She Strengthens

The Forgotten Favorite: Uncovering the Bronx Cocktail

In the world of craft cocktails, few drinks have a rich history like the Bronx. This classic gin-based concoction has been delighting palates since the 1930s, yet it remains relatively unknown to modern bartenders. Let’s uncover the fascinating story behind this forgotten favorite.

A Taste of Tradition

The Bronx Cocktail is a masterful blend of sweet and dry vermouth, enlivened by a splash of fresh orange juice. Its origins date back to New York’s iconic Brass Rail in the Waldorf, where bartender Johnny Solon perfected the recipe. Interestingly, the drink is named after the Bronx Zoo, not the notorious New York City borough.

A Legend Born

One fateful day, Solon visited the zoo and was struck by the unusual creatures on display. He drew parallels between these exotic beasts and the bizarre sights that often appeared after a few too many drinks. Thus, the Bronx Cocktail was born, a nod to the strange and wonderful.

Brooklyn’s Response

Not to be outdone, Brooklyn responded with its own signature cocktail. While the Bronx has largely fallen out of favor, skilled bartenders continue to pay homage to this timeless classic.

A Drink for the Ages

The beauty of the Bronx lies in its simplicity. With just four ingredients – gin, dry vermouth, sweet vermouth, and orange juice – this cocktail can be easily crafted at home. On a rainy day, why not indulge in a Dry Bronx? Some bartenders prefer to omit the orange juice, but we recommend retaining it for a burst of citrus flavor and a nod to tradition.

Tips and Variations

To avoid the “strange beasts” that Solon referred to, pace yourself and limit your intake to three drinks. For a Sweet Bronx or Dry Bronx, use only one type of vermouth. If you substitute the vermouth with a dash of bitters, you’ll create an entirely new cocktail, the Abbey.

Recipe

Yield: 1 drink
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: Under 5 minutes
Active Time: Under 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces gin
• 1/2 ounce dry vermouth
• 1/2 ounce sweet vermouth
• 1 ounce fresh orange juice

Instructions:

Shake all ingredients well with ice, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Enjoy your taste of history!