Star CocktailCocktail recipe
Rating
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Lowball glass
Ingredients
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Cocktail Colin says:
The Star Cocktail elegantly marries the velvety richness of Calvados with the herbal sweetness of red vermouth, creating a satisfying balance that captures both warmth and sophistication. The subtle sweetness from the gomme syrup and the light spice from Peychaud's bitters round out the mix, making this a smooth and nuanced sip, perfect for those who appreciate a classic with a refined edge.
Method
How to make a Star Cocktail
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- Pre-chill a coupe glass
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- Prepare a skewered Luxardo Maraschino Cherry for garnish
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- Stir all ingredients with ice, then fine strain into the chilled glass
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- Garnish with the skewered cherry and serve
Power tips
Elevate the Star Cocktail with these master mixologist tips
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Find out more- Use a premium Calvados aged for at least six years to add a deeper, more sophisticated apple flavor to the Star Cocktail. The aging process enhances the Calvados with rich, complex aromas that pair beautifully with the vermouth.
- Experiment with different types of red vermouth to find the perfect match for your palette. Carpano Antica Formula or Punt e Mes can add layers of spice and bitterness that elevate the cocktail's flavor profile.
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Your private tasting notes
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FAQ's
What is the historical background of the Star Cocktail?
The Star Cocktail is a classic drink with roots tracing back to the 1870s. It is believed to have been crafted by a bartender at the legendary Manhattan Club in New York City, located at the north corner of 34th Street and 5th Avenue. This venue was a pivotal location during the cocktail renaissance of its time, serving as a hub for innovative cocktail creations. The recipe later appeared in Harry Craddock's seminal 1930 publication, 'The Savoy Cocktail Book,' as 'Star Cocktail (No. 2),' which simplified the drink to equal parts of Applejack or Calvados and Italian vermouth. Today, the Star Cocktail is cherished by those who value its balance of sweetness and complexity, marking its place as a refined choice in the landscape of classic cocktails.
What is the correct way to prepare a Star Cocktail?
The Star Cocktail is best prepared by shaking the ingredients with ice to achieve a cold and refreshing result. To make the cocktail, you'll shake 45 ml each of Calvados and red vermouth, along with 2.5 ml of gomme syrup and 3 dashes of Peychaud's Aromatic Bitters, in an ice-filled shaker. It's important to shake rather than stir, as this technique chills the drink thoroughly and blends the syrup effectively with the other ingredients. Once shaken, strain the mixture into a lowball glass and serve it immediately. This technique ensures that the cocktail is well-mixed and perfectly chilled, making it an ideal sipper for those who appreciate classic, expertly crafted cocktails.
Are there substitutions available for ingredients in the Star Cocktail?
Yes, there can be substitutions for some of the ingredients in the Star Cocktail, although altering the components may impact the traditional taste and balance. Calvados, a type of apple brandy, is the star ingredient, but it can be replaced with Applejack if unavailable, as mentioned in some variations of the historical recipe. For red vermouth, if Italian vermouth isn't accessible, a similar sweet vermouth could be used. Gomme syrup, noted for its smooth texture, can be replaced with simple syrup, but be aware it might slightly change the mouthfeel. However, Peychaud's Bitters have a unique flavor profile that's harder to substitute, so it's recommended to keep this original ingredient if possible to maintain the cocktail's distinctive taste.
What food pairings complement the Star Cocktail well?
The Star Cocktail, with its harmonious blend of apple flavors from the Calvados and the nuanced sweetness from the vermouth and gomme syrup, pairs wonderfully with certain types of cuisine and snacks. Consider pairing it with rich, savory dishes like roasted pork or grilled chicken, which will echo the cocktail's complexity and balance out its sweetness. Cheese boards featuring aged cheddar or gouda can also highlight the drink's sophisticated notes. For something lighter, a mixed greens salad with apple slices and a vinaigrette can complement the cocktail's apple-brandy base. These pairings can elevate the drinking experience, accentuating the cocktail's depth and enhancing both the drink and the food's flavors.
On what occasions is the Star Cocktail best enjoyed?
The Star Cocktail, with its classic allure and well-rounded flavors, is suitable for a range of occasions, particularly those that call for a touch of elegance and history. This cocktail is perfect for formal gatherings or cocktail parties where guests appreciate vintage recipes and historical significance. It's also an excellent choice for dinner parties as its balanced taste can function as both a pre-dinner aperitif or an after-dinner digestif. The classic and sophisticated nature of the Star Cocktail makes it a timeless option for celebrations like anniversaries and new year's eve toasts. Its enduring legacy as a staple of the cocktail world also lends itself well to themed parties centered on vintage or prohibition-era styles.
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