Brooklyn Cocktail

Description

Ingredients:

• 2 oz rye whiskey
• 1 oz dry vermouth
• 1/4 oz maraschino liqueur
• 1/4 oz Amer Picon or a substitute like Torani Amer (if unavailable, use a combination of orange bitters and a small amount of Aperol or Campari)
• Orange peel for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add the rye whiskey, dry vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and Amer Picon (or substitute) to a mixing glass filled with ice.
2. Stir until well chilled, about 30 seconds.
3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
4. Express the oil from an orange peel over the surface of the cocktail and use it as garnish.

The Origin of the Brooklyn Cocktail

The exact origin of the Brooklyn cocktail is uncertain, but it is believed to have been created sometime in the early 20th century, likely in the borough of Brooklyn in New York City. The cocktail appears in print as early as 1908, when it was included in a book by a bartender named Jacob Grohusko. Grohusko worked at a bar in Brooklyn called the Hotel Bossert, which was a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

The Brooklyn cocktail is often compared to the Manhattan cocktail, which uses similar ingredients but substitutes sweet vermouth for dry vermouth and does not include maraschino liqueur or Amer Picon (or a substitute). Some speculate that the Brooklyn cocktail was created as a way to showcase the flavors of dry vermouth, which had become more popular in the early 20th century.

Over time, the Brooklyn cocktail fell out of favor and became less well-known than the Manhattan or other classic cocktails. However, in recent years it has experienced a resurgence in popularity thanks to the revival of classic cocktails and interest in local and regional spirits. Today, the Brooklyn cocktail is enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world and can be found on many cocktail menus.

Brooklyn Cocktail Traditions

The Brooklyn cocktail is a classic cocktail with a rich history, and as such, it has a few traditions associated with it. Here are some common traditions associated with the Brooklyn cocktail:

1. Mixing and Serving: Like many classic cocktails, the Brooklyn cocktail is typically mixed and served in a chilled glass. It is usually stirred with ice and then strained into a cocktail glass or a coupe.
2. Garnish: The Brooklyn cocktail is traditionally garnished with a twist of orange peel. To add the garnish, bartenders will often hold a piece of orange peel over the drink, gently squeeze it to release the oils, and then drop it into the drink.
3. Variation: There are a few variations of the Brooklyn cocktail, including the Greenpoint, which substitutes yellow chartreuse for the Amer Picon or a substitute. The Red Hook cocktail is also similar to the Brooklyn cocktail, but uses Punt e Mes instead of dry vermouth.
4. Seasonal Adaptations: The Brooklyn cocktail can be adapted to suit different seasons or occasions. For example, during the winter months, some bartenders will add a dash of cinnamon syrup to the cocktail to give it a warm, spiced flavor.

Overall, the traditions associated with the Brooklyn cocktail are relatively simple, but they are an important part of its history and the enjoyment of the drink.

Modern Brooklyn Cocktail Trends

In recent years, the Brooklyn cocktail has experienced a resurgence in popularity among cocktail enthusiasts, leading to some modern trends and adaptations. Here are a few modern Brooklyn cocktail trends:

1. Use of Artisanal Ingredients: Modern bartenders often use high-quality, artisanal ingredients in their Brooklyn cocktails, such as small-batch vermouths and bitters. This can elevate the flavors and complexity of the cocktail.
2. Incorporation of Unique Flavors: Many modern Brooklyn cocktails feature unique flavors, such as barrel-aged bitters, smoked syrups, or unusual liqueurs. These ingredients can add depth and complexity to the cocktail, while still maintaining the classic structure of the drink.
3. Experimentation with Garnishes: While the classic garnish for a Brooklyn cocktail is an orange twist, some modern bartenders have experimented with different garnishes, such as dried apple slices, rosemary sprigs, or even edible flowers.
4. Incorporation of Seasonal Ingredients: As with many cocktails, some modern bartenders have adapted the Brooklyn cocktail to suit the season. For example, a winter Brooklyn cocktail might feature a spiced syrup or a hint of ginger, while a summer version might incorporate fresh berries or herbs.

Overall, the modern Brooklyn cocktail scene is all about experimentation and innovation, while still honoring the classic structure and flavors of the drink.

Related Сocktails

The Brooklyn cocktail is a classic drink that has inspired a number of related cocktails over the years. Here are a few examples of Brooklyn-inspired cocktails:

1. Greenpoint: The Greenpoint cocktail is a modern variation on the Brooklyn cocktail, named after the Brooklyn neighborhood of the same name. It features rye whiskey, yellow Chartreuse, sweet vermouth, and a dash of Angostura bitters.
2. Red Hook: The Red Hook cocktail is another Brooklyn-inspired drink, named after the Red Hook neighborhood in Brooklyn. It features rye whiskey, Punt e Mes (a type of sweet vermouth), and Maraschino liqueur.
3. Bensonhurst: The Bensonhurst cocktail is a lesser-known Brooklyn-inspired drink that features gin, dry vermouth, Maraschino liqueur, and Cynar (an Italian bitter liqueur made from artichokes).
4. Cobble Hill: The Cobble Hill cocktail is a modern variation on the Brooklyn that features rye whiskey, dry vermouth, Punt e Mes, and a dash of orange bitters. It is named after the Cobble Hill neighborhood in Brooklyn.

These cocktails all share some similarities with the Brooklyn cocktail, but each one has its own unique flavor profile and ingredients. They are all worth trying for anyone who enjoys the classic flavors of the Brooklyn cocktail and wants to explore new variations.

Enjoy your classic Brooklyn cocktail!