The North By Northwest cocktail, a sophisticated and slightly mysterious concoction, is a modern classic that pays homage to Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic 1959 thriller of the same name. While the film is famous for its suspenseful plot and memorable scenes, the cocktail, created by Brian Miller in 2008 at Death & Company in New York City, has carved its own place in the world of mixology. It’s not just a drink; it’s a narrative in a glass, embodying the film’s themes of mistaken identity, elegance, and a touch of danger.
The Original North By Northwest Recipe
Brian Miller’s original recipe is a variation of the classic French 75, adding a layer of complexity with the inclusion of absinthe. This is how to make the North by Northwest cocktail, according to its creator:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz Gin (Aviation Gin was originally used, but any good quality gin will work.)
- 1/4 oz Absinthe
- 3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 3/4 oz Simple Syrup
- Sparkling Wine (Champagne, Prosecco, or Crémant) to top
Instructions:
- Chill: Place a Flute glass in the freezer to chill.
- Shake: In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, absinthe, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice.
- Shake Vigorously: Shake well until the shaker is cold to the touch.
- Strain: Double strain the mixture into your chilled glass.
- Top: Gently top with sparkling wine.
- Garnish: Add a lemon zest for garnish.
A Twist on a Classic
The North By Northwest cocktail is essentially a French 75 with the intriguing addition of absinthe. This addition brings a unique, anise-flavored edge that elevates the drink beyond a simple citrusy sparkling cocktail. The absinthe adds depth and a touch of herbal complexity, which complements the bright citrus and effervescence of the sparkling wine.
Variations and Interpretations
While Brian Miller’s recipe is widely accepted, the cocktail’s fame has led to some variations.
The Sloe Gin Version
One popular variation replaces the base gin with a combination of gin and sloe gin. This version, often featuring blanc vermouth, lime juice and cinnamon syrup, brings a more fruity and spicy profile.
The Bourbon Substitution
Another variation substitutes bourbon for the gin, orange juice, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino and Averell Damson Gin liqueur, creating a drink with a warmer, richer flavor. This twist leans into the idea of “mistaken identity,” mirroring the film’s plot.
The Gibson Connection
Interestingly, the character of Roger Thornhill, played by Cary Grant, actually orders a Gibson in the movie, which is essentially a Martini with a pickled onion garnish. While not the same as the North By Northwest cocktail, it is a direct nod to the film’s cocktail culture. This variation is simple, classic, and elegant:
- 2 1/2 oz Gin or Vodka
- 1/2 oz Dry Vermouth
- Garnish with a cocktail onion
The Story Behind the Sip
The cocktail’s name is a clear tribute to the suspenseful thriller, North By Northwest, where Cary Grant plays Roger Thornhill, an advertising executive who is mistaken for a spy. This mistaken identity leads him on a thrilling cross-country chase. Brian Miller aimed to create a cocktail that felt as sophisticated and intriguing as the film itself, something that Cary Grant might drink at the Plaza Hotel.
Miller has cited Cary Grant’s line from the movie, “I’ve got a job, a secretary, a mother, two ex-wives, and several bartenders that depend on me,” as inspiration for crafting a drink worthy of such a man.
The North By Northwest and Cocktail Culture
The movie North By Northwest is not just a cinematic masterpiece but a time capsule of mid-century sophistication. The inclusion of the Gibson, though not the namesake cocktail, within the movie, speaks volumes about the cocktail culture of the era. The Gibson, much like the North By Northwest cocktail, represents a sense of refinement, class, and a hint of mystery.
The Gibson itself is a simple yet elegant drink: gin or vodka and dry vermouth, stirred, not shaken, and garnished with a cocktail onion. This simplicity and elegance are echoed in the North By Northwest cocktail, albeit with a more complex flavor profile.
The enduring appeal of North By Northwest continues to influence modern cocktail culture, with drinks like this one and the Gibson serving as both a nod to the past and an inspiration for contemporary mixologists. The North By Northwest cocktail represents the power of a well-crafted drink to evoke a specific time, place, and mood.
Serving and Enjoying
The North By Northwest cocktail should always be served chilled in a flute glass. The sparkling wine, added at the end, should be poured carefully to maintain the fizz. This cocktail is perfect as an aperitif or as a celebratory drink. It’s a sophisticated choice for those who appreciate a complex, flavorful cocktail with a bit of history.
Why This Cocktail Remains Relevant
The North By Northwest cocktail has stood the test of time for several reasons:
- It’s a Tribute: It’s a well-crafted homage to a classic film, appealing to both movie buffs and cocktail enthusiasts.
- Balance of Flavors: The combination of gin, absinthe, lemon, and sparkling wine creates a unique and refreshing balance of flavors.
- Versatility: The various versions allow for experimentation, making the drink versatile for different palates and occasions.
- Storytelling: It’s a cocktail with a story, making it a conversation starter at any gathering.
In conclusion, the North By Northwest cocktail is more than just a drink; it’s a narrative, a piece of film history, and a testament to the art of mixology. Its balance of flavors and its connection to one of cinema’s most beloved thrillers make it a must-try for anyone who appreciates a good cocktail. Whether you’re a fan of Hitchcock, a cocktail aficionado, or simply looking for a sophisticated drink, the North By Northwest is sure to impress.
