HarvardCocktail recipe
Rating
Microbadges
Cocktail glass
Ingredients
Can you make this?
Add the ingredients you have at home to your My Bar and we'll show you what cocktails you can make. Start off by adding the ingredients you have for this cocktail using the plus icons.
Cocktail Colin says:
The Harvard cocktail elegantly marries the robust depth of Cognac with the intricately spiced and sweet vermouth, creating a sophisticated harmony on the palate. The addition of Angostura Bitters introduces a layer of complexity, while a splash of soda water lightens the profile, making this drink a timeless choice for those who appreciate rich, nuanced flavors.
Method
How to make a Harvard
-
- Begin by stirring the first four ingredients together with ice in a mixing glass until well combined
-
- Once mixed, strain the contents into a glass that has been chilled in advance to keep your cocktail cool
-
- Finally, elevate the flavor of your drink by adding a gentle splash of soda on top, giving it a refreshing finish
Power tips
Elevate the Harvard with these master mixologist tips
Upgrade to premium
And receive world class tips on how to raise your cocktails to the next level.
Find out more- Opt for a high-quality, well-aged Cognac. Aged Cognac can introduce richer, more complex flavors that elevate the drink significantly.
- Chill your mixing glass and the serving glass in the freezer before use to ensure your Harvard cocktail retains its cool temperature for longer.
- Subscribe to premium to receive even more power tips on this cocktail.
Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail
· Strain ·Your private tasting notes
Can you make this?
Add the ingredients you have at home to your My Bar and we'll show you what cocktails you can make. Start off by adding the ingredients you have for this cocktail using the plus icons.
Featured in
FAQ's
What is the history behind the Harvard cocktail?
The Harvard cocktail is named after Harvard University and is believed to have originated in the late 19th century. It is part of the family of cocktails that were named after Ivy League universities, which enjoyed popularity in the United States around that time. The cocktail reflects a sophistication and elegance that was associated with its namesake institution.
Can I substitute another type of vermouth for the red vermouth in a Harvard cocktail?
While red (sweet) vermouth is traditional in a Harvard cocktail, you can experiment with different kinds of vermouth. Dry vermouth will offer a sharper, less sweet profile, whereas a different sweet vermouth might introduce new flavors. The key is to maintain balance with the cognac and other ingredients.
What type of cognac is best suited for a Harvard cocktail?
A VS or VSOP cognac is typically best suited for a Harvard cocktail. These cognacs have a balanced flavor that mixes well with the sweetness of the vermouth and the complexity of the bitters. However, feel free to experiment with different ages to suit your taste preference.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Harvard cocktail?
Yes, a non-alcoholic version of the Harvard cocktail can be made by substituting the cognac with a non-alcoholic spirit or apple juice for a fruity twist. For the red vermouth, use a non-alcoholic sweet vermouth substitute. Adjust the amounts of bitters and syrup accordingly to balance the flavors.
How does the addition of soda water affect the Harvard cocktail?
The addition of soda water to the Harvard cocktail lightly dilutes the drink, adding a slight effervescence that makes the cocktail more refreshing. It balances the sweetness of the syrup and vermouth, and the strength of the cognac, making the cocktail more palatable and enhancing its flavors.
Upgrade your mixology
Become a member for free taking your cocktail making skills up to level 11. Or become a premium member to rise to cocktail greatness.
- Save your bar forever
- Access to our Cocktail Creator, allowing you to create your own wonderful concoctions.
- Create personalised cocktail menus for all your events, bars or parties
- Save cocktails to personalised 'Tried' and 'Want to try' lists
- Create and record tasting notes on cocktails
- Create lists of cocktails to share with friends and family
- A personalised MyBar URL, allowing you to share everything you can make with friends
- And much more ... (what to buy next, measurement choices, search personalisation...)
The Ultimate Christmas Cocktail Hub
The ultimate destination for all things Christmas and Cocktails. Crate your own Christmas cocktail, cocktail advent calendars, a host of Christmas themed cocktails and more.
Filter by Christmas cocktails that contain a certain ingredient, or just browse them all. The go-to location this Christmas.
Let's goYou might also like
Sidecar
The Sidecar is a classic cocktail steeped in history, believed to have been invented around the end of World War...
East India No.2
The East India No.2 cocktail is a delectable blend of flavors that's perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated and...
Port Flip
The Port Flip is a classic cocktail that dates back to the 19th century, embodying the rich and smooth textures...
Scorpion
The Scorpion cocktail is a tantalizing blend that creates a harmonious balance between the sweet and citrus notes, making it...
Create a cocktail
Choose a theme and some ingredients, give us some description and we'll create an amazing cocktail for you.
Register as a Premium Make Me a Cocktail community member and get access to an even more powerful creator.
Start creatingBuild your bar
Tell us what you have at home and we’ll find a delicious cocktail for you to make right now.
Register as a Make Me a Cocktail community member and we’ll save your ingredients list so you can come back to it at any time.
Create My Bar
Comments
No comments yet…
You need to be a user with a verified email to comment on cocktails. Login / register