You don't need a full bar to make great cocktails. Start with a good bottle of gin or vodka, fresh citrus, and simple syrup. Here are five classics that always impress.

Negroni: Equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth—stir with ice and garnish with orange. Old Fashioned: Muddle a sugar cube with bitters, add bourbon and ice, stir. Martini: Gin (or vodka) and dry vermouth, stirred or shaken to taste.

Margarita: Tequila, lime, and orange liqueur—shake with ice and serve in a salted glass. Mojito: Muddle mint and sugar, add white rum, lime, and soda. Use fresh ingredients and good ice for best results.