Any self-respecting man should know how to rustle up a decent cocktail, right? But what if you don’t? Or do, but want to take your slinging prowess to the next level?
You log onto Instagram and get learning, that’s what. From easy-to-follow recipes to drool-worthy drinks porn, unusual ingredients to bizarre presentation ideas, the ‘gram is a shining beacon of hope for those useless in all things bar-related.
So get tapping with our run-down of the best accounts to follow. And don’t go making them all at once. Or do, but maybe invite your mates round first.
@mixologyart
Best For: Wacky Serving Suggestions
Drinks served in light bulbs? Check. Topped with candy floss? Of course. This creative account shows Turner prize-worthy cocktails served in unique ways.
Our favorite is the Ice Sphere Artichoke Negroni, which literally comes as a block of ice (although the Potato Head is a close second). Not the most practical for drinking, but who cares about that when you’re sipping what’s basically a work of art? https://www.instagram.com/p/BGgciMGKzNr/?taken-by=mixologyart
@punch_drink
Best For: Newbs
If you’re looking for some quick ideas of what to throw into a glass, hotfoot it to Punch magazine’s Instafeed, where you’ll find the ingredients of each cocktail listed in the caption – minimal effort, maximum result.
To take the guesswork out, click through to Punch’s main site to find detailed recipes and indulge in some wistful browsing. https://www.instagram.com/p/BIQAVsRB-2q/?taken-by=punch_drink
@stirandstrain
Best For: Inspiration
Stir and Strain blogger Elena knows a thing or two about how to mix a good cocktail – she was a finalist in Saveur’s Best Cocktail Blog 2014 and 2015 – and while her blog’s worth a visit, her Instafeed’s just as addictive, packed full of mouthwatering images to get your own creative juices flowing (excuse the pun).
You’ll also find corresponding recipes on her website, which means you can actually learn a thing or two rather than just stare at pretty pictures and salivate. Sold. https://www.instagram.com/p/BKE0CfIDQ5y/?taken-by=stirandstrain
@apartment_bartender
Best For: Quick Recipes
This stylish account from home bartender and blogger Elliott is a smorgasbord of professionally styled cocktails complete with full recipes in the captions.
It’s the booze pops that really got us though – made with fresh blueberries, lemon basil syrup, lemon juice and, of course, a generous slug of gin.
Follow him and you’ll be a master drink-slinger in minutes, all without ever having to minimise the ‘gram while you’re mixing. https://www.instagram.com/p/BKRVTjIjRcQ/
@bostonmixdrink
Best For: Inventive Mixes
Cocktail recipes straight from the menu (from Boston’s Tavern Road) make up Tenzin Samdo’s eye-popping account, and with almost 15k followers he’s clearly doing something right.
He might be based in Boston (a city arguably better known for its beer and Irish pubs), but Samdo’s feed has universal appeal; if the inspiring quotes don’t entice you, the kaleidoscopic shots might. Check out ‘The Thing’ – a drink in a shark’s head. Casual. https://www.instagram.com/p/BFohzguAMVp/?taken-by=bostonmixdrink
@tuxedono2
Best For: Straightforward Cocktails
Minimalist shots on a dark background define Tuxedo Number Two’s Instagram, showing us that cocktails don’t have to be totally out-there to look cool.
Scotch, vermouth, bitters, gin, tequila – you name it, there’s a recipe for it, thanks to ‘cocktail companions’ Meredith and Chrissy. Over on their website you’ll find in-depth information about the history of each drink, including ‘Cock N’ Bull’. Imbibing has never been this educational. https://www.instagram.com/p/BIyZWZqgjD5/?taken-by=tuxedono2
