Manhattan, Dirty Martini, Sazerac, and Mint Julep – these Classic American Cocktails are some of the most iconic drinks, well-known in top bars around the world. All of them have their origins in the United States, and we’ve dedicated this editorial to showcasing these timeless classics.
Dirty Martini
Originating as a variation of the classic Martini, the Dirty Martini is an American favorite known for its savory twist, thanks to the addition of olive brine. Its roots lie in early 20th-century American cocktail culture.
- Ingredients:
- 1.75 oz (50 ml) London Dry Gin
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) olive brine
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) dry vermouth
- 2 dashes of orange bitters
- Method: Shake ingredients with ice.
- Glass: Coupette
- Garnish: Olive
Manhattan
First created in the late 1800s in New York City, the Manhattan is one of the oldest and most iconic American cocktails. Traditionally made with whiskey, vermouth, and bitters, it has remained a staple of American mixology.
- Ingredients:
- 1.75 oz (50 ml) bourbon
- 0.75 oz (25 ml) sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes of orange bitters
- Method: Stir in a mixing glass with ice.
- Glass: Coupette
- Garnish: Express orange peel over the drink and discard.
Sazerac
Hailing from New Orleans, the Sazerac is one of the earliest recorded American cocktails. Originally made with cognac, it evolved into a rye whiskey-based drink and remains a hallmark of the vibrant New Orleans cocktail scene.
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz (30 ml) rye whiskey
- 1 oz (30 ml) cognac
- 0.33 oz (10 ml) simple syrup
- 3 dashes of Peychaud’s Bitters
- 2 sprays of absinthe
- Method: Stir in a mixing glass, rinse the glass with absinthe, and pour the cocktail into it.
- Glass: Rocks or whiskey glass
- Garnish: Express lemon peel over the drink and discard.
Mint Julep
A quintessential Southern cocktail, the Mint Julep has long been associated with the Kentucky Derby and American aristocracy. Its refreshing combination of bourbon, mint, and sugar makes it perfect for warm-weather sipping.
- Ingredients:
- 1.75 oz (50 ml) bourbon
- 0.33 oz (10 ml) simple syrup
- 10 fresh mint leaves
- Method: Mix ingredients with crushed ice in a julep cup.
- Glass: Julep cup
- Garnish: Mint sprigs, lime wedge
Gin Rickey
Born in Washington, D.C., the Gin Rickey is a highball cocktail that became popular in the late 19th century. It’s a simple, refreshing combination of gin, lime, and soda water that remains a go-to in American bars.
- Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz (45 ml) gin
- 1 oz (30 ml) lime juice
- Top with club soda
- Method: Build directly in a highball glass with ice.
- Glass: Highball
- Garnish: Lime or lemon peel
These cocktails represent the rich history of American mixology and are staples for any bartender looking to master the classics. Whether you’re stirring up a bold Manhattan or shaking a crisp Dirty Martini, these drinks offer the perfect balance of flavor and tradition.
Cocktails by: Tomas Ondrejcak [Mirror Bar]
Photo: Daniel Banic
