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.
The book offers a range of drinks, from timeless classics to innovative creations, perfect for any occasion. It’s designed to inspire home bartenders and elevate their cocktail skills.
Classic Claridge’s Cocktails You Can Make Yourself
These signature drinks from Claridge’s cocktail collection are simple to recreate, even in the comfort of your own home:
The 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 Old Fashioned: Claridge’s Signature Twist
Perfect for those who appreciate the simplicity and elegance of a classic cocktail:
- 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.
Tips for Sourcing Ingredients
To truly capture the essence of Claridge’s cocktails, sourcing the right ingredients is key. Here are a few tips for ensuring your drinks are as close to the original as possible:
- 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.
Selecting the right ingredients will allow you to recreate the luxurious taste of Claridge’s cocktails in your own home bar.
Perfect Cocktail Pairings for Every Occasion
Each Claridge’s cocktail is designed to enhance a special occasion. Here’s how to pair the drinks with different types of events:
- 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.
By pairing the right cocktail with the right occasion, you can ensure that every event feels special.
