IBA Cocktails Recipes and Inspirations

What is the Trinidad Sour? The Trinidad Sour is one of the boldest and most unconventional cocktails to grace the IBA (International Bartenders Association) list. What sets it apart? Instead of using bitters as a mere accent, this drink makes Angostura bitters its star ingredient, using a full 1.5 ounces (45 ml)—a staggering amount compared to the typical dashes seen in classic cocktails.

The Boulevardier: A Whiskey-Forward Take on the Negroni The Boulevardier is often described as the whiskey lover’s Negroni, swapping out gin for bourbon (or sometimes rye) while keeping the signature mix of Campari and sweet vermouth. This simple substitution transforms the drink, giving it a richer, warmer profile while maintaining its bittersweet complexity. This post contains affiliate links, …

A Classic Worth Trying Between the Sheets is one of those classic cocktails I’ve heard about for years but never actually tried—until now. Part of the IBA list, this drink is often overshadowed by its close relative, the Sidecar, but it deserves its own spotlight. The blend of cognac, white rum, triple sec, and lemon juice creates a balanced, sophisticated flavor that’s both …

Continuing my quest to cover every IBA Official Cocktail, today we come to a giant. The dry martini is the embodiment of classic sophistication. There’s something about this cocktail that speaks to a level of timeless elegance. Its simplicity—gin (or vodka), dry vermouth, and a twist of lemon or an olive—makes it both a staple and a symbol of refinement. Whether you’re celebrating a special …

The IBA: A Brief History of the Cocktail Canon The International Bartenders Association (IBA) was established in 1951 to unite bartenders worldwide, fostering a shared knowledge of craft and standards. Among its initiatives is the IBA Official Cocktails List, a collection of recipes considered quintessential in the bartending world. Updated periodically, the list represents timeless classics, …