Monkey Gland Cocktail recipe
You’ll find the Monkey Gland is a bright, early-20th-century gin cocktail with a mischievous name and a reputation tied to the Jazz Age. It’s commonly associated with the Paris bar scene, where American-style cocktails flourished in the years between the wars, and it sits in the same family as other gin-and-citrus drinks that use a small, aromatic accent to add intrigue. While its backstory is often repeated in broad strokes, what matters in the glass is its playful balance of fruit, botanicals, and a whisper of anise.
On the palate, gin’s crisp juniper backbone leads, then orange juice brings soft citrus sweetness and a rounded, juicy lift. Grenadine adds a gentle pomegranate-like sweetness and a blush of colour that deepens the fruitiness without turning it cloying. Just a couple of drops of absinthe cut through with a sharp, herbal anise note, making the orange taste brighter and the gin feel more perfumed.
Serve it when you want something lively and slightly offbeat—an easy win for gin drinkers who also like a touch of fruit. It suits aperitif moments, pre-dinner catch-ups, or any time you want a cocktail that feels classic-adjacent but still a little daring in a cocktail glass.
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Method
How to make a Monkey Gland
- Absinthe 2 drops, Gin 50ml, Orange juice 30ml, Grenadine 2 drops
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- Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice
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- Shake well for 10-15 seconds
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- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass
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- Garnish with an orange peel twist and serve
Power tips
Elevate the Monkey Gland with these master mixologist tips
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for a more vibrant and fresh flavor profile. It adds a level of brightness that store-bought juice often lacks.
- When adding absinthe, use an atomizer or spritz bottle to evenly disperse a fine mist over the drink. This balances the strong taste of absinthe without overpowering the other flavors.
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FAQ's
What is the origin of the Monkey Gland cocktail?
The Monkey Gland cocktail has a unique and interesting history that dates back to the 1920s Paris. It was created by Harry MacElhone, the owner of Harry's New York Bar in Paris. The name 'Monkey Gland' derives from the unusual medical practices of the time by Dr. Serge Voronoff, who transplanted monkey testicle tissue into humans aiming to increase longevity and virility. The cocktail's name reflects the era's fascination with such experimental medical procedures and has nothing to do with its ingredients.
Can I use any type of gin for the Monkey Gland cocktail?
Yes, you can use any type of gin to make a Monkey Gland cocktail. However, using a dry gin is traditionally recommended because its crisp and clean taste balances well with the sweetness of the orange juice and grenadine, while also allowing the unique flavor of the absinthe to shine through.
What is the best way to incorporate the absinthe into the Monkey Gland cocktail?
The best way to incorporate absinthe into the Monkey Gland cocktail is by using it to rinse the cocktail glass before adding the other ingredients. This involves adding a small amount of absinthe to the glass, swirling it around to coat the inside, and then discarding any excess. This method provides a subtle hint of absinthe flavor without overwhelming the other components of the drink.
What is the ideal garnish for a Monkey Gland cocktail?
The ideal garnish for a Monkey Gland cocktail is typically an orange peel twist or a cherry. The citrusy aroma of the orange peel enhances the orange juice's flavor in the cocktail, while the cherry adds a touch of color and sweetness, making the presentation more appealing and giving a nod to the classic garnishing styles of cocktails from the 1920s.
What types of occasions is the Monkey Gland cocktail most suitable for?
Given its unique history and distinctive name, the Monkey Gland cocktail is most suitable for themed parties or events that celebrate the Roaring Twenties or the prohibition era. It's also a great choice for cocktail enthusiasts looking to explore classic cocktails with quirky backstories or for gatherings where a conversation-starting cocktail is desired.
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