The Cocktail Guide
From First Pour to Proper Drink
Everything you need to make proper cocktails at home. Recipes that actually work, equipment recommendations that won't bankrupt you, and ingredient guides written in plain English. We built this because most cocktail resources are either gatekeeping nonsense or trying to sell you something. This one's free - we just want you to make great drinks.
Great Drinks, Without the Gatekeeping
You don't need a cocktail certification or a shelf full of obscure spirits to make exceptional drinks at home. The Field Manual cuts through the jargon and gatekeeping that can make mixology feel out of reach.
Every recipe is written in plain English with clear measurements. We focus on what genuinely matters and filter out the noise. Whether you're mixing your first Cuba Libre or experimenting with house-made syrups, this guide meets you exactly where you are.
Good technique, quality ingredients, and a willingness to experiment. That's all it takes.
Start Anywhere
Pick a cocktail that sounds good and work backwards. Need a specific ingredient? We'll tell you what it is. Missing a tool? We'll suggest alternatives. The Field Manual is built to help wherever you're starting from.
Browse CocktailsCocktail Difficulty Levels
Every recipe is rated so you know what you're getting into
| Level | Technique | Ingredients | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Novice | Pour, stir, build in glass | Common spirits, basic mixers | Rum & Coke, Storm and Spice, Mojito |
| Wayfinder | Shaking, straining, muddling | 1-2 specialty ingredients | Daiquiri, Mai Tai, Piña Colada |
| Trailblazer | Layering, flaming, infusions | Multiple specialty items | Zombie, Painkiller, Hurricane |
Technique: Pour, stir, build in glass
Ingredients: Common spirits, basic mixers
Examples: Rum & Coke, Storm and Spice, Mojito
Technique: Shaking, straining, muddling
Ingredients: 1-2 specialty ingredients
Examples: Daiquiri, Mai Tai, Piña Colada
Technique: Layering, flaming, infusions
Ingredients: Multiple specialty items
Examples: Zombie, Painkiller, Hurricane
Start with Novice recipes and work your way up as you get comfortable with the basics.
Questions About the Field Manual
What people usually want to know