Bushwick CocktailCocktail recipe
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The Bushwick Cocktail emerged in 2009 from the creative mind of renowned bartender Phil Ward at his East Village establishment, Mayahuel, which operated in New York City until 2017. Named after Brooklyn's vibrant Bushwick neighborhood, this sophisticated creation represents a thoughtful reinterpretation of the classic Brooklyn cocktail, with the key distinction being its use of sweet vermouth rather than dry.
The original Brooklyn cocktail, which dates back to the early 1900s, was reportedly created by a bartender seeking to develop a companion cocktail to stand alongside the iconic Manhattan and the increasingly popular Bronx cocktail. Though it faded from prominence throughout much of the 20th century, the Brooklyn experienced a revival during the craft cocktail renaissance of the 2000s as bartenders rediscovered pre-Prohibition recipes.
Interestingly, while the Brooklyn was initially conceived as part of a trend naming cocktails after New York City boroughs, the Bushwick represents a later movement where mixologists began naming drinks after specific neighborhoods within those boroughs, joining contemporaries like the Greenpoint, Red Hook, and Bay Ridge. Historical research by drinks scholar David Wondrich revealed that early Brooklyn recipes actually called for sweet vermouth before later versions switched to dry, making Ward's Bushwick creation something of a return to the Brooklyn's original specifications.
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Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
The Bushwick Cocktail is a symphonic blend where the bold spice of Rittenhouse Rye dances seamlessly with the rich, aromatic embrace of sweet vermouth, offering a nod to its Brooklyn predecessor. The maraschino cherry liqueur sweetens the mix slightly, adding a whisper of cherry to the nose, while the Amer Picon or Amaro Lucano brings a deep, bittersweet complexity that rounds out the finish. Shaken and served cold, this cocktail is a love letter to both classic and modern mixology, offering a savory richness that unfolds with each sip, making it a refined choice for those who appreciate a robust and layered drink.
Method
How to make a Bushwick Cocktail
- Rye Whiskey 60 ml (Rittenhouse Rye preferred (100-proof)), Maraschino cherry liqueur 7.5 ml, Amaro 7.5 ml (Amer Picon or Amaro Lucano), Red vermouth 22.5 ml
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- Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice
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- Stir for 15-20 seconds until well chilled
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- Strain into a chilled Nick & Nora glass
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- Serve without garnish to highlight the complex flavor profile of the spirits
Power tips
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Find out more- To bring out the full flavor of the rye whiskey and enhance the cocktail's depth, consider aging the mixed Bushwick Cocktail ingredients in a charred oak barrel for about a week before serving. This technique adds a subtle complexity and smoothness that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Use freshly made Amer Picon or Amaro Lucano for your Bushwick Cocktail. Many store-bought versions of Amer Picon have a reduced alcohol content and a different taste than the original recipe, so attempting your own with quality ingredients can make a significant difference. Try infusing your amaro with dried orange peels or vanilla beans for an extra aromatic kick.
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FAQ's
What is the history and origin of the Bushwick Cocktail?
The Bushwick Cocktail was created in 2009 by Phil Ward, a renowned bartender at Mayahuel, a notable establishment in New York City's East Village which operated until 2017. This cocktail is named after the vibrant Bushwick neighborhood in Brooklyn. The Bushwick Cocktail is a sophisticated reinterpretation of the classic Brooklyn cocktail, with its main distinction being the use of sweet vermouth instead of dry. The original Brooklyn cocktail, conceived in the early 1900s, was part of a trend of naming cocktails after New York City boroughs. It was created by a bartender interested in developing companion cocktails to the iconic Manhattan and the Bronx cocktail. Although the Brooklyn faded from prominence throughout the 20th century, it saw a revival during the craft cocktail renaissance of the 2000s. Interestingly, historical research by drinks scholar David Wondrich revealed that early versions of the Brooklyn actually called for sweet vermouth instead of dry, making the Bushwick Cocktail something of a return to the original specifications.
Can I use a different type of whiskey in the Bushwick Cocktail?
The Bushwick Cocktail is traditionally made with Rye Whiskey, specifically recommending Rittenhouse Rye, which is 100-proof. However, if you're looking to use a different type of whiskey, you might consider choosing another robustly flavored rye to maintain the cocktail's intended flavor profile. A 100-proof rye whiskey is preferred for its boldness and ability to stand up to the other ingredients. If rye whiskey is unavailable, a high-quality bourbon could serve as an alternative, though it will introduce sweeter and more vanilla notes to the drink, potentially altering its balance. Be sure to adjust other ingredients if needed to achieve a desirable taste.
What is the recommended method for preparing the Bushwick Cocktail?
The Bushwick Cocktail is served cold, alcoholic, and requires shaking rather than stirring. To prepare it, you would combine the ingredients: 60 ml of Rye Whiskey, 22.5 ml of Red Vermouth, 7.5 ml of Maraschino cherry liqueur, and 7.5 ml of Amaro (such as Amer Picon or Amaro Lucano) in a shaker filled with ice. This helps to chill and properly mix the ingredients while achieving a balanced dilution. Once shaken, strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass. The technique of shaking is used here to aerate the drink, amalgamate the ingredients thoroughly, and maximize its texture.
How does the alcohol content of the Bushwick Cocktail compare to other cocktails?
The Bushwick Cocktail has an alcohol content of approximately 30%, which places it in the category of stronger cocktails. This is primarily due to the use of 100-proof rye whiskey as its main component. In comparison, many classic cocktails like the Martini or Manhattan also have relatively high alcohol content, generally ranging between 25% to 30% depending on their exact ingredients and proportions. Cocktails such as Margaritas or Daiquiris, which often involve mixers and fruit juices, typically have a lower alcohol by volume (ABV). The Bushwick's bold flavor and higher alcohol content make it a preferred choice for those seeking a strong, spirit-forward cocktail experience.
What foods pair well with the Bushwick Cocktail?
The Bushwick Cocktail's bold mix of rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and amaro creates a rich and sophisticated flavor profile. Its complex taste pairs well with foods that can stand up to its robust flavors. Consider pairing it with savory, hearty dishes such as grilled red meats like steak or lamb, which complement the whiskey's character. Charcuterie boards with aged cheeses, cured meats, and tangy pickles are also excellent accompaniments that complement the cocktail's bittersweet notes. For a sweeter touch, dark chocolate or rich desserts like tiramisu provide a delicious contrast that highlights the cocktail's unique taste profile.
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