"classic cocktail" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it when referring to an old-fashioned drink. For example, "She ordered a classic cocktail from the bar."
"You could say it's the first classic cocktail invented outside of the U.S.," Wondrich said.
Mr. Kwiatkowski is set to open the Sugar House, a classic cocktail bar, in the building next to Slows.
All those syrupy liqueurs, anathema to the classic cocktail crowd, come into their own when used judiciously in shakes.
With a snap in the air, the classic cocktail revival turns to traditional warmers like hot toddies.
Also in the mix is Billy Sunday's sirop de capillaire — "that's a wonderful throwback, I think, to classic cocktail culture.
Instead, just ask: "Would you like some wine?" Second, never stick slavishly to the recipe for a classic cocktail.
"The Collins is a classic cocktail, make no mistake about it," he wrote in an e-mail message.
Those who can't get enough of the denlike setting can return at night; since 2010, the shop has doubled as a classic cocktail bar.
— Jeff Gordinier Gotham: As the weather turns cool, the rye manhattan replaces the gin martini as the New Yorker's classic cocktail of choice.
The orange bitters added warmth to the sharp tang of the kvass, while the kvass Bloody Mary was an earthier but also sweeter take on the classic cocktail.
Jezebel's Singapore sling keeps the gin and Cherry Heering that are common parts of this classic cocktail, but leaves their frequent companion, Benedictine, on the shelf.
