In the realm of yummy cocktails, the Rattlesnake stands as a venomous elixir that has entranced the palates of cocktail enthusiasts for generations.
With its intriguing blend of ingredients and timeless appeal, the Rattlesnake cocktail is a drink that deserves its place in the spotlight.
We will take a look at the history, ingredients, and a step-by-step recipe to make the Rattlesnake cocktail.
A Glimpse into History :
A twist on the classic Whisky Sour, the Rattlesnake cocktail is featured in Harry Craddock’s iconic 1930 masterpiece, The Savoy Cocktail Book. Craddock described it with a dose of humor, stating it’s named “Rattlesnake” because it purportedly has the power to cure a rattlesnake bite, kill rattlesnakes, or cause one to hallucinate seeing them.
Unlike Craddock’s original formulation, which omitted sweeteners, we’ve found that adding a touch of sweetness enhances the cocktail’s balance, and our recipe reflects this adjustment.
Ingredients That Pack a Bite:
To embark on your Rattlesnake cocktail journey, gather the following ingredients:
- 60 ml (2 ounces) of rye whisky
- 15 ml (1/2 ounce) of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 15 ml (1/2 ounce) of simple syrup (here’s how to make simple syrup)
- 7.5 ml (1/4 ounce) of absinthe
- 1 fresh egg white (here’s how to seperate an egg white)
- Lemon twist or maraschino cherry, for garnish (optional)
The Rattlesnake Cocktail Recipe:
Now, let’s unravel the secrets behind the Rattlesnake cocktail recipe:
Step 1: Prepare Shaker and Glass: Begin by chilling a coupe glass in the freezer or by filling it with ice to chill while you prepare the cocktail. Additionally, fill your cocktail shaker with ice to ensure it’s properly chilled.
Step 2: Add Rye Whisky: Measure 60 ml (2 ounces) of rye whisky using a jigger and add it to the cocktail shaker. Rye whisky, known for its robust and spicy character, serves as the backbone of the Rattlesnake.
Step 3: Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze 15 ml (1/2 ounce) of fresh lemon juice and pour it into the shaker. The bright acidity of lemon juice adds a refreshing twist to the cocktail.
Step 4: Sweeten with Simple Syrup: Measure 15 ml (1/2 ounce) of simple syrup and add it to the mix. Simple syrup balances the flavors, providing a touch of sweetness to complement the whisky and lemon.
Step 5: Add the Absinthe: Pour 7.5 ml (1/4 ounce) of absinthe into the shaker. Absinthe, with its anise flavor and herbal notes, adds complexity and intrigue to the Rattlesnake.
Step 6: Shake With All You Got: Crack a fresh egg and carefully separate the egg white into the shaker. Discard the yolk or save it for another culinary endeavor. Shake the cocktail vigorously without ice, known as a “dry shake,” to emulsify the egg white.
Step 7: Add Ice and Shake Again: Open the shaker and add ice to the mixture. Shake the cocktail once more, this time with ice, to chill and dilute the drink slightly.
Step 8: Strain into Your Glass: Discard the ice from your chilled coupe glass and strain the Rattlesnake cocktail into it. The double strain method, using both a cocktail strainer and a fine-mesh strainer, helps create a silky-smooth texture.
Step 9: Garnish and Enjoy: For a finishing touch, garnish your Rattlesnake cocktail with a lemon twist or a maraschino cherry. The garnish not only adds visual appeal but also complements the drink’s flavors.
The Rattlesnake Cocktail
The Rattlesnake cocktail is a testament to the artistry of mixology, with its diverse flavors and intriguing combination of ingredients.
Made to perfection, it offers a yummy blend of whisky, citrus, and herbal notes, making it a classic cocktail that continues to captivate discerning palates.
Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a curious novice, the Rattlesnake is a venomous elixir that promises a memorable journey of taste and tradition.
Cheers to the timeless allure of the Rattlesnake cocktail!
Check out some more of the best whisky cocktail recipes.
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