In the lines of less is more, and simple is classy, most classic cocktails are really quite simple to make. The best cocktails are those that are complex in flavor but have only a few ingredients. Here are a few three-ingredient cocktails that you should try making.

1. The Old Fashioned
A traditional yet versatile drink is the Old Fashioned. History buffs will love that the Old Fashioned matches the first recorded definition of the cocktail – a mix of spirits, sugar, and bitters. Put half a teaspoon of sugar and three dashes of Angostura bitters in a rocks glass. Add a teaspoon of water and stir until the sugar dissolves. Place a few large ice cubes and add 2 ounces of bourbon and stir to combine. Garnish with an orange peel over the glass. If you want a modern twist, use simple syrup. While traditionally made with whiskey, you can use any spirit you have on hand.

2. Margarita
A popular choice for bar-goers and home enthusiasts alike is the Margarita. You can make this in two varieties, shaken and frozen. Traditionally, triple sec or liqueur is necessary. For best results, use high-quality tequila irrespective of whether you enjoy Cointreau or Tommy’s style agave. In a cocktail shaker loaded with ice, add 2 ounces Blanco tequila, half an ounce orange liqueur, 1-ounce lime juice, and half-ounce agave syrup and shake well till you see condensation. Strain over fresh ice in a classic coupe glass. You can line the rim with kosher salt and garnish with a lime wheel.

3. Manhattan
A home-bartending staple is the Manhattan. A perfect combination of sweet vermouth, whiskey bitters, and brandied cherry that can make you feel elegant on your couch is the Manhattan. This drink, invented in 1880, requires two ounces of bourbon or rye, an ounce of sweet vermouth, and two dashes of Angostura bitters, all together in a mixing glass with ice. Wait till well-chilled. Strain this concoction into an ice-cold coupe, garnish with a brandied cherry and enjoy. While rye gives a spicier profile, bourbon creates a mellow and less edgy drink.

4. Simple Screwdriver
It does not get easier or more refreshing than this cocktail. It is a marked preference at brunch cocktails. Add an ounce and a half of vodka to a highball glass filled with ice. Top with five ounces orange juice that is pulp-free or freshly squeezed, and garnish with an orange slice. You can add flavored vodka to add character, either cucumber, vanilla, or rosemary-strawberry.

5. Negroni
Invented by Count Camillo Negroni in 20th century Florence, the Negroni is a delightful cocktail. It is easy to make and is rather refreshingly bitter. Its lasting popularity for 100 years is a true testament to show how simple is best. Add an ounce each of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth in a glass filled with ice. Stir till the drink is well-chilled and strain into a rocks glass filled with large ice cubes. Garnish with an orange peel. Use a strongly flavored gin to combat the aggressive Campari for an enchanting drink.