5 Modern Cocktails You Need to Try

Cocktails have come a long way from the days of the classic Old Fashioned or Martini. While those timeless drinks still have their place, the modern cocktail scene is all about creativity, fresh ingredients, and innovative techniques. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail lover or just dipping your toes into mixology, here are five modern cocktails that are making waves in bars and home setups around the world.

Espresso Martini 2.0

Originally invented in the 1980s, the Espresso Martini has seen a major resurgence—with a twist. The modern version often includes cold brew concentrate instead of espresso, giving it a smoother, richer flavor. Some bartenders also infuse the vodka with vanilla beans or swap in coffee liqueurs like Mr Black for extra depth. This cocktail is perfect for coffee lovers looking for a smooth, elegant pick-me-up.

• 2 oz. vodka

• 1 oz. fresh espresso

• 1/2 oz. coffee liqueur

• 1/4 oz. simple syrup

• Garnish: three coffee beans

Shake ingredients with ice, strain into coupe and garnish

Smoky Paloma

The Paloma is traditionally a refreshing Mexican cocktail made with tequila and grapefruit soda. The modern upgrade includes mezcal, a smoky agave-based spirit, which adds depth and complexity to the drink. This version brings a smoky, citrusy twist that's perfect for late summer evenings.

• 2 oz. Mezcal

• 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice

• 1/4 oz. lime juice

• 1/4 oz agave syrup

• Soda water

• Salt rim

Rim half of collins glass with salt. Shake all ingredients over ice with the exception of the soda, strain into ice filled glass and top with soda.

Gin Basil Smash

Fresh, herbal, and easy to love, the Gin Basil Smash is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a bold flavor. It originated in Germany in the early 2000s and quickly gained global recognition. Muddled basil gives this drink a vibrant green color and a refreshing, garden-fresh taste. It's ideal for those who want something light, aromatic, and a little different.

• 2 oz, gin

• 1 oz. lemon juice

• 3/4 oz. simple syrup

• basil leaves

• Garnish: basil leaves

Gently muddle basil leaves in shaker tin, fill with ice and all ingredients, shake, strain into ice filled rocks glass and garnish.

Paper Plane

Invented by bartender Sam Ross in 2007, the Paper Plane is a modern classic that's gained cult status. It's a perfectly balanced, equal-parts cocktail that's both approachable and complex. The bittersweet combo of Aperol and Amaro Nonino, paired with citrus and bourbon, creates a cocktail that’s smooth yet bold—perfect for impressing guests or sipping solo.

• 3/4 oz. bourbon

• 3/4 oz. Aperol

• 3/4 oz. amaro Nonino

• 3/4 oz. fresh lemon juice

Shake all ingredients over ice, strain into chilled coupe.

Mezcal Negroni

The Negroni has been reimagined in countless ways, but the Mezcal Negroni might just be the most exciting. Replacing gin with smoky mezcal transforms this bitter Italian classic into something edgy and unforgettable. It’s a fantastic option for those who love bold flavors and aren't afraid of a little bitterness.

• 1 oz. ,mezcal

• 1 oz. sweet vermouth

• 1 oz. Campari

• Orange twist

Stir ingredients over ice, strain into ice filled rocks glass, garnish.

Final Sip

Modern cocktails are all about reinvention—taking classics and giving them new life with unexpected ingredients or techniques. Whether it's a smoky twist, a fresh herb infusion, or a shift in spirit base, these five cocktails represent the creativity and flavor-forward thinking of today’s best bartenders.

Ready to shake (or stir) things up? Try one of these and bring a bit of the modern bar scene into your glass.