Description
The Ampersand cocktail is a classic cocktail that combines the flavors of gin and sweet vermouth, with a splash of orange bitters. Here’s a recipe to make one:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a mixing glass filled with ice, add the gin, sweet vermouth, and orange bitters.
- Stir for about 30 seconds, until the mixture is well chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist and serve.
The Origin of the Ampersand Cocktail
The exact origin of the Ampersand cocktail is unknown, but it is believed to have been created in the early 20th century. The cocktail likely takes its name from the symbol “&”, which is also known as the ampersand.
The ampersand symbol has its roots in ancient Roman script, where the letters “et” (meaning “and”) were often written together as a ligature. Over time, this ligature evolved into the symbol we know today as the ampersand.
As for the cocktail, it is likely that the use of the name “Ampersand” was simply a nod to the symbol’s association with the word “and”. The combination of gin and sweet vermouth, with a splash of bitters, is a classic combination that has been used in many cocktails over the years, and the Ampersand is just one variation on this theme.
While the exact origins of the Ampersand cocktail may be lost to history, its popularity has endured, and it remains a popular choice for cocktail enthusiasts around the world.
Modern Ampersand Cocktail Trends
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in classic cocktails like the Ampersand. However, as with many classic cocktails, there has also been a trend toward putting a modern twist on the recipe.
One trend is to use artisanal or craft gin in place of the more traditional London dry gin. Artisanal gins often have unique botanical profiles, which can add depth and complexity to the cocktail. Some bartenders also experiment with barrel-aged gins, which can add a subtle oaky flavor to the drink.
Another trend is to use a different type of vermouth. While sweet vermouth is the traditional choice for the Ampersand, some bartenders have experimented with using dry vermouth or even bianco vermouth (which is a sweeter, less bitter type of vermouth). This can give the drink a lighter, more delicate flavor.
Finally, some bartenders have added their own unique twists to the recipe by incorporating other ingredients. For example, a splash of grapefruit juice or a dash of rose water can add a subtle, refreshing flavor to the drink. Some bartenders have even experimented with using different types of bitters, such as lavender bitters or celery bitters.
Despite these modern twists, the basic recipe for the Ampersand remains the same, and its popularity as a classic cocktail continues to endure.
Related Сocktails
The Ampersand cocktail is a classic cocktail that is part of a larger family of cocktails known as the “Martini-style” drinks, which typically combine gin or vodka with vermouth and bitters. Here are a few related cocktails that you might also enjoy:
- Martini: The Martini is one of the most iconic cocktails in the world, and it is made with gin or vodka, dry vermouth, and a dash of orange bitters. It is usually served with a twist of lemon or an olive.
- Negroni: The Negroni is another classic cocktail that is made with gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, an Italian bitter liqueur. It is typically served on the rocks with a twist of orange.
- Manhattan: The Manhattan is a whiskey-based cocktail that is made with rye or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and a dash of bitters. It is usually served in a martini glass with a cherry garnish.
- Rob Roy: The Rob Roy is a Scotch-based cocktail that is made with sweet vermouth and bitters. It is similar to a Manhattan, but with Scotch in place of the whiskey.
- Bijou: The Bijou is a gin-based cocktail that is made with sweet vermouth, green Chartreuse, and bitters. It is typically served up in a cocktail glass with a lemon twist.
Each of these cocktails has its own unique flavor profile and history, and they are all worth trying if you enjoy the classic flavors of the Ampersand cocktail.
Enjoy your Ampersand cocktail!
