Copenhagen 1939Cocktail recipe
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Copenhagen 1939 is a gin-forward, pre-dinner style cocktail that sits in the same family as spirit-and-vermouth classics, but with a cherry-tinged twist. Beyond its evocative name, you’ll find it reads like a dressed-up, European-leaning aperitif: strong, aromatic, and built around balance rather than fruitiness. If there’s a specific origin story behind it, it isn’t widely established, so the appeal here is in the vintage structure and the way the ingredients nod to old-school bar flavors.
Expect the gin’s botanicals to lead, with red vermouth bringing a rounded, winey sweetness and gentle bitterness. Cherry liqueur deepens that mid-palate with rich, dark-fruit sweetness, while a dash of lemon juice lifts the whole drink so it doesn’t feel heavy. A touch of sugar/simple syrup smooths any sharp edges, and aromatic bitters stitch everything together with a dry, spiced finish.
Serve it in a cocktail glass when you want something elegant and contemplative—ideal before dinner or as a slow sipper early in the evening. You’ll enjoy it if you like Martinez- or Manhattan-adjacent profiles, especially when you’re in the mood for cherry notes without a full-on dessert drink.
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Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
Gin and red vermouth lead with a dry, herbal backbone, while cherry liqueur adds a dark fruit gloss; a dash of lemon juice brightens the mid-palate, simple syrup rounds the edges, and aromatic bitters stitch in spice and depth. It works because the vermouth’s botanicals and bitters rein in the cherry sweetness as citrus lifts the gin, making it ideal for fans of bracing, spirit-forward aperitifs with a subtle fruit accent.
Method
How to make a Copenhagen 1939
- Gin 30ml, Cherry liqueur 30ml, Red vermouth 30ml, Lemon juice Dash, Sugar / simple syrup Dash, Aromatic bitters Dash
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- Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice
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- Shake well for 10 seconds
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- Strain into chilled cocktail glass
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- Garnish with an orange peel and serve
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FAQ's
How do you properly shake the ingredients for the Copenhagen 1939 cocktail?
To properly shake the Copenhagen 1939 cocktail, fill a shaker with ice cubes and add the prescribed amounts of lemon juice, gin, sugar syrup, Angostura bitters, red vermouth, and cherry liqueur. Shake the mixture vigorously for about 10 to 15 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients thoroughly. Strain the cocktail into a chilled cocktail glass.
What is the best way to serve the Copenhagen 1939 to enhance its flavors?
The best way to serve the Copenhagen 1939 is in a chilled cocktail glass to maintain its cold temperature, emphasizing the crisp and complex flavors. Garnishing with a lemon twist or a cherry can add visual appeal and a slight aromatic enhancement to the drink.
How does the alcohol content of Copenhagen 1939 compare to a standard cocktail?
With an alcohol content of 23.67%, the Copenhagen 1939 falls within the average range for cocktails, which typically have an alcohol content between 20% to 30%. It is slightly stronger than a classic Martini but less potent than a Negroni.
Can I substitute another liqueur for cherry liqueur in the Copenhagen 1939?
Yes, you can substitute another fruit-flavored liqueur for cherry liqueur in the Copenhagen 1939 if cherry is not to your liking or unavailable. Consider using raspberry or orange liqueur as an alternative. Keep in mind that the substitute will alter the flavor profile of the cocktail.
What food pairs well with the Copenhagen 1939 cocktail?
The Copenhagen 1939, with its balance of sweetness and bitterness, pairs well with appetizers like cheese platters, especially those featuring aged cheeses, or savory canapés. For a main course, consider complementing it with grilled seafood or a rich, creamy pasta dish to balance its flavors.
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