The Cosmopolitan has been a favorite with cocktail drinkers for many years, and its popularity grew even more due to its portrayal in the hit television series, "Sex and the City." Every bartender needs to know how to properly make a "Cosmo."

It is rumored that the drink originated because so many thought it was cool to be seen holding a martini glass, so why not create a really delicious tasting drink with great visual appeal to serve in the same style of glass?

How to Make a Cosmopolitan

The standard pub version of the Cosmopolitan contains 1-1/2 ounces of vodka and 1 ounce of triple sec. Two popular choices for triple sec include Grand Marnier and Cointreau. A higher grade brand of triple sec makes for a tastier cocktail as opposed to using the cheap stuff.

The final two ingredients are cranberry juice (just a dash) and lime juice (1/2 ounce). Fresh lime juice is preferred, but Rose's Lime Juice is a great substitute if fresh is unavailable. The cranberry juice is more for appearance than taste, so it is important not to overdo it or it will change the intended flavor of the Cosmopolitan.

Place the contents in a cocktail shaker along with some ice. Shake vigorously and strain the beverage into a Cosmo cocktail glass, also referred to as a martini glass. However, don't confuse the two drinks because they are quite different. For a garnish, add an orange and a lime slice to the rim of the glass.

Cosmopolitan Variations

Depending on location, personal preference, and the bartender making the drink, a Cosmopolitan can come with some variations. The original recipe was designed around the use of lemon flavored vodka. Other variations may omit the cranberry juice, add more of it for the flavor it imparts, or use another type of citrus flavored vodka.

There is not really a wrong way to make a Cosmopolitan cocktail because it is based much on personal preference. Some bartenders shake the drink without the lime, and instead squeeze it directly into the cocktail glass after the drink is poured.

Some people enjoy a Blue Cosmopolitan, which is a variation that has no triple sec but uses Blue Curacao instead. It is common to use white rather than red cranberry juice in a Blue Cosmo so as not to affect the blue drink color.

Professional bartenders most often use a chilled glass for Cosmopolitans, but it is not an absolute requirement. Some people avoid the shaker altogether and simply mix and stir the cocktail in the glass. The way the drink is made and the different variations are based on preference and experimentation.

Perfecting Your Cosmo Style

Once you've perfected your own personal style of Cosmo, you are ready to show off your skills by hosting a cocktail party. This is a popular and often requested drink, so be prepared with plenty of chilled glasses on hand.

Glasses can be chilled by placing them in a chiller containing ice. Place the chiller near the serving area so the glasses will be handy when needed. Another way to chill the glasses is by placing them in the freezer.

When you've got the skills mastered for the perfect Cosmopolitan cocktail, you'll be the hit of the party.