November 26th 2024.
Thanksgiving is just around the corner and for those looking to add a little extra cheer to their holiday celebrations, a Thanksgiving cocktail is the perfect addition. The process is simple - from bottle to glass to hand. But let's be honest, no one wants to just pour straight liquor over ice and call it a day. That's where three-ingredient classics come in handy.
According to Kapri Robinson, a bartender in Washington, D.C., and the president of Chocolate City's Best, sticking to three ingredients makes for a well-balanced cocktail. It allows the spirits to shine without overwhelming the drink with too many flavors. And with plenty of options to choose from, whiskey is a clear winner for the fall season.
Robinson notes that the warmth of whiskey, with its wood influences, is what makes it so appealing during the cooler months. The vanilla, caramel, and baking spice notes that come from aging in wood barrels add a cozy touch to any cocktail. Some popular whiskey-based options include the Old Pal, which is a drier and spicier version of the Boulevardier, the Gold Rush made with bourbon, lemon and honey, and of course the timeless classic whiskey sour with bourbon, lemon, and sugar.
For scotch drinkers, the Rob Roy is a smokier take on the Manhattan, made with sweet vermouth and bitters. And for those looking to mix things up, try a "perfect" Manhattan by using equal parts sweet and dry vermouth. Another fun twist is to use an amaro instead of vermouth for a post-dinner digestive drink.
But don't limit yourself to just bourbon, scotch, and rye. Robinson suggests adding American single malt or Japanese whisky to the mix as well. The key is to use a whiskey that you personally enjoy.
If you want to get a head start on your Thanksgiving cocktail preparations, try batching a Boulevardier in advance. The longer the ingredients sit together, the smoother and silkier the drink will become.
Holidays can be hectic, so it's best to keep things simple and straightforward when it comes to your cocktail menu. And if you're feeling adventurous, try out these delicious recipes from Rebekah Peppler, a writer for The New York Times.
First up is her recipe for a "perfect" Manhattan, a classic drink that has stood the test of time. The key to making it perfect is to use equal parts sweet and dry vermouth. And for a little extra flavor, add in a cherry or a lemon twist as a garnish.
For those who prefer a lighter and brighter cocktail, the Presbyterian is a great option. Made with ginger ale, soda water, and your choice of whiskey, it's a refreshing drink that can be easily customized to your taste. And don't forget to add a squeeze of lemon or lime for a burst of freshness.
If you're looking for more food and drink inspiration, be sure to subscribe to our weekly newsletter, In The Know, to get the latest entertainment news delivered straight to your inbox. And as always, drink responsibly and enjoy your holiday celebrations!
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