BevX Cocktails

Saratoga Cocktail

If you love three ingredient cocktail recipes, and we do, you will love the Saratoga Cocktail. Lovers of the classic Manhattan will certainly be open to the rich and complex flavors found in this cocktail. Whiskey lovers and Brandy lovers have found their compromise. The original recipe dates to the 1880s, first being found in print in Jerry Thomas' iconic “Bar-Tenders Guide.” It is believed to have been created in Saratoga Springs, New York. In the 19th-century Saratoga was a vacation and gambling hotspot — Think Vegas before there was a Vegas as we know it. The possibilities are endless for this cocktail as the categories of spirits are broad and complex.

Ingredients

1 oz. Whiskey (we like American Rye)
1 oz. Brandy (we like Jerez Brandy)
1 oz. Italian Sweet Vermouth
2 healthy dashes of bitters
lemon twist for garnish

Occasion

There doesn't need to be an occasion to enjoy a Saratoga Cocktail. Happy hour, before dinner, or after dinner are all good times to sip this classic.

Method

Add all ingredients along with a handful of ice to a mixing glass. Stir, don't shake, for a good 15 seconds and then strain the drink into a chilled cocktail or coupe glass. Garnish with the lemon twist.

Variations

This cocktail more than most encourages tremendous variations while never straying from its simple 1-1-1 formula. You can use Irish Whiskey, Bourbon, or Rye among many others while the Brandy addition has just as many possibilities. We are suggesting American Rye with Jerez Brandy but the choice is yours.

Source: Classic