The Ward 8 Cocktail, originally hailing from Boston, Massachusetts, has a history as rich and vibrant as its flavor profile.
The Ward 8 Cocktail is believed to have originated in the late 19th or early 20th century, a period marked by political fervor and lively bar culture in Boston.
Its name, “Ward 8,” is a nod to the city’s political wards, and the cocktail is said to have been created to celebrate a political victory in one of Boston’s wards.
The beverage was invented in 1898 in Boston at the Locke-Ober bar. It is suspected that this cocktail was named after the city’s Ward 8, which helped in the election of Martin M.
While some attribute its invention to the Locke-Ober restaurant, others believe it emerged from the Elms Hotel. Despite the debate, the cocktail has firmly established itself as a Bostonian icon.
Ward 8 Cocktail Ingredients:
Before we embark on the journey of crafting the perfect Ward 8 Cocktail, let’s familiarize ourselves with the key ingredients that contribute to its distinctive flavor profile:
- Rye Whiskey (60 ml / 2 ounces): Rye whiskey serves as the robust and flavorful base, providing depth and character to the cocktail.
- Grenadine Syrup (22.5 ml / 0.75 ounces): Grenadine adds a sweet and fruity element to the mix, balancing the boldness of the rye whiskey.
- Fresh Lemon Juice (22.5 ml / 0.75 ounces): Freshly squeezed lemon juice contributes a bright and citrusy acidity, enhancing the overall freshness of the cocktail.
- Simple Syrup (15 ml / 0.5 ounces): Simple syrup provides a touch of sweetness, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Orange Bitters (2 dashes): Orange bitters add a layer of complexity and depth, complementing the citrusy notes from the lemon juice.
Ward 8 Cocktail Recipe
- Get Ready: Gather a shaker, jigger, strainer, and citrus reamer, along with your ingredients: rye whiskey, grenadine, lemon juice, simple syrup, and orange bitters.
- Glass Prep: Chill a coupe or rocks glass for serving.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In the shaker, mix 60 ml (2 ounces) rye whiskey, 22.5 ml (0.75 ounces) grenadine, 22.5 ml (0.75 ounces) fresh lemon juice, 15 ml (0.5 ounces) simple syrup, and 2 dashes orange bitters.
- Shake It Up: Add ice and shake with all your might for about 10-15 seconds.
- Serve: Strain the cocktail into your chilled glass.
Cheers to one of the best whisky cocktails.
The Ward 8 Cocktail – A Sweet Treat
The Ward Eight, a variation of the rye Whiskey Sour, swaps some lemon juice for orange and replaces simple syrup with grenadine. Historically, Rose’s grenadine, known for its artificial sweetness, dominated the market. Today, options abound, including grenadine made from real fruit juice. DIY enthusiasts can craft their own grenadine using freshly juiced pomegranates or store-bought juice.
Only two teaspoons of grenadine are needed for the Ward Eight, and adding vodka extends its shelf life. Alternatively, for quick consumption, it can be used in drinks like the Jack Rose, Tequila Sunrise, or Shirley Temple. However, avoid using a vodka-infused version for non-alcoholic drinks like the Shirley Temple.
Here’s to the skills of making the best cocktail recipes and the enduring allure of the Ward 8 Cocktail!
