Star CocktailCocktail recipe
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The Star Cocktail is a classic drink with origins dating back to the 1870s, believed to have been created by a bartender at the legendary Manhattan Club in New York City. This historic venue, located at the north corner of 34th Street and 5th Avenue, was a hub for the cocktail renaissance of its time.
The cocktail also appeared later in Harry Craddock's 1930 'The Savoy Cocktail Book' as "Star Cocktail (No. 2)," with a simplified mix of equal parts Applejack or Calvados and Italian vermouth.
Today, the Star Cocktail remains a refined and timeless choice for those who appreciate a balance of sweetness and complexity, a testament to its enduring legacy in cocktail history.
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Tags
Lowball / rocks glass
Ingredients
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Cocktail Colin says:
The Star Cocktail is a delightful dance of Calvados and Italian vermouth, delivering a harmonious balance between fruity apple notes and the herbal, slightly bitter undertones of the vermouth, beautifully tamed by the subtle kiss of gomme syrup's sweetness. The Peychaud's bitters add just the right dash of spice, enhancing the complexity and ensuring each sip unfolds with vibrant layers. This classic cocktail offers a smooth ride through its nostalgic roots, whispering tales of its 19th-century origins while catering to modern palates that crave a sophisticated sweetness wrapped in warmth and depth.
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- Experiment with different styles of Calvados to explore a range of flavor profiles. Younger Calvados will add fresh, fruity notes, while an older Calvados will bring more complexity and depth with earthy, woody characteristics.
- Consider using a high-quality, age-statement vermouth. An older vermouth will lend a richer and more complex profile, balancing the apple notes of the Calvados beautifully.
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Your private tasting notes
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FAQ's
What is the history behind the Star Cocktail?
The Star Cocktail is a classic drink with roots going back to the 1870s. It is believed to have been created by a bartender at the legendary Manhattan Club in New York City, which was a prominent venue during the cocktail renaissance. Located at the north corner of 34th Street and 5th Avenue, the Manhattan Club was known for its innovation in the world of cocktails. The Star Cocktail was later mentioned in Harry Craddock's 1930 'The Savoy Cocktail Book' as 'Star Cocktail (No. 2),' featuring a simplified recipe with Applejack or Calvados and Italian vermouth. This cocktail continues to be enjoyed today, thanks to its harmonious blend of sweetness and complexity, showcasing its enduring appeal.
Is the Star Cocktail considered a classic cocktail?
Yes, the Star Cocktail is regarded as a classic cocktail. Its origins trace back to the cocktail renaissance of the 1870s, and it has maintained its popularity over the decades. The mention of the cocktail in 'The Savoy Cocktail Book' by Harry Craddock in 1930 further solidified its status in the world of classic cocktails. Despite being over a century old, it remains a favored choice among cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate its refined balance of flavors.
Can any ingredients be substituted in the Star Cocktail?
The primary ingredients in the Star Cocktail are Calvados, red vermouth, gomme syrup, and Peychaud's Aromatic Bitters. If you're looking for substitutions, you could replace Calvados with Applejack, as mentioned in historical versions of the recipe. For the vermouth, if red vermouth is not available, a sweet vermouth could be used as a substitute. However, substitutions may alter the overall taste and authenticity of the cocktail. If specific flavor profiles are what you're after, it's best to adhere to the original ingredients.
How is the Star Cocktail traditionally prepared?
The traditional preparation of the Star Cocktail involves a few key steps. It's a shaken drink, meaning you should combine the Calvados, red vermouth, gomme syrup, and Peychaud's Aromatic Bitters in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shaking helps properly mix the ingredients and chill the cocktail. Once shaken, the mixture is then strained into a chilled lowball or rocks glass without ice. The shaking technique is essential to achieve the right blend and temperature, differentiating it from drinks that are simply stirred.
When is the best time to serve a Star Cocktail?
The Star Cocktail is versatile enough to be served in various settings, owing to its sophisticated flavor profile. It is particularly well-suited for elegant gatherings, such as cocktail parties or dinner events where a classy and timeless drink is appreciated. The balance of sweetness and aromatic bitters makes it a satisfying choice as an aperitif, preceding a meal. Additionally, its historical significance can spark interesting conversations, making it a unique option for those who enjoy a touch of nostalgia and cocktail history in their gatherings.
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