Claridge’s Cocktail Book: A Guide to Iconic Drinks
Known for its iconic cocktails, Claridge’s now shares its signature recipes through the Claridge’s Cocktail Book, allowing you to create luxury drinks at home that capture the hotel’s elegance and history.
From timeless classics to creative contemporary drinks, the book allows cocktail enthusiasts to explore the artistry behind Claridge’s famed concoctions. Whether you’re hosting a special event or enjoying a quiet evening, these recipes will elevate your at-home cocktail game.
Step-by-Step Guides for Signature Drinks
Try your hand at these signature Claridge’s cocktails, and bring the luxury of the hotel’s bar right to your own kitchen:
The Iconic Claridge’s Martini
A refined version of the classic martini, this drink is a staple at Claridge’s. Here's how to recreate it at home:
- Ingredients: 2 oz gin, 1/2 oz dry vermouth, lemon twist or olive (optional).
- Instructions: Stir gin and vermouth with ice in a mixing glass until chilled. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a twist of lemon or an olive. Serve and enjoy!
The Old Fashioned: Claridge’s Signature Twist
Perfect for those who appreciate the simplicity and elegance of a classic cocktail:
- Ingredients: 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey, 1 sugar cube, 3 dashes Angostura bitters, orange peel.
- Instructions: Muddle the sugar and bitters in a rocks glass, then add ice and pour in the whiskey. Stir gently and garnish with a twist of orange peel. Enjoy the smooth, rich flavors.
The Bold Fumoir Negroni
This variation on the classic Negroni offers a refined and bold flavor profile:
- Ingredients: 1 oz gin, 1 oz Campari, 1 oz sweet vermouth, orange twist for garnish.
- Instructions: Stir the gin, Campari, and vermouth in a mixing glass with ice. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with the orange twist for a fragrant finish.
Tips for Sourcing Ingredients
To truly capture the essence of Claridge’s cocktails, sourcing the right ingredients is key. Here are a few tips for ensuring your drinks are as close to the original as possible:
- Use High-Quality Spirits: Opt for premium brands of gin, whiskey, and vermouth to get that signature smoothness and depth of flavor.
- Fresh Ingredients: For garnishes like citrus or herbs, always use fresh ingredients to bring out the best flavor.
- Specialty Items: Some recipes, like the Fumoir Negroni, call for unique vermouths or bitters, which can be found at specialty liquor shops or online retailers.
By carefully selecting your ingredients, you’ll bring the luxury of Claridge’s directly into your home bar.
Perfect Cocktail Pairings for Every Occasion
The cocktails from Claridge’s are meant to elevate any occasion. Here’s how to choose the right cocktail for every event:
- The Claridge’s Martini: Ideal for sophisticated dinner parties or evening cocktails with friends. Its crisp and refreshing taste makes it perfect for special occasions.
- The Old Fashioned: A timeless drink for cozy evenings, intimate gatherings, or celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries.
- The Fumoir Negroni: Perfect for a pre-dinner drink or as an aperitif at cocktail receptions, where the bold flavors can stimulate the palate before a meal.
By pairing the right cocktail with the right occasion, you can ensure that every event feels special.
