The East India No. 2 cocktail is a classic concoction with a rich history, evoking the spice trade and colonial India. This sophisticated drink balances the warmth of brandy with the sweetness of pineapple and the complexity of bitters and curaçao. It’s a drink that whispers tales of faraway lands and bygone eras.
Delving into the History
The East India Cocktail first appeared in the late 19th century, with a recipe published in Harry Johnson’s 1882 New and Improved Bartender’s Manual. Johnson later updated the recipe in his 1900 edition, noting it was “a great favorite with the English living in the different parts of East India.” The cocktail’s name is inspired by the East India Company, which was founded in 1600. This company played a key role in global trade, particularly between England and the East, dealing in spices, tea, and other valuable goods.
There are differing opinions regarding the origins of the East India No. 2, but one popular theory suggests that the pineapple version of the cocktail first appeared in Robert Vermeire’s 1922 Cocktails: How to Mix Them and later in Frank Meier’s 1936 The Artistry of Mixing Drinks.
The East India No. 2 Recipe
Here’s a classic recipe for the East India No. 2 cocktail:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz (60 ml) Cognac (or Brandy)
- ½ oz (15 ml) Orange Curaçao
- ½ oz (15 ml) Pineapple Juice (or 1 tsp Pineapple Syrup)
- 1 bar spoon (5 ml) Pineapple Syrup (if using Pineapple Juice)
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Lemon peel and Maraschino cherry for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Chill your glass: Place a coupe or martini glass in the freezer to chill, or fill it with ice and set aside.
- Combine ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the cognac, orange curaçao, pineapple juice or pineapple syrup, and Angostura bitters.
- Add ice: Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake well: Close the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until well-chilled.
- Strain: Discard the ice from your chilled glass. Using a cocktail strainer, strain the mixture into the glass. For a smoother drink, use a fine strainer.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lemon peel and a maraschino cherry, if desired.
Variations and Interpretations
Like many classic cocktails, the East India No. 2 has inspired numerous variations. Some recipes call for raspberry syrup instead of pineapple, creating a different flavor profile. Others experiment with different types of bitters or add a splash of rum for an extra kick.
- East India No. 1: Uses raspberry syrup instead of pineapple syrup or juice.
- East India House Cocktail: A variation that includes cognac, pineapple syrup, maraschino liqueur, orange curaçao, and orange bitters.
Selecting the Right Ingredients
The quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the final taste of the cocktail.
Brandy or Cognac
Brandy forms the base of the East India No. 2, so selecting a good quality one is essential. Cognac, a type of brandy produced in the Cognac region of France, is a popular choice.
Orange Curaçao
This orange-flavored liqueur adds citrus notes and complexity to the drink.
Pineapple Syrup
Pineapple syrup is a key ingredient that provides sweetness and a tropical flavor. If you can’t find it, you can make your own by simmering equal parts sugar and water until the sugar dissolves, then adding cubed pineapple and refrigerating overnight. Strain the syrup before use.
Bitters
Angostura bitters add depth and balance to the cocktail.
Tips for the Perfect East India No. 2
- Use fresh ingredients: Freshly squeezed pineapple juice and homemade pineapple syrup will elevate your cocktail.
- Chill your glass: This keeps the drink cold for longer.
- Shake well: Proper shaking chills the drink and properly mixes the ingredients.
- Adjust to taste: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or sourness of the cocktail to your liking.
A Modern Twist: East India Negroni
The East India Negroni offers a modern riff on the classic Negroni. In this variation, sherry often substitutes sweet vermouth, creating a rich and complex flavor. Some variations even use rum instead of gin.
Here’s a recipe for an East India Negroni:
- 1 oz Lustau East India Solera Sherry
- 1 oz London Dry Gin (or aged rum)
- 1 oz Campari
- Orange twist for garnish
Combine ingredients with ice, stir, and garnish with an orange twist.
The Enduring Appeal
The East India No. 2 cocktail has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s a well-balanced, flavorful drink that’s perfect for sipping on a warm evening or enjoying as an aperitif. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this cocktail is sure to transport you to a world of exotic flavors and old-world charm.
