At the beginning of the 20th century, German-born Hugo Ensslin was the head bartender at the Hotel Wallick in Times Square, then the cultural epicenter of New York City. His 1916 publication, “Recipes for Mixed Drinks,” offers a glimpse into pre-Prohibition New York bartending, showcasing a variety of sophisticated ingredients like Dubonnet, crème de menthe, and Bacardi.
The book is notable for featuring the first-known recipe for the Aviation cocktail, complete with crème de violette, but it also includes many other intriguing and often original drink recipes.
One such drink, reminiscent of a Manhattan in both its structure and appeal, allows for customization. It suggests substituting bourbon for a sweeter whiskey twist or oloroso sherry for amontillado for added richness.
Many people follow the original recipe with rye whiskey, complemented by a robust amontillado sherry such as Lustau’s Los Arcos or the slightly more delicate Hidalgo–La Gitana Amontillado Napoleon.
Up To Date Cocktail Ingredients
- Rye Whiskey (37.5 ml / 1 1/4 ounces): Rye whiskey, renowned for its bold and spicy profile, serves as the foundation of the Up To Date Cocktail.
- Amontillado Sherry (30 ml / 1 ounce): Amontillado sherry, or a dark sherry variant, adds a layer of complexity with its nutty and savory notes.
- Grand Marnier (7.5 ml / 1/4 ounce): Grand Marnier, an orange-flavored liqueur, imparts a touch of citrusy sweetness to the Up To Date Cocktail.
- Angostura Bitters (2 dashes): Angostura bitters, a staple in many classic cocktails, provide depth and complexity.
Up To Date Cocktail Recipe
- Tools & Ingredients: You’ll need a mixing glass, jigger, barspoon, strainer, rye whiskey, amontillado sherry, Grand Marnier, and Angostura bitters.
- Chill Your Glass: Ensure your serving glass is cold by placing it in the freezer or filling it with ice water.
- Combine Ingredients: Add 1 1/4 ounces of rye whiskey, 1 ounce of amontillado sherry, 1/4 ounce of Grand Marnier, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters into a mixing glass.
- Stir: Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir the mix for about 15-20 seconds to chill and dilute.
- Serve: Strain the cocktail into your chilled glass to ensure a smooth drink.
- Garnish: Optionally, add an orange twist for a burst of citrus aroma.
The Up To Date Cocktail – A Classic
The Up To Date Cocktail invites enthusiasts to partake in the timeless elegance of a careful blend of rye whiskey, amontillado sherry, Grand Marnier, and Angostura bitters. From its historical roots to its status as a classic beverage, this cocktail celebrates the creativity of bartenders from a bygone era.
As you make your Up To Date Cocktail, remember that the true essence lies in the taste and the joy of creating a great whisky cocktail.
