With the rapid growth of entrepreneurship, it may feel scary going out there and competing for an investor’s attention and money.
While it can be intimidating, there are certain tricks of the trade that can help you out. Remember, you might not always doing a pitch in a board room. You may find yourself with an investor at a bar or cafe.
What drinks would you choose if you found yourself in that situation? Check out 10 classy drinks below that will help you seal every deal and take charge of your professional life.
1. Moscow Mule
An impressive drink that is both light and easy to drink, the Moscow Mule contains vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice.
It is a top choice due to the classic copper mug it typically comes in.
Like many drinks, the Moscow Mule has a disputed origin story. One claim comes from the owner of LA British Pup Cock ‘n’ Bull. This story comes from John Martin, who was a marketing executive.
Martin was well-known for traveling around the country and taking pictures of bartenders holding a bottle of Smirnoff and a copper Moscow Mule mug.
The other creation claim comes from one of the bartenders at Cock ‘n’ Bull.
2. Classic Martini
Originating from America, a martini is a popular choice for many. Depending on your preference, there are numerous ways to order one.
The basics include gin and vermouth.
Shaken, not stirred, is the common phrase associated with martinis. A dirty martini contains a little olive juice and one olive.
One belief about the origin of the Martini is that it came from Martinez, California. Locals and historians both claim it was created during the mid-1800s Gold Rush.
3. Dark and Stormy
This is a lesser known drink. It is essentially a Moscow Mule with rum instead of vodka. It is available everywhere, and when you order one, you will sound very cool and knowledgeable.
Interestingly enough, the name “Dark ‘n’ Stormy” has been trademarked by Gosling Brothers Ltd. The name can only be used if the drink is made with their Black Seal Rum.
4. Gin and Tonic
Simple and classic, the gin and tonic is a pleasure to drink. Throw together gin, tonic water, and ice. Garnish with a lime, and that is it! Serve in a highball glass or rocks glass.
The Gin and Tonic come from the army of the British East India Company in India. As malaria was a problem, it was discovered that quinine could treat the disease.
Quinine was drunk in tonic water, but the taste wasn’t pleasant. As such, British officers started adding water, sugar, lime, and gin to the concoction.
Today, tonic water doesn’t contain nearly as much quinine.
5. Manhattan: King of Classy Drinks
Love whiskey? If so, consider a Manhattan drink.
Rye whiskey, vermouth, bitters make up the bulk of this drink. A Manhattan also contains an orange slice or maraschino cherry.
A go-to recipe requires 2 oz of bourbon or rye, 1 oz of sweet vermouth, and about two dashes of bitters.
The true origin of the Manhattan is unknown. One popular story is that in the 1870s, the Manhattan Club made the drink to impress the presidential candidate Samual J. Tilden. This story states that Lady Randolph Churchill was also present.
Another origin story simply states that it was invented at a Manhattan bar called Black.
6. White Russian
If you are looking for an after meal drink, definitely consider a White Russian. This is made with Kahlua, a coffee flavored liquor, vodka, and cream.
It is sweet, strong, and a joy to drink.
For a while, this drink wasn’t viewed favorably. However, there was a huge jump in its appeal in 1998 after the movie The Big Lebowski debuted.
7. Sidecar
Originating in Paris or London, a Sidecar contains cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice. It is a little bit sweet and is a great drink if you are looking to impress an investor.
Curious about how the name came about? While the exact origin is unknown, it’s believed that it was created around the end of World War I. The name comes from the motorcycle attachment for riders.
Consider making your own drinks instead of ordering them at the bar. To prepare a perfect Sidecar, combine about two tablespoons of fine sugar, three tablespoons of cognac, two tablespoons of Triple Sec, and one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice.
8. Fruity Bellinis
Ignore anyone who says bellinis aren’t cool to drink. It was created in Venice, Italy in the mid-1900s.
All it takes is peach purée and sparkling wine.
If peach isn’t your thing, don’t worry. You could substitute another fruit purée or even go in the direction of a Mimosa. This is the classic combination of orange juice and bubbly.
Mimosas can take any working brunch to the next level in 2023.
9. Wine
One last classy option is wine. Enjoyed by most, there are tons of options available. Whether red, white, or some type of blend, showing off your wine knowledge is an excellent way to impress investors.
Popped a bottle and have some left over? Seek out a nice cork topper or bring your own. Companies like WidgetCo can provide metal, cork, or even rubber stoppers!
10. Black Russian
If the White Russian sounds appealing, but you want to avoid dairy, consider a Black Russian.
Put together around 2.5 ounces of vodka and 1 ounce of Kahlua. Mix in a shaker full of ice.
This drink came about around 1949 — surprisingly, not somewhere in Russia. A Belgian bar worker created it in Brussels. The name is linked to how the drink uses vodka, a common Russian liqueur.
Nail Your Next Investor Pitch
With all these options of classy drinks, you will be well prepared to make a positive impact at your next meeting with investors.
Maybe you can even impress them with your knowledge of each drink’s origin!
Looking for more business tips? Check out these common things that hold people back in business!
