The Pippin No. 2 is a sophisticated cocktail that offers a delightful twist on its predecessor, the Pippin No. 1. This drink is a gin-based variation that is complex yet balanced. It’s a cocktail that’s sure to impress with its unique flavor profile and subtle nuances.
The History Behind the Pippin Cocktails
The Pippin No. 1 was created by Jason E. Clapham at St. Edward’s MCR in Oxford, England, and is named after one of Queen Elizabeth II’s beloved corgis. The Queen owned more than 30 corgis during her reign, making them a symbol of the monarchy. The Pippin No. 2 is a variation of the first cocktail, that substitutes gin for the cognac used in the original recipe.
Ingredients for a Pippin No. 2
To create a Pippin No. 2 cocktail, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ oz Gin
- 1 oz Rouge aromatised wine (such as Dubonnet)
- ¼ oz Maraschino liqueur
- ¼ oz Red bitter liqueur (such as Campari)
- Orange zest twist, for garnish
Choosing the Right Gin
The type of gin you use can significantly impact the final flavor of the Pippin No. 2. A London Dry gin with a herbal profile is recommended, as it complements the other ingredients without overpowering them. A good gin choice will allow its botanical notes to shine through while harmonizing with the other flavors.
The Role of Rouge Aromatised Wine
Rouge aromatised wine, such as Dubonnet, adds a rich, slightly sweet, and complex character to the cocktail. Its herbal and spiced notes contribute to the depth of the drink. If Dubonnet is not available, a mix of Lillet Blanc and Rouge vermouth can be used as a substitute.
Maraschino Liqueur and Red Bitter Liqueur
Maraschino liqueur brings a unique cherry flavor with a hint of almond, adding a subtle sweetness and complexity. The red bitter liqueur, like Campari, offers a counterpoint with its bitter and citrusy notes. This balance of sweet and bitter is crucial to the cocktail’s overall profile.
How to Make a Pippin No. 2
Making a Pippin No. 2 is a straightforward process:
- Chill: Start by pre-chilling a coupe glass. This will help maintain the cocktail’s temperature.
- Prepare the Garnish: Prepare an orange zest twist for garnish. The oils from the zest will add an aromatic element to the drink.
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, rouge aromatised wine, maraschino liqueur, and red bitter liqueur.
- Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
- Strain: Fine strain the mixture into the pre-chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish: Express the orange zest twist over the cocktail to release its oils, then use it as a garnish.
Tasting Notes
The Pippin No. 2 is a well-balanced cocktail with a complex flavor profile. The gin provides a botanical base, while the rouge aromatised wine adds a layer of sweetness and spice. The maraschino liqueur brings a hint of cherry, and the red bitter liqueur contributes a pleasant bitterness. The orange zest enhances the aroma and adds a citrus note that ties everything together.
Variations and Similar Cocktails
While the Pippin No. 2 is a unique creation, it shares some similarities with other classic cocktails:
- Pippin No. 1: The original recipe uses cognac instead of gin, creating a richer, slightly fruitier flavor profile.
- Negroni: The use of a red bitter liqueur in both cocktails gives them a slightly bitter edge. However, the Pippin No. 2 is not as strongly bitter.
- Other Gin Cocktails: The Pippin No. 2 can be compared to other gin cocktails that use aromatized wines.
- Penicillin No. 2: This cocktail shares a similar name but is very different in terms of its ingredients. The Penicillin No. 2 contains peated whiskey, ginger liqueur, orange-honey syrup, lemon juice and bitters.
- Pippin Flip: The Pippin Flip is a dessert cocktail made with applejack, amaro, grenadine and egg.
Serving Suggestions
The Pippin No. 2 is best served as an aperitif or a sophisticated cocktail for a special occasion. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with light appetizers. Due to its complex flavor profile, it is a great conversation starter.
The Appeal of the Pippin No. 2
The Pippin No. 2 stands out for several reasons:
- Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of gin, rouge aromatised wine, maraschino liqueur, and red bitter liqueur is unusual and provides a complex and engaging drinking experience.
- Royal Connection: Its connection to the British Royal Family adds a touch of prestige and history.
- Balance: The cocktail strikes a balance between sweet, bitter, and herbal notes, making it enjoyable for a wide range of palates.
- Simplicity: Despite its complex flavor, the cocktail is relatively easy to make with just a few ingredients.
The Pippin No. 2 is more than just a drink; it is a blend of history, flavor, and sophistication. Its unique taste profile, combined with its royal connection, makes it a memorable choice for any occasion. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, the Pippin No. 2 is definitely worth exploring. It’s a refined and balanced drink that offers a delightful twist on classic cocktails.
