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.

The Rolls Royce Cocktail

The Rolls Royce cocktail originated in the 1930s, featuring a blend of gin, dry and sweet vermouth, Bénédictine, and optional orange bitters. This for is balance yet boozy, making “I’ll make it again” list.

White Lotus (Lychee Vesper) Martini

I’m finishing up watching White Lotus with the wife, sparked by Walton Goggins’ (she is a fan). I came across the White Lotus Martini cocktail and gave it a try.

The Bijou Cocktail

The Bijou cocktail, originating in the 1890s, combines gin, sweet vermouth, and Chartreuse. A modern twist uses more gin and adds orange bitters. This complex drink is recommended, and it can be made with a substitute, Faccia Brutto Centerbe.

Tuxedo No. 2 Cocktail

The Tuxedo No. 2 is a classic cocktail from the early 1900s, featuring gin, dry vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and orange bitters, with absinthe for rinsing. We love the complex flavors ideal for gin lovers seeking a refined drink.

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.

Boulevardier Cocktail

The Boulevardier cocktail has a fascinating origin, created at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris during prohibition. It’s a twist on the Negroni, using whiskey instead of gin. The bittersweet flavors of Campari and Vermouth make it appealing, and the recipe involves rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, Campari, and an orange peel garnish.

Summer Peach Manhattan

The Summer Peach Manhattan is a cocktail inspired by South Carolina Peach Ice Cream. The recipe uses the macerating liquid from the ice cream to make peach simple syrup. The cocktail also includes whiskey, aromatic bitters, and orange bitters. Simply mix the ingredients, strain, garnish with peach, and savor the delightful cocktail.

Corpse Reviver No. 1 Cocktail

In 2023, I made the Corpse Reviver No. 2. It’s my favorite non-whiskey drink, with a balance of sweet and sour flavors and botanical notes. I also discovered the Corpse Reviver No. 1, which I slightly modified with Armagnac and extra measures.