Abstract: Beverage composition and methods for preparing beverages are disclosed. In one embodiment, an alcohol-based syrup is provided. The alcohol-based syrup is combinable with water to form a beverage that replicates an alcoholic cocktail. The syrup is dispensed in selected proportions with water through a typical soda gun or soda machine to achieve consistent drink quality. A large quantity of syrup can be easily dispensed to produce a significant number of consistent and high quality alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic beverages are dispensed in a speedy fashion allowing restaurants and other beverage-serving establishments to provide quality beverages to many customers in a quick and consistent fashion. The syrup is easily stored and transported to ensure longer shelf life than traditional cocktail ingredients.