During the Prohibition era in America, a complex web of strict laws and regulations governed the sale, production, and transportation of alcohol. Despite this, people remained determined to indulge in their favorite drinks, sparking the emergence of clandestine bars and speakeasies. In response, bartenders had to think outside the box when crafting recipes, incorporating innovative ingredients and techniques to create mouthwatering concoctions that could evade detection.
These creative efforts gave rise to iconic cocktails that have since become synonymous with rebellion and indulgence in the face of adversity. Today, these Prohibition-era drinks continue to captivate bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike, offering a window into a time when sipping a drink was an act of defiance. In this article, we’ll delve into the history behind some of the most iconic cocktails from this era, including the Old Fashioned and Corpse Reviver.
We’ll explore the unique ingredients and techniques used to create these drinks, as well as provide guidance on how to recreate them at home. So sit back, grab a glass, and join us on a journey through time to the era of underground bars and hidden cocktails.
Scofflaw
The Scofflaw cocktail embodies the essence of Prohibition-era mixology, where clever bartenders crafted concoctions that transcended mere masking of inferior spirits. This timeless classic combines bourbon whiskey with dry vermouth, grenadine, angostura bitters, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Legend has it that Jock, a New York bartender, created this masterpiece, while the name ‘Scofflaw’ originated from a prohibitionist’s contest challenging people to come up with a term for a lawless drinker.
Though the original recipe specifies precise proportions, adventurous sippers can experiment to find their ideal blend. For those seeking a taste of history, the Scofflaw cocktail is an absolute must-try.
The Scofflaw
Step into the Prohibition era with ‘The Scofflaw’, a timeless cocktail that seamlessly blends complexity with balance. This understated mix of rye whiskey and just six ingredients makes it effortlessly easy to create, while its sophisticated flavors will transport you back in time. The name ‘Scofflaw’ itself holds a certain allure, conjuring up images of rebellious spirits who defied the law during Prohibition’s dry spell.
When served in a delicate coupe glass adorned with a vibrant lime garnish, ‘The Scofflaw’ is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. If you’re seeking a classic cocktail with a dash of intrigue, this captivating concoction is an absolute must-try.
Last Word Cocktail
The iconic Last Word Cocktail has remained a timeless favorite since its inception during the Prohibition era. This quintessential mix of gin, green Chartreuse, Luxardo maraschino cherry liqueur, and fresh lime juice yields a harmonious balance of flavors that is both revitalizing and satisfying to the palate. The subtle sweetness, tangy acidity, and pungent notes of this drink blend together seamlessly, resulting in a refreshing and complex taste experience.
Visually appealing with its pale green hue, the addition of lime wheels as garnish adds a vibrant splash of color, making it an absolute must-try for anyone seeking to explore a true classic cocktail from the past.
The Mary Pickford Cocktail
The Mary Pickford Cocktail has been delighting taste buds since Prohibition era. This iconic drink, named after Hollywood’s sweetheart, Mary Pickford, is an expert blend of white rum, grenadine, pineapple juice, and maraschino liquor. The harmonious balance of its ingredients makes it a treat for those who appreciate a touch of sweetness in their cocktails. To fully appreciate this elegant drink, serve it chilled in a martini or coupe glass and garnish with pineapple fronds and/or cherry.
If you’re seeking a signature cocktail that’s both impressive and cool, the Mary Pickford Cocktail is an excellent choice.
Mary Pickford Cocktail
Indulge in the nostalgic charm of the Mary Pickford Cocktail, a Prohibition-era drink that has stood the test of time. This delectable concoction combines the warmth of rum with the sweetness of pineapple juice, the subtle tartness of grenadine, and the unmistakable essence of Maraschino liqueur. The result is a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you craving more.
As the drink’s namesake, Mary Pickford, was known for her effervescent personality, this cocktail shares a similar sparkle with its vibrant rosy pink hue. Whether you’re looking to elevate a casual gathering or impress your guests at a special occasion, the Mary Pickford Cocktail is an excellent choice. Its unique blend of flavors and striking appearance make it a standout among classic cocktails, sure to delight even the most discerning palate.
Lavender Bee’s Knees
The Bee’s Knees just got a sophisticated makeover with The Lavender Bee’s Knees, a creative twist on the classic Prohibition-era cocktail. This refreshing drink combines the floral notes of honey-lavender simple syrup with the bright citrus flavors of gin, making it an ideal choice for a warm summer evening. The addition of lavender brings a modern and elevated touch to the traditional recipe, transforming it into a sophisticated choice for any social gathering.
As you sip this chilled cocktail, the sweet and tangy notes of honey and lemon harmonize beautifully with the herbal undertones of gin, creating a truly exceptional drinking experience. Whether you’re seeking a fancy spin on a classic gin cocktail or simply looking to impress your friends with a unique drink, The Lavender Bee’s Knees is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their cocktail game.
Bees Knees
The Bees Knees, a timeless classic from the Prohibition era, has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. This revitalizing gin cocktail combines honey syrup and citrus juice to create a delightful drink that’s ideally suited for warm weather. For those with a taste for gin, the subtle juniper notes will harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of the honey syrup.
With its light and refreshing profile, The Bees Knees is an excellent choice for anyone seeking to explore the rich legacy of Prohibition-era cocktails. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next gathering or unwind after a long day, this easy-to-make cocktail is sure to please.
Chai Bee’s Knees
The Martinez
The Martinez cocktail predates its more famous cousin, the Martini, and gained popularity during the Prohibition era. This timeless drink combines Old Tom gin’s rich, sweet flavor with the subtle sweetness of sweet vermouth, the tartness of maraschino liqueur, and a touch of bitters for balance. The result is a complex blend that perfectly harmonizes sweetness, tartness, and bitterness.
For those who appreciate classic cocktails or want to transport themselves back to the Roaring Twenties, the Martinez offers a refreshing alternative to the traditional Martini. Its unique flavor profile is largely due to the use of Old Tom gin, which differs significantly from London dry gin in terms of its sweeter and more full-bodied character.
The Bee’s Knees Cocktail
With its roots in the Prohibition era, The Bee’s Knees Cocktail has become a timeless classic that embodies the spirit of sophistication and elegance. This refreshing concoction combines the crispness of gin with the brightness of lemon juice and the warmth of honey, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The name itself is a testament to the phrase’s popularity during that era, when something was deemed ‘the bee’s knees’ for being exceptional and grand.
As you sip on this delightful cocktail on a warm summer day, you’ll experience its smooth and refreshing qualities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a classic and satisfying drink. With its rich history and enduring appeal, The Bee’s Knees Cocktail is definitely worth giving a try.
Aviation Cocktail
With its vibrant bluish-purple hue courtesy of Crème de Violette, the Aviation Cocktail is a timeless creation that seamlessly blends sweet and tart flavors with subtle floral notes. This Prohibition-era classic, revived in the 1990s, has gained popularity for its refreshing qualities and complexity. As a must-try cocktail for any enthusiast of vintage drinks, the Aviation Cocktail’s unique balance of flavors makes it an unforgettable experience.
Bee’s Knees
The Bee’s Knees cocktail has been delighting gin enthusiasts since Prohibition times. This timeless drink boasts a harmonious blend of gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup, which comes together in a sweet and tangy fusion. Real honey lends its rich flavor to the mix, while citrus notes provide a delightful balance. The name itself is a nod to a vintage slang term meaning ‘the best’ or ‘excellent’, making it all the more fitting for this exceptional cocktail.
While classic London dry gins are the traditional choice, modern gins can also bring their unique character to the table. In essence, the Bee’s Knees is a straightforward yet mouthwatering concoction that is bound to wow even the most discerning palates.
The Monkey Gland Gin Cocktail
In the heart of Paris at Harry’s New York Bar, a legendary drink was born – the Monkey Gland Gin Cocktail. This Prohibition Era concoction may raise eyebrows with its name, but trust us, it’s a game-changer. By combining gin, absinthe, and homemade grenadine made from pomegranate juice and sugar, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
The Monkey Gland Gin Cocktail is particularly appealing to those who adore oranges, as its prominent orange taste is sure to delight. For an added twist, some bartenders recommend substituting absinthe with Cointreau, which only amplifies the drink’s unique charm. If you’re a fan of classic and refreshing cocktails from the Prohibition Era, then this Monkey Gland Gin Cocktail is an absolute must-try.
