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To wow your friends and family, you don’t need a master’s degree in mixology. All you really need to perfect some of the most delicious, crowd-pleasing cocktails are two ingredients. One spirit and one mixer. (And if you add a garnish or two, the cocktail will only get better.)
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These easy, classic cocktails will please everyone who bellies up to your home bar.
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two ingredient cocktails
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Bourbon and Lemonade
There’s only one way to make lemonade better and that’s by adding bourbon to it. A simplified version of the Lynchburg lemonade (featuring bourbon instead of Tennessee whiskey), this drink is summer is a booze-filled glass.
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Cuba Libre
If you buy cola, you can mix it with just about any dark spirit to create a tasty cocktail. The rum version is the Cuba libre. Simply made from cola and dark rum, this cocktail is heightened with a lime wedge. But, it’s still delicious without it.
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Vodka Tonic
If you’re looking for a simple, refreshing cocktail, look no further than the vodka soda. Just like the gin and tonic, this drink lists its ingredients in the name. Also, like the G&T, this cocktail is only made better with the addition of a lime or lemon wedge.
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The Godfather
This drink might be most suited for winter drinking. It’s a bit rough for the warmer months. But, next winter, when you’re shivering under a blanket, enjoy this cocktail made with Scotch and amaretto. Simple, perfect, and warming.
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Martini
It’s a surprise to some how easy it is to make a martini. The favorite drink of James Bond is made with vodka and dry vermouth. If you want to add to it, simply throw an olive in. Or don’t. Whatever suits you.
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Seven and Seven
Everyone’s favorite drink in college (if you attended before the days of vodka and Red Bull) is made with Seagram’s 7 Crown Whiskey (or your favorite whiskey) and 7-Up. It’s effervescent and full of whiskey goodness.
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Tequila and Grapefruit
The paloma is possibly the second most famous tequila-based cocktail after the margarita. This simplified version consists of tequila and grapefruit juice or tequila and grapefruit soda. Both are equally refreshing on a hot, summer day.
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Gin and Tonic
The gin and tonic is possibly the most refreshing drink for the summer months. To make a basic version you literally only need gin and tonic. Citrus kicks it up a notch, but nobody will be mad to drink one with only two ingredients.
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