The Man o’ War cocktail has a neat back story. Named after one of the greatest thoroughbred racing horses of all time. I think the story goes, Man o’War was named because the owner had just been sent overseas to World War 1. The horse won two legs of the Triple Crown in 1920 but the owner decided not to race the Kentucky Derby because the track was too long. Man o’War retired to stud and has a long sire line of famous horses including the War Admiral and Seabiscuit.
From what I’ve read, no one knows who or when the Man o’War drink was invented. Most suggest it comes from Kentucky and came about in the mid 20th century. So a long time ago, regardless. This one is good. I find that Grand Marnier is a little sweet as is the vermouth. The lemon juice and bourbon cut through the sweetness. I also used a high proof, single barrel bourbon which helped. I was tempted to switch the sweet vermouth with Amaro but I decided against it in order to try the actually original recipe. I’m glad I didn’t, as I said, this one is good.
Ingredients for a Man o’ War Cocktail
- 2 ounces bourbon
- 1 ounce Grand Marnier
- 1/2 ounce sweet vermouth
- 1/2 ounce lemon juice
- Lemon peel and Luxardo Cherries for garnish
How to make a Man o’ War Cocktail
- Add bourbon, Grand Marnier, sweet vermouth and lemon juice to a cocktail mixer and shake until well chilled. Approximately 20 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or Nick and Nora glass.
- Garnish with lemon peel and Luxardo Cherries.
one foodie 