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.
Recreate Claridge’s Signature Cocktails at Home
Here are a few signature drinks from the Claridge’s cocktail collection that you can easily recreate in your own kitchen:
The Iconic Claridge’s Martini
Claridge’s puts its own twist on the traditional martini with this luxurious recipe. Here’s how to make your own:
- 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
A drink with elegance and simplicity, perfect for any classic cocktail lover:
- 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.
Claridge’s Fumoir Negroni
For those who appreciate bold flavors, this Fumoir Negroni adds a sophisticated twist to the classic cocktail:
- 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.
Ingredient Tips for Recreating Claridge’s Cocktails
Getting the ingredients just right is essential to recreating Claridge’s cocktails. Here are a few tips for sourcing premium ingredients for your drinks:
- 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.
Pairing Cocktails with Occasions
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.
Pairing the right cocktail with the occasion will add an extra touch of elegance to your event.
