Martinez Cocktail

The Martinez cocktail has a rich history dating back to the 1800s. Its origins are debated, with claims of influencing modern martinis and having traits of a martini and a Manhattan. The original recipe called for equal parts gin and sweet vermouth, but variations exist. A classic recipe includes London Dry Gin, sweet vermouth, Luxardo maraschino liqueur, Angostura bitters, and an orange twist garnish. Stir and strain over ice for a delightful, old-school cocktail experience.

Monte Carlo Cocktail

The origin of the Monte Carlo Cocktail remains unclear, appearing in a cocktail recipe book from the late 1940s. It combines rye whisky, Bénédictine, and Angostura bitters, resembling both a Manhattan and an Old Fashioned. The drink, served over ice, can be garnished with a lemon twist.

The Preakness Cocktail

The Preakness cocktail, inspired by the Preakness Stakes, is a variant of the Manhattan, incorporating Benedictine for a unique flavor. It combines rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, Benedictine, bitters, and is garnished with a lemon twist.

The Cure Cocktail

I attended a sales conference, got COVID and bunkered in with my wife. Although The Cure Cocktail didn’t cure us, we enjoyed making and drinking it. The cocktail’s ingredients include vodka, ginger syrup, lemon juice, bitters, and lemon peel.

Classic Manhattan Cocktail

The post presents a classic Manhattan cocktail recipe, highlighting its simplicity with just three ingredients: rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. It instructs readers on how to mix and serve the drink, garnishing with a maraschino cherry. Additional variations are provided.

The Fancy Free Cocktail

The Fancy Free Cocktail, originating in the 1940s, is a variation of the Improved Whiskey Cocktail, substituting Canadian Whiskey with bourbon. Recommended bourbons include Elijah Craig Small Batch or Old Forester Signature. The recipe features bourbon, maraschino liqueur, Angostura and orange bitters, garnished with an orange twist.

The Pegu Club Cocktail

The Pegu Club Cocktail, originating in early 20th century Southeast Asia, is gaining popularity with slight modifications. This gin-based drink omits egg whites and incorporates two bitters, using Grand Marnier instead of traditional triple sec. The recipe includes gin, Grand Marnier, lime juice, and bitters, resulting in a savory cocktail.

Improved (Strawberry) Whiskey Cocktail

In the mid to late 1800s, “a cocktail” primarily consisted of liquor, sugar, and water. The Improved Whiskey cocktail added imports like maraschino liqueur or absinthe. The original recipe does not include strawberry simple syrup but can be substituted with other syrups. Serving it on the rocks balances the strong flavor.

Brandy Crusta Cocktail

I’ve been deeply into classic New Orleans cocktails, especially the Sazerac, Vieux Carré, A La Louisiane, and Creole. Here I’ve made a modified Brandy Crusta using Armagnac, Grand Marnier, and ginger simple syrup instead of the original ingredients. This adjustment gave the drink a spicier kick and less sweetness.

Vieux Carré Cocktail

The Vieux Carré cocktail, originating from New Orleans in the 1930s, features a blend of rye whiskey, Armagnac, sweet vermouth, Benedictine, and bitters. Despite differing pronunciations, it remains a popular choice. The process involves mixing the ingredients with ice and garnishing with a Luxardo cherry. The debate over pronunciation adds an interesting touch to its history.