The 1920s, also known as the Roaring Twenties, was a decade of significant social and cultural change. It was a time of flappers, jazz music, and speakeasies. Cocktails played a major role in the social scene of the 1920s, and many classic cocktails that are still popular today were created during this time. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the cocktails that were popular in the 1920s, their history, ingredients, and how to make them.
The Social Scene of the 1920s
The 1920s was a time of rebellion and liberation. After World War I, people were looking for ways to have fun and let loose. The Prohibition era, which began in 1920, made alcohol illegal, but this only made it more desirable and led to the rise of speakeasies.
Speakeasies were secret bars that served alcohol illegally. They were often located in basements, back rooms, or behind false walls. Speakeasies were popular among the wealthy and the middle class, and they became a place for people to socialize, dance, and drink.
The 1920s was also a time of great fashion. Flappers wore short skirts, bobbed hair, and lots of makeup. They were known for their love of dancing and having a good time. Cocktails were an essential part of the flapper lifestyle, and they were often served in elegant glasses with fancy garnishes.
Popular Cocktails of the 1920s
1. The Martini:
The Martini is one of the most classic cocktails of all time, and it was extremely popular in the 1920s. It is made with gin and vermouth, and it is typically garnished with an olive or a lemon twist. The Martini was known for its sophisticated flavor and its ability to make people feel elegant and refined.
2. The Manhattan:
Another classic cocktail that was popular in the 1920s is the Manhattan. It is made with whiskey, vermouth, and bitters, and it is often garnished with a cherry. The Manhattan was a favorite among the upper class, and it was known for its strong flavor and its ability to warm people up on a cold night.
3. The Sidecar:
The Sidecar is a cocktail made with cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice. It is typically served in a sugar-rimmed glass and garnished with an orange slice. The Sidecar was a popular cocktail among women in the 1920s, and it was known for its sweet and tangy flavor.
4. The French 75:
The French 75 is a cocktail made with gin, champagne, lemon juice, and sugar. It is named after the French 75mm field gun, and it was known for its powerful kick. The French 75 was a popular cocktail among soldiers returning from World War I, and it was often served at victory celebrations.
5. The Bee’s Knees:
The Bee’s Knees is a cocktail made with gin, honey, and lemon juice. It is named after the phrase “the bee’s knees,” which was a popular slang term in the 1920s meaning something excellent or outstanding. The Bee’s Knees was a popular cocktail among flappers, and it was known for its sweet and refreshing flavor.
Ingredients Used in 1920s Cocktails
1. Gin:
Gin was one of the most popular spirits in the 1920s. It was known for its clean and refreshing flavor, and it was often used in cocktails such as the Martini and the Bee’s Knees.
2. Whiskey:
Whiskey was also popular in the 1920s, especially among men. It was often used in cocktails such as the Manhattan and the Old Fashioned.
3. Vermouth:
Vermouth is a fortified wine that is flavored with herbs and spices. It was often used in cocktails such as the Martini and the Manhattan to add complexity and depth of flavor.
4. Bitters:
Bitters are a concentrated liquid made from herbs, spices, and other flavorings. They were often used in cocktails such as the Manhattan and the Old Fashioned to add a touch of bitterness and complexity.
5. Lemon Juice:
Lemon juice was a common ingredient in 1920s cocktails. It was used to add acidity and freshness to cocktails such as the Sidecar and the Bee’s Knees.
6. Orange Liqueur:
Orange liqueur was often used in cocktails such as the Sidecar and the French 75 to add sweetness and citrus flavor.
7. Champagne:
Champagne was a popular ingredient in cocktails such as the French 75. It was used to add bubbles and elegance to the cocktail.
See Also: How To Pasteurize Egg White For Cocktails?
How to Make 1920s Cocktails
1. The Martini:
To make a Martini, combine 2 ounces of gin and 1/2 ounce of dry vermouth in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir well until chilled, then strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with an olive or a lemon twist.
2. The Manhattan:
To make a Manhattan, combine 2 ounces of whiskey, 1/2 ounce of sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes of bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir well until chilled, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a cherry.
3. The Sidecar:
To make a Sidecar, combine 2 ounces of cognac, 1 ounce of orange liqueur, and 1 ounce of lemon juice in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well until chilled, then strain into a sugar-rimmed cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange slice.
4. The French 75:
To make a French 75, combine 1 ounce of gin, 1/2 ounce of lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well until chilled, then strain into a champagne flute. Top with champagne and stir gently. Garnish with a lemon twist.
5. The Bee’s Knees:
To make a Bee’s Knees, combine 2 ounces of gin, 1/2 ounce of honey syrup, and 3/4 ounce of lemon juice in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well until chilled, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon slice.
Conclusion
The 1920s was a decade of great change and innovation, and cocktails were an important part of the social scene. The cocktails that were popular in the 1920s are still enjoyed today, and they are a testament to the creativity and sophistication of the era. Whether you are a fan of classic cocktails or you are looking to try something new, the cocktails of the 1920s are sure to impress.
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