margarita formula. By combining fresh jalapeño slices with ginger root and a tangy lime sea salt rim, this invigorating drink delivers a trifecta of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The subtle kick of heat adds an extra layer of complexity, making every sip a thrilling experience.
If you’re seeking to add some spice to your social gatherings or just want to shake things up, the Jalapeño Margarita is an excellent choice. Its simplicity and versatility make it easy to customize to your taste preferences, and you can effortlessly scale the recipe to accommodate larger groups. In short, this fiery concoction is a fantastic addition to any occasion.
Vodka Champagne Cocktail
The Vodka Champagne Cocktail is an ideal choice for those who crave a crisp, slightly sweet beverage. This refreshing drink requires only four ingredients to prepare, making it effortless to create for social gatherings. The sugar cube nestled at the bottom of the glass adds a playful and celebratory flair, rendering it a perfect selection for New Year’s Eve festivities. The bitters incorporated into the cocktail bring an intriguing layer of complexity, elevating its overall appeal.
While traditionally crafted with champagne, this delightful drink can be successfully adapted using any sparkling wine. In summary, the Vodka Champagne Cocktail is an absolute must-try for anyone seeking a revitalizing and simple-to-concoct beverage.
The Empress Q1908
The Empress Q1908, a signature cocktail from the Fairmont Empress in Victoria, Canada, boasts an impressive reputation as one of the finest Empress gin cocktails. This iconic gin sour recipe cleverly combines the signature Empress 1908 Gin, crafted through collaboration with the hotel. Notably, this gin incorporates Canadian water, seven organic botanicals, and the hotel’s distinctive tea blend.
As you take your first sip, the vibrant indigo hue of the cocktail immediately catches the eye, transforming into a delicate lavender shade upon the addition of lemon juice. This mesmerizing color transformation is attributed to the chemical reaction between the butterfly pea flower used in the gin. For aficionados of gin and those seeking an extraordinary, visually captivating drinking experience, the Q1908 Cocktail is an absolute must-try.
Negroni Sbagliato
The Negroni Sbagliato is a modern twist on the classic Negroni, with a rich history dating back to 1920s Italy. By substituting sparkling wine for gin, this refreshing cocktail achieves a lighter and more revitalizing take on the original. The Prosecco infusion brings a touch of sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the Campari’s bitterness and sweet vermouth’s richness, yielding a flawlessly balanced flavor profile.
This sophisticated and effervescent cocktail is an ideal choice for any occasion, particularly summer celebrations and gatherings. Whether you’re a Negroni aficionado or not, the Negroni Sbagliato is sure to delight with its unique blend of flavors.
Italian Blood Orange Vodka Soda
This revitalizing Italian Blood Orange Vodka Soda is an ideal summer refresher. Its simplicity belies the depth of flavor, as vodka, Italian Blood Orange soda, fresh blood oranges, and a sprig of mint harmonize in perfect balance. As the colors and flavors burst forth, this cocktail becomes a showstopper at any disco-themed celebration. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or dancing the night away, the Italian Blood Orange Vodka Soda is sure to delight your friends.
Its unique charm makes it an absolute must-try at your next gathering, guaranteed to bring a touch of sparkle and fun.
Lavender Moscow Mule
Imagine sipping on a refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule, one that combines the spicy kick of ginger tea with the subtle sweetness of homemade lavender simple syrup. The result is a unique and complex flavor profile that’s sure to delight your senses. As you raise your glass for a night of disco dancing or just lounging around with friends, this Lavender Moscow Mule promises to leave a lasting impression.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional Moscow Mules looking to mix things up or seeking out something entirely new and exciting, this must-try cocktail is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
The Pink Squirrel
The Pink Squirrel is an enchanting retro cocktail that exudes nostalgia with its delicate pink hue and rich almond flavor, courtesy of the creme de noyaux liqueur. This indulgent after-dinner treat transports taste buds back in time, evoking memories of sweet treats and childhood whimsy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating Valentine’s Day, or simply seeking a unique drink to impress your guests, the Pink Squirrel is sure to delight with its one-of-a-kind charm.
Mai Tai
Mai Tai, a rum-based cocktail, bursts with tropical flavors from the combination of lime, orange curaçao, and orgeat syrup. Its vibrant personality makes it an ideal choice for a disco-themed party. What’s more, its versatility allows it to be served in multiple ways, catering to diverse tastes. To bring out its full charm, garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of lime. As you take your first sip, let the refreshing essence whisk you away to a sun-kissed paradise.
Cotton Candy Champagne Cocktail
The Cotton Candy Champagne Cocktail is an enchanting concoction that exudes whimsy and sophistication. Its harmonious blend of sweet and effervescent flavors makes it a perfect choice for any celebratory occasion. The cotton candy’s subtle dissolution into the champagne adds a playful and mesmerizing quality to the drink, rendering it an instant showstopper. What’s more, this cocktail is remarkably straightforward to prepare, requiring only two essential ingredients.
While any type of champagne serves as a suitable base, feel free to experiment with rose champagne for an added splash of color. This versatile cocktail is equally well-suited for a baby shower, wedding, outdoor party, or even a New Year’s Eve celebration. If you’re on the hunt for a distinctive and awe-inspiring drink to wow your guests, look no further than the Cotton Candy Champagne Cocktail.
