7 Cocktails from Movies & TV That Are Iconic for a Reason

One of the most amazing things about film and TV is its capacity to start and revive trends. For instance, a whole new generation started listening to Kate Bush and Metallica thanks to the series Stranger Things. Similarly, cocktails from pop-culture movies tend to get a little IRL time in the limelight. To get you inspired to pour a few silver-screen sippers, here are seven cocktails from movies and TV that are iconic for a reason. 

1. Vesper Martini (Casino Royale)

Naturally, we have to jump straight out of the blocks with a James Bond classic. Technically, we should probably reference the straight-up Vodka Martini that was the standard for years… But we love the Vesper Martini because it’s got a little extra swagger in the mix. All you need to make this classy clinker is some Bulldog Gin, vodka, a dash of dry vermouth, and a constitution that can handle a strong drink. 

Learn more: 15 Vermouth Cocktails for Sophisticated Sipping

2. Margarita (Practical Magic)

Practical Magic is an enduring 90s movie that is just too fantastic to pass up. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman star in this wonderfully written tale of everyday magic and sisterhood shenanigans—and it was made all the more delightful by the famous Midnight Margarita ritual. We love a well-made Lime Margarita and if you want to discover its magic, all you’ll need is good tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and agave syrup. 

3. Cosmopolitan (Sex and the City)

Sex and the City is a famous TV series that will always have a hold on its many, many fans the world over. Frothy, gossipy, and full of heart, its four main characters were quite fond of cocktails and sampled countless ones throughout the show’s six seasons. However, their favorite one was the iconic Cosmopolitan, and for good reason—it’s a gorgeous drink. Featuring citrus-infused vodka, orange liqueur, lime, cranberry juice, and an orange peel garnish, this iconic pink cocktail is simple to shake up and makes for a wonderful start to a night on the town with your best friends. 

Love them zesty? 12 Cocktails with Orange Liqueur That Zest the Best

4. White Russian (Big Lebowski)

The Big Lebowski is a movie starring Jeff Bridges as Jeff “The Dude” Lebowski. This 1998 cult classic centers around the antics of an easy-going burnout who gets caught up in a comedy of errors. Throughout the film, The Dude is almost always holding, drinking, finishing, or making a White Russian. It also happens to be super simple to make at home. We suggest using a premium vodka like SKYY Vodka, a high-shelf coffee liqueur and proper heavy cream. 

5. Old Fashioned (Mad Men)

Don Draper from the hit TV series Mad Men may have been a complex character, but at least the man had stellar taste in drinks. An Old Fashioned drink recipe calls for either rye whiskey or bourbon, which is combined with simple syrup and a few dashes of aromatic bitters. For the perfect serve, garnish the drink with either an orange twist, maraschino cherries, or both. 

Go pro: Best Whiskey for an Old Fashioned Cocktail

6. Mint Julep (The Great Gatsby)

One of the Mint Julep’s major claims to fame is its starring role in The Great Gatsby in the hands of the novel’s hapless heroine Daisy, who named it her summertime cocktail of choice. In the real world, it’s perhaps best known as the official drink of the Kentucky Derby, where the cooling cocktail is sipped along the racetrack as thoroughbreds compete for the winning title.  

More winning drinks: 7 Kentucky Derby Drinks Perfect for Race-Day Parties

7. Singapore Sling (Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas)

Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas is an epic 90s movie based on a semi-autobiographical novel by Hunter S. Thompson. With stars like Johnny Depp, Benicio Del Toro, and Cameron Diaz, it made a big splash. In the movie, Raoul Duke (Depp) and Dr. Gonzo (Del Toro) enjoy their Singapore Slings with a side of mezcal. The Singapore Sling has been a popular cocktail for decades, and this silver-screen moment gave it a shove back into the limelight.

There you have it – seven amazing cocktails from movies and TV to inspire your starry-eyed creations at home. Happy clinking! If you loved these suggestions, remember to sign up for our newsletter so we can keep you entertained with all the cocktail blockbusters of the season to come!