The Chicago Cocktail is May 12th Drink of the Day!!
The first time that this cocktail was shown in print was in restaurant critic John Drury’s guide, “Dining in Chicago” published in 1931, where he mentions it as being served in some of the finer bars in Europe and the United States. He never mentions if it was actually first concocted in Chicago, but because of the circumstances a few decades earlier in the Windy City, I would assume it had been.
The 400th Anniversary Columbian Exposition, celebrating Christopher Columbus’ discovery of the Americas, was taking place in Chicago in the late 1800s (1893). It was a place where the incandescent light bulb was introduced, the largest ferris wheel was showcased, etc. It was an exciting time here in this country. The turn of the century was only a few years away and many of the inventions we take for granted today were first brought in to be showcased to the public.
The Korbel Brothers had just started making brandy in California in 1889 and were looking for ways to market their new product. What better place than this Exposition. It made sense. A large conglomerate of German Immigrants had settled in the ChicagoLand/Milwaukee region and were known to enjoy their sweets. The brandy was a hit. In fact, still today, if ordering an Old Fashioned in the Milwaukee area, in most cases you will get it made with brandy instead of the typical bourbon or rye. I believe that this cocktail was one that was introduced during this time, hence its name. Who knows where the popularity of brandy in this country would be if not for this. A nice dessert beverage that will keep you warm inside during a chilly evening. I think you’re going to like this!
Chicago Cocktail
2 oz. Brandy
3/4 oz. Triple Sec
Two Dashes of Aromatic Bitters
Granulated Sugar
Half-Wheel of Lemon
Method: In a mixing glass filled with ice, pour in the first three ingredients to measure. Cap with a tin and shake just enough to blend the ingredients. Take the half-wheel of lemon and whetten the rim of the finished glass which will be an old fashioned glass. Then dip it into the granulated sugar that you will have put onto a saucer. Place the half-wheel of lemon on the glass after doing this. Gently add ice to the glass, trying not to bother the sugar on the rim. Strain the cocktail into the glass. Add a stir stick and serve.
This Day in History:
1932 - The body of the Lindbergh baby was found.
1937 - King George VI was crowned at Westminster Abbey.
1970 - Mr. Cub, Ernie Banks hit his 500th home run.
2002 - Former President Jimmy Carter became the first US President, in or out of office, to visit Cuba while Fidel Castro was in power.
Notable Birthday:
English nurse and the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale was born on this date in 1820.
Notable Quote:
“I attribute my success to this - I never gave or took any excuse.” - Florence Nightingale
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Category: Drink of the Day
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