The Brooklyn cocktail, a sophisticated pre-Prohibition drink, is a notable member of the family of cocktails named after New York City’s boroughs. Often overshadowed by its more famous cousins, the Manhattan and the Bronx, the Brooklyn has experienced a revival in recent years, captivating cocktail enthusiasts with its complex flavors and intriguing history. This classic cocktail offers a unique twist on the traditional Manhattan, showcasing the distinct character of its namesake borough.
A Borough in a Glass: The Brooklyn’s Composition
The Brooklyn cocktail is built upon a foundation of rye whiskey, providing a spicy and robust backbone. Unlike the Manhattan, which uses sweet vermouth, the Brooklyn employs dry vermouth, contributing a drier and more herbaceous profile. The addition of maraschino liqueur introduces a touch of sweetness and a unique cherry note, while the inclusion of Amer Picon, a bittersweet French aperitif, provides a complex herbal and citrusy undertone.
The Classic Recipe
The standard recipe for a Brooklyn cocktail is as follows:
- 2 ounces rye whiskey
- 1 ounce dry vermouth
- 1/4 ounce maraschino liqueur
- 1/4 ounce Amer Picon (or a substitute)
- Garnish: Maraschino cherry or lemon twist
Preparation
To prepare the cocktail:
- Combine all the liquid ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir well until thoroughly chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry or a lemon twist.
A History Steeped in New York City
The Brooklyn cocktail’s origins trace back to the early 20th century. It first appeared in print in 1908 in Jacob “Jack” Grohusko’s Jack’s Manual. The cocktail is believed to have emerged alongside other borough-named cocktails, such as the Manhattan, the Bronx, the Queens, and the Staten Island Ferry. Some accounts suggest that the cocktail was invented by actor and playwright Maurice Hegeman in 1910 at the Schmidt Cafe, near the Brooklyn side of the Brooklyn Bridge, although his version was significantly different, containing hard cider, absinthe, and ginger ale.
A Fall from Favor and a Resurgence
Despite its early presence, the Brooklyn cocktail fell into obscurity after the end of Prohibition. The use of Amer Picon, a French aperitif that is not readily available in the U.S., likely contributed to its decline. However, in the 1990s, the cocktail experienced a resurgence as bartenders began exploring and reviving classic cocktail recipes. This revival led to a renewed interest in the Brooklyn, solidifying its place as a noteworthy classic.
The Elusive Amer Picon: Finding Acceptable Substitutes
The original Brooklyn recipe calls for Amer Picon, a bittersweet orange liqueur with a distinct flavor. However, due to its limited availability in the United States, many bartenders have sought acceptable alternatives.
Recommended Substitutes
If you cannot source Amer Picon, consider the following substitutes:
- Bigallet China-China Amer: This French liqueur is often cited as the closest readily available substitute. It provides a similar bittersweet orange flavor profile.
- Cio Ciaro: This Italian amaro is another option, offering comparable complexity.
- Angostura Bitters: In a pinch, a few dashes of Angostura bitters can add a touch of bitterness and complexity, although it does not fully replicate the flavor of Amer Picon.
- Orange Bitters: A more generous dash of orange bitters may be used as well.
Variations and Riffs on a Classic
The Brooklyn cocktail’s resurgence has led to numerous variations and riffs, often named after specific neighborhoods within the borough, showcasing the creative experimentation of bartenders. This includes the Red Hook and Greenpoint cocktails.
The Perfect Brooklyn
A variation of the Brooklyn, the Perfect Brooklyn, uses both dry and sweet vermouth. This variation softens the dryness of the original recipe.
Exploring Different Spirits and Flavors
While the classic recipe calls for rye whiskey, some bartenders have experimented with other spirits, such as bourbon or Canadian whisky. You can adjust the recipe to your taste. Some variations also use different types of bitters or liqueurs to create unique flavor profiles.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic Reimagined
The Brooklyn cocktail is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic cocktails. Its complex flavor profile, intriguing history, and ability to inspire variations make it a drink worth exploring. Whether you are a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of mixed drinks, the Brooklyn is a must-try, offering a sophisticated taste of New York City history and a delicious alternative to the traditional Manhattan. Its revival has secured its spot as a beloved classic, demonstrating how a forgotten drink can regain popularity and continue to evolve with time.
