The Brooklyn cocktail is a sophisticated and complex drink that has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity among cocktail enthusiasts. This pre-Prohibition classic, named after the New York City borough, offers a unique twist on the more well-known Manhattan, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a stirred, spirit-forward experience.
Origins and History
The Brooklyn cocktail first appeared in print in 1908, in Jacob “Jack” Grohusko’s Jack’s Manual. Its creation is sometimes attributed to a theater actor and playwright, Maurice Hegeman, who was a regular at the Schmidt Cafe in Brooklyn around 1910. However, Hegeman’s version, consisting of hard cider, absinthe, and ginger ale, is quite different from the modern Brooklyn we know.
The drink shares a family connection with other cocktails named after New York City boroughs, including the Manhattan, Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island Ferry, and it is often viewed as a variation of the Manhattan. It fell into relative obscurity after Prohibition, but saw a revival in the 1990s and 2000s, coinciding with the renewed interest in classic cocktails and rye whiskey.
The Classic Recipe
The Brooklyn cocktail is typically made with four key ingredients:
- Rye Whiskey: The base spirit, rye whiskey provides a spicy and robust character that distinguishes it from a bourbon-based Manhattan.
- Dry Vermouth: This adds a dry, herbaceous note that contrasts with the sweeter vermouth used in a Manhattan.
- Maraschino Liqueur: This clear, cherry-flavored liqueur introduces a subtle sweetness and a hint of almond.
- Amer Picon: A bittersweet French aperitif with a distinctive orange flavor. This is a traditional component, but often hard to find and may be substituted.
The Challenge of Amer Picon
One of the key challenges in making a truly authentic Brooklyn cocktail is the difficulty of sourcing Amer Picon. This French aperitif, with its unique bittersweet orange flavor, is not readily available in the United States due to import restrictions and ingredient limitations. Because of this, bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts have explored several substitutes over time.
Substitutes for Amer Picon
If you can’t find Amer Picon, here are some recommended substitutes:
- Bigallet China-China Amer: This is a close substitute with a similar bittersweet orange profile.
- CioCiaro or Ramazzotti: These amari offer a complex, bittersweet flavor that can approximate the role of Amer Picon.
- Angostura Bitters: In a pinch, a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters can provide a similar depth of bitterness.
- Orange Bitters: Some recipes also suggest orange bitters as another alternative.
How to Make the Perfect Brooklyn Cocktail
Here’s a recipe for crafting a perfect Brooklyn cocktail:
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces rye whiskey
- 1 ounce dry vermouth
- ¼ ounce maraschino liqueur
- ¼ ounce Amer Picon (or a suitable substitute, such as Bigallet China-China Amer or 2 dashes of Angostura bitters)
- Lemon twist or Luxardo cherry for garnish
Instructions:
- Chill your glass: Place a coupe or martini glass in the freezer to chill.
- Combine ingredients: In a mixing glass filled with ice, add the rye whiskey, dry vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and Amer Picon (or substitute).
- Stir: Stir the mixture gently for 20-30 seconds until well-chilled.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into the chilled glass.
- Garnish: Express the oils of a lemon twist over the drink and use it as a garnish, or use a Luxardo cherry.
Variations on the Brooklyn
Over the years, numerous variations of the Brooklyn cocktail have emerged. Some of these variations are named after neighborhoods in Brooklyn, further solidifying the cocktail’s connection to the borough. Here are a few examples of Brooklyn variations:
The Greenpoint
- A modern variation that swaps maraschino liqueur for Yellow Chartreuse, resulting in a more herbal and complex drink.
The Red Hook
- This variation uses Punt e Mes in place of dry vermouth, giving the cocktail a richer, more bitter profile.
The Bushwick
- Uses Cynar, an artichoke-based amaro, instead of Amer Picon.
The Bensonhurst
- Features a combination of dry vermouth and a small amount of Amaro Averna.
“Perfect” Brooklyn
- Some prefer a “perfect” Brooklyn, which uses both sweet and dry vermouth in the recipe.
These variations demonstrate the Brooklyn’s adaptability and the creativity it inspires, solidifying its place in cocktail history.
Why the Brooklyn Cocktail Endures
The enduring appeal of the Brooklyn cocktail lies in its balanced combination of flavors: the spiciness of rye, the dryness of vermouth, the subtle sweetness of maraschino, and the unique bitterness of Amer Picon. It is a spirit-forward drink that is both complex and approachable. The search for the perfect substitute for Amer Picon has also contributed to the cocktail’s mystique and appeal to adventurous cocktail enthusiasts. Its connection to a specific place, Brooklyn, further enhances its charm and makes it a unique addition to any cocktail menu.
Whether you are a seasoned cocktail aficionado or just beginning your exploration of classic drinks, the Brooklyn cocktail offers a satisfying journey into the world of pre-Prohibition mixology.
