Five Best Cocktails In D.C. 2012

Our guide to the best cocktails of 2012

There's never been a better time to belly up to a bar in D.C.

From classic to wildly futuristic, the concoctions we're seeing on menus around town make us happy to drink every last drop.

If you're wondering where to start, we've compiled our annual list of Tasting Table D.C.'s Best Cocktails 2012. This year's top five span spirits and flavors, from a palate-priming whiskey slushie to a Riesling-and-rum combination that could stand in for an Alsatian supper.

Each drink–all from area newcomers–represents just how far the city's cocktail scene has come.

So head out to try each at the bar, or give it a shake at home: We've procured recipes for all of them. And no need to stop there. Take a look at the top sips around the country, including in Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York and San Francisco, along with stellar one-offs from around the country in our National edition.

Bottoms up.