Improved Whiskey Cocktail – Original Recipe & History

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Improved Whiskey Cocktail

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Course: DrinksCuisine: American
Servings

1

servings
Calories

164

kcal
ABV

39%

Total time

3

minutes

The precursor to the old fashioned, the improved whiskey cocktail by Jerry Thomas is a true classic.

Ingredients

  • 2 dashes 2 dashes Cardamom Bitters

  • 1 dash 1 dash Absinthe

  • 2 dashes 2 dashes Maraschino Liqueur

  • 3 dashes 3 dashes Gum Syrup

  • 2 oz 60 ml Bourbon

Directions

  • Technique: Simple Stir
  • Combine all ingredients in the mixing glass.
  • Add ice to the mixing glass.
  • Stir the ingredients for 10 – 15 seconds. Try to avoid over-diluting the drink.
  • Strain into a glass with ice.
  • Garnish:
  • Orange peel.

Notes

Featured Video

If the name isn’t descriptive enough, then think of a Whiskey Cocktail but better. I’m just kidding; this is very different than the average Whiskey Cocktail. While the normal one is cardamom-y and has a spice to it, this one is orangey and licorice-flavored.

This first appeared in Jerry Thomas’s 1880 edition of his bartender’s guide. His improved cocktail versions never really enjoyed the fame the normal ones enjoyed, but they are delicious and worthy of being remembered.

Recipe Resources

Tools Used:

Download the free Vintage American Cocktail app.

See what you can make with what you have.

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