1970s-Inspired Cocktails

Travel back in time to the groovy 1970s, an era known for its funky fashion, disco beats, and iconic cocktails. Embrace the spirit of this retro decade by mixing up some delicious 1970s-inspired cocktails that will transport you to a bygone era.

Harvey Wallbanger:

The Harvey Wallbanger was a popular cocktail in the 1970s, often associated with the disco scene. Its vibrant orange hue and distinct flavor make it a classic choice. To make this retro cocktail, you'll need:
- 1 1/2 oz Vodka
- 3 oz Orange Juice
- 1/2 oz Galliano Liqueur
Fill a highball glass with ice, pour in the vodka and orange juice, and stir. Float the Galliano liqueur on top, garnish with an orange slice, and serve with a swizzle stick.

Grasshopper:

The Grasshopper is a creamy and minty cocktail that gained popularity in the 1970s. Its sweet and refreshing taste makes it a perfect choice for those with a sweet tooth. Here's what you'll need:
- 3/4 oz Green Crème de Menthe
- 3/4 oz White Crème de Cacao
- 3/4 oz Heavy Cream
Shake all the ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker, strain into a chilled cocktail glass, and garnish with a mint leaf or grated chocolate.

Piña Colada:

While the Piña Colada originated in the 1950s, it experienced a surge in popularity during the 1970s, becoming a symbol of tropical escapism. This creamy and tropical delight can transport you to sunny beaches. Here's the classic recipe:
- 2 oz White Rum
- 2 oz Pineapple Juice
- 1 1/2 oz Coconut Cream
- Pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry for garnish
Blend all the ingredients with crushed ice until smooth, pour into a Hurricane glass, and garnish with a pineapple wedge and a maraschino cherry.

Tequila Sunrise:

The Tequila Sunrise became an iconic cocktail of the 1970s, known for its vibrant gradient colors resembling a sunrise. It's a simple yet visually stunning drink. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 oz Tequila
- 4 oz Orange Juice
- 1/2 oz Grenadine
Fill a highball glass with ice, add tequila and orange juice, and stir gently. Slowly pour the grenadine over the back of a spoon to create the sunrise effect. Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.

White Russian:

The White Russian, made famous by "The Big Lebowski," gained popularity in the 1970s. This creamy cocktail is a delicious blend of vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream. Here's how to make it:
- 2 oz Vodka
- 1 oz Coffee Liqueur (e.g., Kahlua)
- 1 oz Heavy Cream or Milk
Pour vodka and coffee liqueur into an Old Fashioned glass filled with ice. Stir gently, then float the cream on top. You can also mix all the ingredients with ice in a shaker and strain into the glass for a more blended version.

So, whether you're throwing  a 1970s-themed party or hosting a retro-inspired gathering at the Iroquois Club in Bloomfield Hills, these cocktails will transport you to the funky and fabulous world of the 1970s. Cheers to the disco decade!