The classic white wine spritzer was invented in Austria as sparkling water came into fashion. Adding a squirt, or gespritzt, of cold bubbles to a glass of wine made for a stylish summer drink. As its popularity spread through the continent and across the pond, the German gespritzt led way to ‘spritzer’. This modern spritzer invokes summertime relaxation and terrace living with Grey Goose and honey, a dash of lemon for balance, and an essential spritz of soda.

Before written on paper, the Whiskey Sour was created by Vice Admiral Edward Vernon of England to help calm the stomachs of sailors suffering from scurvy and seasickness. The very early version with sugar, lemon juice and whiskey was the inspiration behind this citrusy cocktail. Woodford Reserve bourbon is shaken up with the brightness of acidified orange juice and Angostura bitters, and garnished with an orange wheel.

A book published in 1862 by Jerry Thomas, 19th Century entrepreneur, owner of several New York City bars and known as the ‘father of American mixology’, contained the first gin-based Old Fashioned recipe. The Old Fashioned known today was created in Louisville, Kentucky, where Old Fashioned Fortnight is celebrated annually in honour of the beloved cocktail. This brown-spirited cocktail might look old-fashioned, but its taste is a revelation and a cultural mash-up – mixing Casamigos Reposado and Glenlivet 12 Year Old. A dash of simple syrup and Angostura bitters mixed to finish.

The French 75, designed by Harry MacElhone of Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, was named after the French 75mm field gun used in WWI. With that warning in mind, this cocktail begins with a mix of Bombay Sapphire gin and Hennessy VS, lightened up with soothing chamomile and a float of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label. Don’t let the innocent lemon twist deceive you, this drink has power.

The Hotel Nacional de Cuba was one of the world’s most glamourous hotels in the early 20th century and its namesake cocktail is the inspiration for this drink. Mount Gay Black Barrel rum is mixed with fresh pineapple and lime juices, while the traditional apricot liqueur is replaced with elderflower St-Germain. A generous topping of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label calls to mind the sparkling Cuban sunshine

Based on the Corpse Reviver, a drink whose popularity soared with its appearance in The Savoy Cocktail Book in 1930, this version is equally adept at livening up the mood. Blackberries and lemon juice provide a burst of sweet and sour, while a masterful mix of Botanist gin, Casamigos Blanco, Cointreau and Lillet Blanc is poured into an absinthe rinse. If this doesn’t kick-start one’s heart, little else will.

While the Mai Tai is a classic rum cocktail first served at Trader Vic’s in California, the Chai Tai mixes things up with Mount Gay Black Barrel rum and Botanist gin. Pineapple and lime juices provide tropical sweetness, while a dose of chai syrup adds a warm and spicy complexity. Surprising upon first sip, the original recipe is left wondering where chai has been all its life.

In his first novel, author Ian Fleming, originating from the United Kingdom, writes of his protagonist, James Bond, suavely instructing a bartender to mix him a cocktail of gin, vodka and Kina Lillet. He names it The Vesper, after his love, the beautiful Vesper Lynd. This refreshed version blends Bombay Sapphire gin with Grey Goose – and in a maverick Bond-inspired move – an equal measure of new world Chardonnay. Shaken, not stirred, and shockingly delightful.

Watching the birds flit about while sitting at the Aviary Bar, Kuala Lumpur was a moment in time, never to be repeated. The Jungle Bird was the bar’s signature cocktail and the inspiration behind this drink. Woodford Reserve bourbon happily pairs with Campari and orange and lemon juices for a cocktail that recalls the tiki kitsch of the 1970s, with a fresh and modern vibe.

Though the ‘Cosmo’ started making the rounds in the 80s when Madonna was photographed with one in hand at New York City’s the Rainbow Room, its popularity peaked in the 90s with the advent of the television show Sex and the City. Originally a mix of vodka, cranberry and Cointreau, this gin-based version is all grown up. It has budded from a vivid pink hue to a mature white. Botanist gin and St-Germain mix with fresh lemon and apple juices, while an artistic orange twist swoops over the glass with late 20th century glam.