Spirits 101
Host Guide
Movie-inspired cocktails for a blockbuster night in
Whether with friends or alone, these movie-inspired cocktails will add some Hollywood glamour to your night in.
2026 Awards season-inspired cocktails
Whether it’s a recipe taken straight from the big screen, or a cocktail inspired by your favorite films, giving your cocktails a red carpet makeover is one way to make a simple night at home feel like an award-winning masterpiece.
Can’t stand people talking through the film? Any good movie star knows the power of a solo screening with a cocktail for one. So, whether you’re throwing a viewing party or enjoying a glamorous night alone, these movie cocktails are ready for their close-up…
Marty-ni Supreme
A hot contender across the major awards this year, pay homage to this film’s leading man with a drink that, like the lead actor, is a merging of French and American flavors. For this, we're reimagining a French Martini with a splash of good, old American bourbon whiskey.
Sin & Tonic
Loved a particular Southern vampire horror film this year? You're not alone. If you're planning a themed menu around nominated films, why not consider this smoky, fiery twist on the Gin & Tonic? It's classy, with grit. It's traditional – with a little something extra (secret).
From the big screen to big flavor, classic movie cocktails
If you’re looking to add a touch of celluloid (and cocktail) history to your starry soirée, these tipples have been the toast of Tinseltown for decades.
James Bond’s Vesper Martini
Arguably the most famous celluloid cocktail, this fictional secret agent’s classic ‘Shaken, Not Stirred’ Vesper Martini first appeared in the novel and became the iconic sip of the titular character, with the drink’s name based on his fictional love interest.
Today, the Vesper remains one of the most sophisticated ways to enjoy a martini, but over the years, it’s had something of a transformation. The original cocktail has had to change since its debut as it originally included a French aromatic wine which is no longer produced. Today, a dry vermouth can take its place.
French 75 from 1942 hit film Casablanca
Of all the movie cocktails in all the towns in all the world, the French 75 is one of the most glamorous.
The bona fide classic – often considered one of the best films ever made – mostly takes place inside stylish bar with plenty of cocktails flowing to take inspiration from.
However, leading up to one particularly poignant scene, the French 75 makes its appearance, forever sealing its place among renowned cinematic sips. The sparkling wine cocktail features gin, lemon juice, sugar and Champagne.
Get the tissues out, prepare to swoon and sob, and pour yourself a French 75 – it could be the start of a beautiful friendship between you and this sweet, tart cocktail.
The Cosmopolitan, a sexy classic
Popularized in the late 1990s TV show and brought back to the forefront of pop culture with the hugely successful movie franchise and TV reboot, Cosmopolitan cocktails are main character and fashion-forward columnist’s go-to drink for decades
The Singapore Sling
Made its debut in a famous 1990s film, sipped on the patio of a renowned Beverly Hills hotel with ‘mezcal on the side’.
The drink which packs a punch – a beguiling mix of gin, cherry brandy and herbal liqueur – so we’d recommend skipping the chaser of Mezcal.
The Mississippi Punch from Breakfast at Tiffany’s
With her swept up hair and timeless Little Black Dress the iconic leading lady from this classic film remains one of the most iconic and stylish film characters of all time – and her drink of choice was just as potent.
Ingredients:
1.75 oz. Cognac
0.75 oz. Bourbon (we adore Bulleit!)
0.75 oz. Zacapa No. 23 Rum
0.4 oz. Lemon Juice
0.4 oz. Simple Syrup
Orange Slice and Cherry Garnish
Directions:
Combine cognac, bourbon, lemon juice and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with crushed ice.
Shake and pour into a Collins glass.
Top the glass with more crushed ice.
Add rum.
Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.
Create the vibe
And the award for best host goes to...
Awards season might be known for its glitz and glamour, but there’s no chance of outshining you with these excellent tips for throwing a party worthy of any a-list celebrity
Hand out voter cards
A bit of online searching will save you time here, but you can hand out voter cards so your guests can predict their winners. It adds a layer of interactivity and competition, and there could be a nice prize given to the person with the most wins.
Decorate appropriately
Include fun surprises and details throughout the party to get people excited for the evening to come! Create your own Walk of Fame with stickers or decals (maybe include your guests’ names for fun). Use a red carpet for that “red carpet moment” or decorate with cutouts of iconic Hollywood stars. Of course, be sure to have some popcorn to snack on during the show.
Rename classic cocktails
You don’t need to serve up an array of new flavors and creations – just get inventive! Do what any good scriptwriter or director does and find ways to bring magic to your bar.
For example, batch a cocktail and rename it something inspired by a nominated film. This way, you’ve got a number of drinks already covered without having to rush back and forth.
