The Return of Classic Gin Cocktails

The Return of Classic Gin Cocktails

Classic gin cocktails are rising from history’s pages and re-entering the Phnom Penh drinking scene with remarkable energy. At The Mekong Gin Society, we’ve seen members fall in love with the timeless elegance of vintage recipes — martinis, gimlets, French 75s, and Negronis — all rediscovered through a proudly Cambodian lens. These drinks feel refined, confident, and deeply satisfying, especially when enhanced with local botanicals and modern twists inspired by Southeast Asia’s flavours.

Across Phnom Penh, there’s a growing appetite for heritage spirits and simple, well-balanced cocktails. People want quality, not complexity — and classic gin drinks deliver exactly that. With clean lines, sharp botanicals, and just a handful of ingredients, they let the gin itself shine while giving drinkers the feeling of stepping into a more sophisticated era. Whether you’re relaxing at home or hosting friends, these cocktails offer an experience that is both nostalgic and unmistakably modern.

Let’s explore the classics making their comeback — and how you can give each one a Mekong twist tonight.

1. The Timeless Martini

Elegant, cold, and brutally simple — the Martini has returned as the king of minimalism. At our Phnom Penh tastings, members rediscover how vermouth, dilution, and temperature shape the entire drink.
Mekong Twist: Swap lemon peel for a strip of local pomelo zest or add a single drop of pandan extract for an aromatic Southeast Asian whisper.

2. The Gimlet: Sweet, Sharp & Effortless

The Gimlet’s charm is its clarity — gin, lime, and a touch of sweetness. It’s refreshing, balanced, and incredibly easy to make.
Mekong Twist: Use calamansi instead of lime, or add a hint of Kampot pepper syrup for a sharp, exotic edge.

3. The Negroni: Bold and Bitter with Style

The Negroni has become a favourite among members who enjoy depth and complexity. It’s strong, stylish, and surprisingly adaptable.
Mekong Twist: Replace Campari with a local bitter crafted from citrus, herbs, and botanicals for a softer, more tropical profile.

4. The French 75: Light, Sparkling Luxury

Few cocktails feel as celebratory as the French 75 — gin, citrus, sugar, and bubbly. It’s elegant, refreshing, and ideal for dinners or small gatherings.
Mekong Twist: Add a splash of Cambodian honey syrup or garnish with a sliver of young ginger for aromatic sophistication.

5. The Tom Collins: Highball Perfection

The Tom Collins is essentially a taller, livelier cousin of the Gimlet and a favourite in Phnom Penh’s warm evenings.
Mekong Twist Use local lemongrass syrup and garnish with cucumber ribbons for a bright Southeast Asian finish.

6. The Aviation: A Forgotten Beauty Returns

This violet-tinted classic is making a quiet but confident comeback among members who enjoy floral, aromatic cocktails.
Mekong Twist: Replace crème de violette with butterfly pea extract for natural colour and a Cambodian botanical identity.

Why Classic Gin Cocktails Are Returning

People are craving authenticity — drinks with history, structure, and purpose. Classic cocktails offer this without the noise and theatrics of modern mixology. They focus on balance, botanicals, and craftsmanship, qualities that resonate deeply with the growing gin culture in Cambodia.

And with access to rare bottles, premium mixers, Southeast Asian botanicals, and curated collections from The Mekong Gin Society, home bartenders in Phnom Penh can now enjoy cocktails that would cost significantly more in a bar.

Rediscover the Classics with a Mekong Perspective

Every month, our tastings explore these vintage recipes alongside regional botanicals, premium ice, and carefully chosen tonics. Members don’t just drink — they learn, experiment, and refine their palate through hands-on experiences.

If you're ready to explore the world of classic gin cocktails with local inspiration, we’re here to help you elevate every pour.

Pour something timeless tonight, Campbell — and give it your own Mekong twist. Cheers.