The Old Pal Cocktail: From Prohibition To You

The Old Pal Cocktail, a classic cocktail recipe with a rich history.

The Old Pal Cocktail, a gem among classic cocktails, combines the boldness of rye whiskey with the herbal notes of vermouth and the bitter complexity of Campari. Before we delve into the recipe, let’s journey back in time to uncover the origins and inspiration that gave rise to the Old Pal Cocktail.

The Old Pal Cocktail finds its roots in the Prohibition era, a time when clandestine speakeasies and hidden bars became havens for cocktail experimentation. This classic drink emerged as a creation of the renowned bartender and writer Harry MacElhone, who made it during his time at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris.

First appearing in print in MacElhone’s 1922 “ABC of Mixing Cocktails,” the Old Pal gained popularity among the cosmopolitan crowd frequenting the Parisian cocktail scene. Its elegant simplicity and sophisticated flavor profile made it a favorite among those in the know.

The Old Pal Cocktail was originally conceived as a variation of the Boulevardier, substituting rye whiskey for bourbon. The shift in base spirit, from the sweetness of bourbon to the spiciness of rye, brought a new dimension to the cocktail, appealing to those with a penchant for more robust and assertive flavors.

The name “Old Pal” reflects the camaraderie and shared tastes among patrons of the time. It’s a nod to the friendships forged over the bar, where like-minded individuals would bond over their appreciation for well-made beverages.

Old Pal Cocktail Ingredients

1. Rye Whiskey (60 ml / 2 ounces): The backbone of the Old Pal, rye whiskey brings a robust and spicy character.
2. Dry Vermouth (30 ml / 1 ounce): Providing a counterbalance to the strength of the rye, dry vermouth contributes herbal and slightly floral notes.
3. Campari (30 ml / 1 ounce): The secret weapon in the Old Pal’s arsenal, Campari introduces a bittersweet profile with hints of orange and herbal nuances, adding depth to the cocktail. Check out other Campari cocktail recipes.

Old Pal Cocktail Recipe

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Ingredients

A mixing glass, a stirring spoon, a jigger for measuring, and a chilled coupe or rocks glass. Make sure your rye whiskey, dry vermouth, and Campari are readily available.

Step 2: Measure and Combine Ingredients

• In the mixing glass, measure 60 ml (2 ounces) of rye whiskey, 30 ml (1 ounce) of dry vermouth, and 30 ml (1 ounce) of Campari.

Step 3: Add Ice and Stir

• Add ice to the mixing glass and stir the ingredients gently but thoroughly for about 15-20 seconds. Stirring ensures proper dilution and the seamless integration of flavors without clouding the cocktail.

Step 4: Strain into a Glass

• Strain the mixture from the mixing glass into a chilled coupe or rocks glass. The chilled glass enhances the drinking experience by maintaining the optimal temperature of the cocktail.

Step 5: Express Orange Peel Over the Cocktail

• Take a fresh orange peel and express its oils over the cocktail by giving it a gentle twist. Drop the peel into the glass to add a citrusy aroma that complements the bittersweet notes of the Campari.

Step 6: Garnish (Optional)

• While not traditional, you can garnish the Old Pal with a brandied cherry or a lemon twist for an extra layer of visual appeal.

The Old Pal Cocktail – Savour An Old Friend

The traditional Old Pal cocktail recipe sticks to equal parts of each ingredient, mirroring the structure of the Negroni. Nevertheless, contemporary variations sometimes tweak the formula by upping the rye whiskey while dialing down the Campari and dry vermouth. This adjusted version typically follows a 2:1:1 ratio, resulting in a slightly more potent rendition of the original.

Experiment with both approaches to determine your preference, but rest assured that both renditions yield delightful, well-rounded cocktails that evoke the comforting embrace of an old friend. So, raise your glass and savor the possibility of discovering a steadfast companion for life.