Jerry Thomas’ “Bar-Tenders Guide” printed the recipe for the first time during the 1880s claiming it was developed in Saratoga Springs, New York, the day’s equivalent to today’s Las Vegas in terms of vacations and gambling. The classic recipe for a Saratoga cocktail can be found here. This drink has everything that’s great about the Manhattan and metropolitan recipes in one cocktail creating a delicious combination that whiskey and brandy drinkers will both appreciate.
To make it, add equal parts brandy, whiskey, and sweet vermouth to a highball glass, and add a couple of dashes of bitters to finish off the mix. Some people prefer it with a bold bourbon though most prefer rye whiskey. Drinkers who are unfamiliar with this cocktail may find it difficult to get into it initially, but once a certain combination of brandy and whiskey is used, they become fans. Because of this, Saratogas are rather finicky, so try a few different combinations to find the one that works best for you. It will also create a better tasting cocktail from beginning to end if the glass is well-chilled.
Tips
- The cocktail can be shaken instead of stirred if you prefer. It is likely that the additional dilution from the agitation will make the flavors blend even better.
- An old-fashioned glass is the best vessel for this cocktail when served on the rocks.
- Another method often used with the Manhattan, and works particularly well with slow melting ice cubes or ice balls.
