Because almost everyone loves the taste of fresh lime and coconut, this is an excellent beverage to serve at an end of winter theme party. Something about tropical cocktails always lightens winter-weary spirits, and this one’s island-breeze taste will make anyone think that they are sipping it while enjoying the ambiance of a tropical paradise.

The rum and cola, a fairly simple drink, actually has quite the complex history and the television special dove deep into the origins. It turns out the real name of the drink was the Cuba Libre which means “Free Cuba.” Not an overly complex drink it is essentially one part cola beverage (typically Coca Cola) and one part rum (typically Cuban rum). The Cola represents the American side of things while the rum represents Cuba and the blending of the two is meant as a symbolic blend of cultures.

Regardless of the history, this drink is simple and easy to make. Often served in a highball glass with a standard garnish of a lime wedge, the drink features hard liquor that goes down smooth with the help of a little cola. A great starter drink if you are new to the party or if you want to unwind a little.

Mix a bottle of Spanish red wine with the same amount of Sprite or similar lemon drink, then add a glass of either whisky or brandy, then a peach, an apple and an orange, add about 5 to 10 ounces of sugar with a sprinkle of cinnamon. This recipe comes close to a traditional Spanish Sangria.

A super-fruity recipe uses a bottle of white wine, two shots of berry-flavored brandy, two cups ginger ale, a half-cup each of sugar and lemonade, a cup of sliced strawberries, one each lemon, lime, peach and orange cut into wedges.
This blend is left to chill overnight, except ginger ale, which is added with ice before serving.

Contrary to popular belief, rum was first invented in Asia likely in India or China. It was first recorded in the 14th century by none other than Marco Polo while he was in Iran. It came into the Caribbean in the 17th century, where it became a favorite of natives and pirates alike. The original version was extremely strong and didn’t taste particularly good, but over the centuries it has been refined into the alcohol in the Malibu Breeze.

The drink has a smooth texture, with a coconut flavor that is not overwhelming or too sweet. The cranberry and pineapple flavors weave together to become a true treat for your palate. Here is the recipe for your Malibu Breeze.

1 1/2 ounces of Malibu Coconut Rum
2 ounces of Cranberry Juice
2 ounces of Pineapple Juice

Give the ingredients a quick blend, and serve over ice.

The origin of the Bloody Mary is a bit clouded. Fernand Petiot claimed himself the creator in 1921 at a bar in New York City. The actor George Jessel also stakes his rights to the title of being the drinks creator. George reported this to a gossip column in 1939. The name itself can be related to figures in history. Queen Mary I of England for one and also another famous movie actress named Mary Pickford. Regardless of the mix of ingredients, or origin of its name, the Bloody Mary is a favorite of alcoholic beverage drinkers.

Try this delicious, nutty chocolate-hazelnut concoction: combine hot coffee with chocolate liqueur and hazelnut liqueur. Served in a wine glass, this is a sophisticated drink to help you unwind.

The classic Irish Coffee is comforting and rich. Mix a cup of hot coffee with good Irish whiskey and a bit of sugar, for a sweet and tangy drink. You can top this one with whipped cream for an even richer treat.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more exotic, try the French Connection cocktail, made with hot coffee, cognac and amaretto, topped with whipped cream and slivered almonds.

A cold coffee cocktail is just the thing for hot weather. Enjoy a caramel latte for grown-ups, made with espresso, caramel vodka, coffee liqueur and half-and-half. Serve in a tall glass with ice for cooling refreshment.

Whether piping hot or icy cold, coffee cocktails will surprise you with their versatility and deliciousness.

Now, if you’d like to learn how to make the perfect margarita, here are some helpful tips to take into consideration:

Alcohol: In order for your margarita to taste good, you want to make sure you don’t put in too much alcohol. Stick to a shot glass amount.

Frozen: You will also want to make sure your mixed flavoring was frozen to begin with. Margaritas are their best when they’re really cold and they are a slushy form. Also, make sure there are no chunks in your margarita so it’s nice and smooth to go down.

Add fruit: Add some fresh fruit in order to make your margarita even more flavorful.

Salt: Lastly, in order to follow the tips for a class margarita make sure you salt the top of the glass to give it that perfect sweet and salty taste.

As you can see, there are some great ways to make the perfect margarita. From adding the perfect amount of alcohol to adding some fresh fruit, you can make the perfect drink in no time.