Claridge’s Cocktail Book: A Guide to Iconic Drinks
Claridge’s, famous for its legendary cocktails, has made it possible to recreate its signature drinks at home through the Claridge’s Cocktail Book. The book features a curated selection of recipes that bring a touch of hotel luxury into your home.
From timeless classics to creative contemporary drinks, the book allows cocktail enthusiasts to explore the artistry behind Claridge’s famed concoctions. Whether you’re hosting a special event or enjoying a quiet evening, these recipes will elevate your at-home cocktail game.
Step-by-Step Guides for Signature Drinks
Here are a few signature drinks from the Claridge’s cocktail collection that you can easily recreate in your own kitchen:
The Iconic Claridge’s Martini
This luxurious take on the classic martini is a signature at the hotel. Here’s how to make it:
- Ingredients: 2 oz gin, 1/2 oz dry vermouth, lemon twist or olive (optional).
- Instructions: Stir gin and vermouth with ice in a mixing glass until chilled. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a twist of lemon or an olive. Serve and enjoy!
The Claridge’s Old Fashioned
A drink with elegance and simplicity, perfect for any classic cocktail lover:
- Ingredients: 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey, 1 sugar cube, 3 dashes Angostura bitters, orange peel.
- Instructions: Muddle the sugar and bitters in a rocks glass, then add ice and pour in the whiskey. Stir gently and garnish with a twist of orange peel. Enjoy the smooth, rich flavors.
The Bold Fumoir Negroni
This variation on the classic Negroni offers a refined and bold flavor profile:
- Ingredients: 1 oz gin, 1 oz Campari, 1 oz sweet vermouth, orange twist for garnish.
- Instructions: Stir the gin, Campari, and vermouth in a mixing glass with ice. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with the orange twist for a fragrant finish.
How to Source the Best Ingredients for Your Cocktails
Getting the ingredients just right is essential to recreating Claridge’s cocktails. Here are a few tips for sourcing premium ingredients for your drinks:
- Use High-Quality Spirits: Opt for premium brands of gin, whiskey, and vermouth to get that signature smoothness and depth of flavor.
- Fresh Ingredients: For garnishes like citrus or herbs, always use fresh ingredients to bring out the best flavor.
- Specialty Items: Some recipes, like the Fumoir Negroni, call for unique vermouths or bitters, which can be found at specialty liquor shops or online retailers.
By carefully selecting your ingredients, you’ll bring the luxury of Claridge’s directly into your home bar.
Pairing Cocktails with Occasions
The cocktails from Claridge’s are meant to elevate any occasion. Here’s how to choose the right cocktail for every event:
- The Claridge’s Martini: Ideal for sophisticated dinner parties or evening cocktails with friends. Its crisp and refreshing taste makes it perfect for special occasions.
- The Old Fashioned: A timeless drink for cozy evenings, intimate gatherings, or celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries.
- The Fumoir Negroni: Perfect for a pre-dinner drink or as an aperitif at cocktail receptions, where the bold flavors can stimulate the palate before a meal.
Pairing the right cocktail with the occasion will add an extra touch of elegance to your event.
