Old PalCocktail recipe
Rating
The Old Pal first appeared in the 1922 edition of Harry Craddock's "The Savoy Cocktail Book", a drinks compendium compiled by the head barkeeper of The Savoy Bar in New York.
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Cocktail Colin says:
The Old Pal is a robust concoction where the peppery bite of rye whiskey plays splendidly against the bitter Campari, with white vermouth smoothing over the potent edges. This drink offers a striking balance between bitterness and spice, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a cocktail with a bold, assertive character yet a graceful finish.
Method
How to make a Old Pal
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- Add all the ingredients into a mixing glass with ice
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- Stir until well combined then strain into a chilled cocktail glass
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- Garnish with an orange slice and serve
Power tips
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Find out more- Store your rye whiskey in the freezer for a few hours before making the cocktail; this will slightly thicken the spirit and make the drink smoother.
- Express the oils from an orange peel over the top of the drink before garnishing for an added layer of aroma and flavor.
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Your private tasting notes
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FAQ's
What is the origin of the Old Pal cocktail?
The Old Pal is a classic cocktail that is believed to have originated in Paris in the early 1920s. It was first mentioned in Harry MacElhone's 1922 book, 'Harry's ABC of Mixing Cocktails.' Harry MacElhone, the owner of Harry's New York Bar in Paris, credited the creation of the drink to a friend and fellow expatriate, William 'Sparrow' Robertson, a sports editor for the New York Herald in Paris. The Old Pal is a variation of the Negroni and the Boulevardier, substituting rye whiskey for gin or bourbon and using dry vermouth instead of sweet, making it drier and spicier than its counterparts.
Can I substitute bourbon for rye whiskey in an Old Pal?
Yes, you can substitute bourbon for rye whiskey in an Old Pal, although it will slightly alter the original flavor profile. Bourbon tends to be sweeter and less spicy than rye whiskey, which may result in a smoother, sweeter cocktail. This variation is actually closer to another related cocktail, the Boulevardier, which traditionally uses bourbon. However, using bourbon is a good way to experiment with different flavors and make the drink more to your personal preference.
What is the best way to serve an Old Pal?
The best way to serve an Old Pal is chilled, but not diluted. It should be stirred with ice and then strained into a cold cocktail glass. Garnishing is not traditional for an Old Pal, aiming to maintain its clean, crisp profile. However, you might consider a lemon twist or a thin orange peel for a subtle addition of citrus aroma. Serving it in a cocktail glass enhances its elegance and allows the drinker to enjoy its complex flavors fully.
What foods pair well with an Old Pal?
The Old Pal, with its bitter, spicy, and slightly herbal taste profile, pairs well with rich, savory dishes. Foods that have a fatty component, like steak or a rich cheese platter, can complement the cocktail’s dryness and spiciness. Additionally, charcuterie, such as salami or prosciutto, can balance the bitterness of the Campari. For a lighter option, consider pairing it with grilled vegetables or seafood dishes, as the dryness of the vermouth can complement these flavors beautifully.
How does the alcohol content in an Old Pal compare to other classic cocktails?
With an alcohol content of 28%, the Old Pal is on the stronger side compared to many classic cocktails. For comparison, a classic Martini might have an alcohol content around 30-32%, depending on the gin and vermouth used, making it slightly stronger. A Manhattan, another whiskey-based cocktail similar to the Old Pal, typically has an alcohol content around 30% as well. Meanwhile, lighter cocktails such as the Mojito or Aperol Spritz have alcohol contents closer to 10-15%, making the Old Pal a stronger choice for those who prefer a drink with a bit more kick.
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