The Aperol Spritz, a beloved and slightly bittersweet cocktail, has found its way into the hearts of happy hour enthusiasts worldwide. However, a simple twist of an ingredient gives rise to a refreshing Pacific Northwest-inspired drink: the Ranye West.
Named playfully after the famous rapper Kanye West, the Ranye West derives its moniker from Rainier Beer, a popular budget-friendly brew in the Pacific Northwest. This beer, known by various names like “Vitamin R” and “Ranye,” is reminiscent of the region’s crisp and bubbly prosecco but at a fraction of the cost.
Rainier Beer, a symbol of working-class culture, often accompanies shots of whiskey or tequila at dive bars. Bartender Jeff Steiner from Seattle crafted the Ranye West, substituting Rainier Beer for wine and club soda in the traditional Aperol Spritz. A splash of lemon juice reintroduces acidity, while a few dashes of Angostura bitters add depth.
History of the Ranye West Cocktail
The Ranye West cocktail gets its name from a clever play on words, combining the controversial rapper Kanye West with the nickname given to one of the Pacific Northwest’s most beloved cheap beers, Rainier Beer. Rainier Beer, often referred to as “Ranye” with a playful faux-French pronunciation, is known for its affordability and popularity among working-class communities in the region.
In the Pacific Northwest, Rainier Beer is a symbol of local beer culture and is sometimes enjoyed with a shot of whiskey or tequila after a long day’s work. Bartender Jeff Steiner from Seattle created the Ranye West cocktail, substituting Rainier Beer for the traditional prosecco used in an Aperol Spritz. This twist adds a regional flair to the classic Italian cocktail.
Ranye West Cocktail Ingredients
- 120 ml (4 ounces) Rainier beer or other domestic lager, chilled
- 30 ml (1 ounce) Aperol
- 7.5 ml (1/4 ounce) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Garnish: lemon twist
Ranye West Cocktail Recipe
- Prepare Your Glass: Take a wine glass and fill it with ice cubes. This will help keep your Ranye West cocktail perfectly chilled.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a mixing glass, add 120 ml (4 ounces) of chilled Rainier beer, 30 ml (1 ounce) of Aperol, 7.5 ml (1/4 ounce) of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
- Stir Gently: Using a bar spoon, stir the ingredients briefly and gently. This ensures that the flavors meld together harmoniously.
- Serve and Garnish: Strain the mixture into the prepared wine glass with ice. To enhance the presentation, garnish your Ranye West cocktail with a lemon twist.
Enjoy Your Ranye West Cocktail!
Enjoy your Ranye West cocktail—a delightful variation of the Aperol Spritz that celebrates the flavors and culture of the Pacific Northwest.
Feel free to opt for another domestic canned lager if you prefer. While it may not be a genuine Ranye West, it offers a delectable and budget-friendly alternative to the classic Aperol Spritz. Embrace locally brewed lagers to honor both the local beer culture and the craft brewery scene. Cheers to the Ranye West—a tribute to regional pride and creativity in mixology.
Whether you’re sipping it at a local dive bar or crafting it at home, the Ranye West is a testament to the creativity and regional pride in the world of cocktails. Cheers!
Check out some other delicious Aperol cocktail recipes.
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