Description
The Alaska cocktail is a classic cocktail that dates back to the early 20th century. It is a simple yet elegant cocktail that is made with gin and yellow Chartreuse, with a dash of orange bitters. Here’s how you can make an Alaska cocktail:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- 3/4 oz yellow Chartreuse
- 1 dash orange bitters
- Lemon peel, for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add gin, yellow Chartreuse, and orange bitters to the mixing glass.
- Stir until well chilled, about 20-30 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lemon peel.
Popular Alaska Cocktail Garnishes
The Alaska Cocktail is a classic cocktail made with gin and yellow Chartreuse. This elegant cocktail is often served without a garnish, as the simplicity of the drink is part of its charm. However, if you’re looking for a way to add a touch of flair and sophistication to your Alaska Cocktail, here are a few popular garnish options:
- Lemon twist – A simple twist of lemon peel is a classic garnish for many gin-based cocktails, and it works particularly well with the Alaska Cocktail. The citrus oils from the peel can add a bright, refreshing aroma and flavor to the drink.
- Sage or thyme sprig – Adding a small sprig of fresh sage or thyme to the cocktail can add a subtle herbal note that complements the botanical flavors in the gin and Chartreuse.
- Edible flowers – For an elegant and sophisticated touch, consider adding a small edible flower, such as a pansy or a violet, as a garnish. This can add a pop of color and a delicate floral note to the cocktail.
- Cocktail cherry – A maraschino cherry can be a classic and simple garnish for the Alaska Cocktail. It can add a touch of sweetness and a contrasting color to the drink.
- Green Chartreuse float – For an extra dose of Chartreuse flavor and a stunning presentation, consider floating a small amount of green Chartreuse on top of the cocktail. This can create a beautiful layered effect and enhance the herbal notes of the drink.
Remember, the Alaska Cocktail is a simple and elegant cocktail that doesn’t require a lot of garnish or embellishment. Whatever garnish you choose, make sure it complements the flavors of the drink rather than overpowering them.
Modern Alaska Cocktail Trends
The Alaska Cocktail is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time, but modern bartenders are always looking for new and innovative ways to update and reinvent classic drinks. Here are some modern Alaska Cocktail trends:
- Using barrel-aged gin – Many modern bartenders are using barrel-aged gin to give the Alaska Cocktail a unique twist. Barrel-aged gin has a richer, smoother flavor that can complement the herbal notes of the Chartreuse.
- Experimenting with different types of Chartreuse – There are two types of Chartreuse: green and yellow. Some bartenders are experimenting with using both types of Chartreuse in the Alaska Cocktail, or using other herbal liqueurs as a substitute.
- Incorporating a different spirit – Some bartenders are adding a small amount of another spirit, such as mezcal or absinthe, to the Alaska Cocktail to give it a smoky or anise flavor.
- Using a different type of bitters – Adding a dash of a different type of bitters, such as grapefruit or lavender bitters, can add complexity and depth to the Alaska Cocktail.
- Garnishing with smoked herbs – Smoked herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, can add a unique and modern touch to the Alaska Cocktail, as well as complementing any smoky flavors in the drink.
These are just a few modern trends that have emerged for the Alaska Cocktail. As with any cocktail, the possibilities are endless, and bartenders are always looking for new and exciting ways to reinvent classic drinks.
Fast Facts About Alaska Cocktail
- The Alaska cocktail is a classic gin-based cocktail that originated in the early 20th century.
- The cocktail typically consists of gin, yellow Chartreuse, and orange bitters, although there are variations that include additional ingredients such as vermouth.
- The Alaska cocktail is a stirred cocktail, which means it is typically stirred with ice and strained into a chilled glass.
- The origins of the Alaska cocktail are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been created sometime in the early 1900s.
- The cocktail is named after the state of Alaska, but there is little information about why it was given this name.
- The Alaska cocktail is a relatively strong cocktail, with a relatively high alcohol content compared to some other classic cocktails.
- While the Alaska cocktail is not as well-known as some other classic cocktails like the martini or the Manhattan, it is still a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts and can be found on the menus of many cocktail bars around the world.
Related Сocktails
The Alaska Cocktail is a classic cocktail that features gin and yellow Chartreuse. While there are no direct cocktails that are related to the Alaska Cocktail, there are several cocktails that share similar ingredients or flavor profiles. Here are a few cocktails that are related to the Alaska Cocktail:
- The Last Word: This cocktail is a classic gin-based cocktail that also features Chartreuse, like the Alaska Cocktail. It also includes Maraschino liqueur and fresh lime juice, giving it a tart, sweet and herbal flavor profile. It is served up in a cocktail glass and garnished with a lime wheel.
- The Bijou: This cocktail also features gin and Chartreuse, but it also includes sweet vermouth and orange bitters, giving it a more complex flavor profile. It is served up in a cocktail glass and garnished with a lemon twist.
- The Corpse Reviver No. 2: This classic cocktail is a gin-based cocktail that also features Lillet Blanc and Cointreau, giving it a sweet and floral flavor profile. It also includes a splash of absinthe, which adds a unique herbal note to the cocktail. It is served up in a cocktail glass and garnished with a lemon twist.
While these cocktails may not be direct variations of the Alaska Cocktail, they share similar ingredients or flavor profiles and are worth trying if you enjoy the herbal and slightly sweet taste of the Alaska Cocktail.
Enjoy your delicious and elegant Alaska cocktail!