The Affinity cocktail, a sophisticated and balanced drink, is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic mixed drinks. This Scotch-based cocktail, with its equal parts vermouth, offers a delightful experience for those who appreciate the complexities of spirits and the art of cocktail making.
A Glimpse into the Past
The Affinity’s origins can be traced back to the early 20th century, making its first appearance in The New York Sun on October 28, 1907. This was a time when cocktails were gaining popularity, and bartenders were experimenting with various combinations of spirits and modifiers. The Affinity quickly captured attention, lauded for its harmonious blend of flavors. An article in the Washington Post on October 29, 1907, further cemented its popularity, describing the drink’s effects as transforming the drinker’s perception of the world around them.
While its initial recipe seems to have included orange bitters and a spoonful of powdered sugar alongside the Scotch and vermouth, the version most known today was refined by Hugo Ensslin, a bartender at the Hotel Wallick, whose version was published in his 1917 book, “Recipes for Mixed Drinks”. Ensslin’s recipe removed the sugar and standardized the drink with equal measures of Scotch, sweet vermouth, dry vermouth and a dash of aromatic bitters.
Crafting the Perfect Affinity
The classic Affinity cocktail is celebrated for its simplicity. The key to a great Affinity lies in the quality and balance of its ingredients.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic cocktail:
- 1 oz (30 ml) Scotch Whisky: A blended Scotch provides a good balance, but single malt can also be used, depending on preference.
- 1 oz (30 ml) Sweet Vermouth: Also known as red vermouth, this contributes a rich, sweet, and herbal note.
- 1 oz (30 ml) Dry Vermouth: White or dry vermouth adds a layer of dryness and complexity.
- 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters: These aromatic bitters add depth and a touch of spice.
- Lemon Twist or Cherry: For garnish.
Preparation
The method for making an Affinity cocktail is straightforward:
- Chill Your Glass: Start by placing a coupe or cocktail glass in the freezer to chill, or fill it with ice while you prepare the drink.
- Combine Ingredients: Fill a mixing glass with ice. Add the Scotch whisky, sweet vermouth, dry vermouth, and Angostura bitters.
- Stir Well: Stir the mixture gently for about 20-30 seconds to ensure it’s well-chilled and properly diluted.
- Strain: Remove the ice from your chilled glass and strain the cocktail into it using a julep strainer.
- Garnish: Express the oils from a lemon twist over the drink and discard the peel or add a cherry.
Variations and Customization
While the classic recipe is beloved, there are several ways to tweak the Affinity to suit individual preferences.
- Whisky Choice: Experiment with different types of Scotch whisky. A smoky Islay single malt will give a different character than a smooth Highland blend.
- Vermouth Ratio: Adjust the ratio of sweet to dry vermouth to create a slightly sweeter or drier drink. Some variations use a 2:1 ratio of dry to sweet vermouth.
- Bitters: While Angostura is the most common, you can try using orange bitters or a combination of both for a different flavor profile.
- Off-Dry Vermouth: Some recipes and bartenders suggest using an off-dry vermouth for a slightly sweeter outcome that still retains the complexity of the classic cocktail.
The Affinity’s Enduring Appeal
The Affinity cocktail has stood the test of time, remaining a popular choice for cocktail enthusiasts. It is often compared to other classic cocktails like the Manhattan and Rob Roy, but the addition of both sweet and dry vermouth in equal parts creates a unique flavor profile that sets it apart. The interplay of the Scotch’s maltiness, the sweet vermouth’s herbal notes, and the dry vermouth’s crispness, all balanced with a dash of aromatic bitters, results in a drink that is both complex and harmonious.
The Affinity is a perfect example of how a few carefully chosen ingredients, when combined correctly, can create something extraordinary. It’s a drink that appeals to those who appreciate the nuances of spirits and the art of fine cocktail making. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail aficionado or new to the world of classic drinks, the Affinity is a must-try. Its rich history and balanced flavor make it a timeless choice for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
The Affinity is best enjoyed in a chilled coupe or cocktail glass. It’s an excellent choice as an aperitif or after-dinner drink, and it pairs well with a variety of foods, including smoked salmon and rich cheeses.
A Final Toast
The Affinity cocktail is more than just a mixed drink; it’s a piece of cocktail history. Its enduring appeal lies in its perfect balance of flavors and its ability to be both comforting and sophisticated. So, the next time you’re looking for a classic cocktail with a touch of complexity, try the Affinity. You won’t be disappointed.
