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.
First Pour
The short companion to our spiced rum. How it is built, how to drink it, the first cocktails to try.
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
Is the Field Manual free?
Yes, completely free. All recipes, equipment guides, and ingredient information are available without signing up or paying anything. We built it to help people make better drinks - selling rum is our business, not selling content.
Do I need to buy Jerry Can rum to use the recipes?
No. While we'd love you to try our rum, every recipe works with any quality spirit in that category. We include notes on what to look for in substitutes when relevant. The Field Manual is useful whether you buy from us or not.
What equipment do I need to start making cocktails?
At minimum: a jigger (or measuring cup), something to stir with, and glasses. A shaker helps but isn't essential for many drinks. Our equipment section has a starter kit guide that covers what to buy first and what can wait.
How are cocktail difficulty ratings determined?
Based on technique required and ingredient accessibility. Novice means minimal technique and common ingredients - anyone can make these. Wayfinder involves shaking, straining, or a specialty ingredient or two. Trailblazer includes advanced techniques or multiple specialty ingredients.
Can I suggest a cocktail or ingredient to add?
Yes - we're always expanding the Field Manual. Get in touch with suggestions. We prioritise recipes that work well at home with accessible ingredients.