Cocktails have become an integral part of bar culture, but behind each of them there is a story – sometimes romantic, sometimes mystical, and sometimes contradictory. Let’s uncover the mysteries of the origin of the most famous cocktails.
Old Fashioned – the drink of real gentlemen
Old Fashioned is one of the oldest cocktails, first mentioned back in 1806. Its classic formula – whiskey, sugar, batter and a little water – has long been the standard of a “proper” drink. The recipe is said to have gained popularity thanks to the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky, and was later spread to New York City. Old Fashioned is still a symbol of elegance and good taste.
Martini – the mystery of Agent 007
This cocktail is associated with the image of James Bond, but its history began long before the appearance of the famous spy. Some sources claim that Martini appeared in 1860s in the city of Martinez (California), others – that its recipe was created by bartender Jerry Thomas in the late XIX century. The classic Martini consists of gin and dry vermouth, but its variations (e.g. Vodka Martini) became popular thanks to Hollywood.
Margarita – love hidden in a glass
There are many versions of the origin of Margarita, but the most romantic one is about the Mexican dancer Margarita, for whom the bartender created the perfect drink. The cocktail with tequila, lime juice and triple sec appeared in the 1930-40s and quickly gained popularity in the United States. Today, the Margarita is a symbol of summer parties and vacations by the sea.
Mojito is Hemingway’s favorite drink
This Cuban cocktail dates back to the 16th century, when its prototype was a drink called El Draque, named after the pirate Francis Drake. The modern Mojito – a mixture of rum, mint, lime, sugar and soda – became popular in the 20th century, and its main fan was Ernest Hemingway, who often ordered it at the La Bodeguita del Medio bar in Havana.
Negroni is an accidental discovery
Negroni came into being thanks to Count Camillo Negroni, who in 1919 in a Florentine bar asked to make his Americano (a cocktail with Campari and vermouth) stronger by adding gin instead of soda. Thus came one of the most stylish Italian cocktails, with a deep bitterness and subtle flavor.
Manhattan – the drink of politicians and millionaires
This cocktail was created in the 1870s in the New York club “Manhattan”, where a banquet was held in honor of the victory of a presidential candidate. The classic recipe – bourbon, red vermouth and bitters – has become a symbol of elegance and strength. The Manhattan remains a favorite among connoisseurs of strong cocktails.
Daiquiri – a refreshing taste of the Caribbean
The cocktail with rum, lime and sugar was born in Cuba at the end of the XIX century. Engineer Jennings Cox, who worked at a mine in Daiquiri, mixed rum with lime juice to refresh himself on a hot day. The drink quickly gained popularity, and in the 20th century it was served in the most sophisticated bars.
The histories of cocktails are full of myths, legends and unexpected discoveries. They were created in different parts of the world, becoming symbols of epochs, passion and creativity of bartenders. Taste classic cocktails and touch the history captured in every sip!
