The Japanese cocktail is a classic drink that has been enjoyed for over a century. This elegant and refreshing cocktail combines the flavors of cognac, orgeat, and bitters, creating a unique blend of sweet and bitter notes. It is a staple in many bars and is loved by cocktail connoisseurs all over the world. If you're looking to impress your guests with a sophisticated and delicious drink, then look no further than the Japanese cocktail. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of this beloved drink and provide you with a simple yet professional recipe to make it at home.
Main Ingredients: Dark Rum, Dry Vermouth, Fresh Orange Juice, Sugar
The Roosevelt Cocktail is a classic drink that is perfect for any occasion. With its smooth and refreshing taste, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Made with gin, vermouth, and orange bitters, this cocktail is simple yet sophisticated.
2of 20
Opposites Attract Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Vanilla Vodka, Campari, Sweet Vermouth, Maraschino
As the name suggests, the Opposites Attract Cocktail is a perfect blend of contrasting flavors. Made with tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and cranberry juice, this cocktail is sweet and tart at the same time. It's a great choice for those who like a little bit of everything.
3of 20
“Dr. Scola” Dr. Pepper Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Orange Zest, Dr Pepper, Fernet Branca, Rum, Bitters
If you're a fan of Dr. Pepper, then you'll love the "Dr. Scola" Dr. Pepper Cocktail. Made with vodka and Dr. Pepper, this simple yet delicious cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy the classic soda. Add a squeeze of lime juice for an extra kick.
4of 20
Clementine Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Vodka, Clementine Juice, Simple Syrup, Clementine
For a refreshing and citrusy cocktail, try the Clementine Cocktail. Made with clementine juice, vodka, and club soda, this drink is perfect for a hot summer day. Garnish with a slice of clementine for an added touch.
5of 20
Escape from Alcatraz Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Ginger, Orange, Lemon Juice, Cointreau, Rye Whiskey
Take a sip and escape from the ordinary with the Escape from Alcatraz Cocktail. Made with tequila, grapefruit juice, and lime juice, this cocktail is a refreshing twist on the classic Margarita. Rim the glass with salt for an authentic touch.
6of 20
Japanese Hot Sake Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Lemon, Sugar Cubes, Sake, Jasmine Tea
For those who prefer a warm and cozy cocktail, the Japanese Hot Sake Cocktail is the perfect choice. Made with hot sake, amaretto, and honey, this drink is sweet, warm, and comforting. Perfect for a cold winter evening.
The Japanese Cocktail is a classic drink that has stood the test of time. Made with brandy, orgeat syrup, and Angostura bitters, this cocktail is smooth, sweet, and perfectly balanced. Garnish with a cherry for a pop of color.
The Japanese Fizz Cocktail is a refreshing and fizzy drink that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with gin, lemon juice, and soda water, this cocktail is light and citrusy. Add a splash of grenadine for a touch of sweetness.
9of 20
Cinnamon Basil Japanese Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Cognac, Orgeat, Basil, Angostura Bitters
If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail, try the Cinnamon Basil Japanese Cocktail. Made with sake, cinnamon basil syrup, and lime juice, this drink has a spicy and herbal twist. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for an extra kick.
10of 20
Amazu Shoga Martini | Dirty Martini Japanese Style
Main Ingredients: Gin, Sake, Gari, Orange Bitters
The Amazu Shoga Martini, also known as the Dirty Martini Japanese Style, is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Made with vodka, pickled ginger brine, and olive brine, this cocktail has a unique and delicious taste. Garnish with a pickled ginger for an added touch.
11of 20
Japanese Raspberry Punch
Main Ingredients: Sake, Raspberry Liqueur, Lemon Juice, Raspberry Puree
For a fruity and refreshing cocktail, try the Japanese Raspberry Punch. Made with gin, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and soda water, this drink is perfect for a summer party. Add some fresh raspberries for a burst of flavor.
The Japanese Slipper Cocktail is a vibrant and flavorful drink that is sure to impress. Made with midori, cointreau, and lemon juice, this cocktail has a beautiful green color and a tangy taste. Garnish with a maraschino cherry for a pop of color.
13of 20
Tropical Bay Breeze Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Pineapple Juice, Cranberry Juice, Malibu Rum, Grenadine
The Tropical Bay Breeze Cocktail is a perfect blend of tropical flavors. Made with vodka, pineapple juice, and cranberry juice, this drink is sweet, fruity, and refreshing. Garnish with a slice of pineapple for a tropical touch.
14of 20
Take me to the Bedroom Cocktail!
Main Ingredients: Vodka, Amaretto, Southern Comfort, Orange Juice
For a fun and playful cocktail, try the Take me to the Bedroom Cocktail! Made with champagne, vodka, and peach schnapps, this drink is perfect for a romantic evening. Serve in a flute glass for an elegant touch.
15of 20
Dark 'N' Stormy - My Favourite Cocktail!
Main Ingredients: Ice, Ginger Beer, Lime, Lime Slices, Spiced Rum
The Dark 'N' Stormy is a classic cocktail that is loved by many. Made with dark rum and ginger beer, this drink is simple yet delicious. Add a squeeze of lime juice for an extra kick.
16of 20
Vodka Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Vodka, Lemon Lime Soda, Grenadine Syrup, Cranberry
For a straightforward and easy drink, try the Vodka Cocktail. Made with vodka and orange juice, this cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a classic combination. Add a splash of grenadine for a touch of sweetness.
17of 20
Tropical Mai Tai Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Rum, Grand Marnier, Pineapple Juice, Lemon Juice
The Tropical Mai Tai Cocktail is a fruity and tropical drink that will transport you to a sunny beach. Made with rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and orange curaçao, this drink is sweet, tangy, and refreshing. Garnish with a pineapple wedge for a tropical touch.
18of 20
Fruit Tingle Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Vodka, Liqueur, Lemonade, Raspberry Cordial
The Fruit Tingle Cocktail is a colorful and fruity drink that is perfect for a girls' night out. Made with vodka, blue curaçao, and lemonade, this drink is sweet, tangy, and fun. Add a rainbow sugar rim for an extra pop of color.
19of 20
Leg Spreader (Naughty) Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Tequila, Vodka, Gin, Rum
The Leg Spreader (Naughty) Cocktail is a fun and flirty drink that is perfect for a bachelorette party. Made with vodka, triple sec, and cranberry juice, this drink is sweet, tangy, and sure to get the party started. Serve in a martini glass for a touch of elegance.
20of 20
Kentucky Peach Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Peach, Peach Vodka, Lemonade, Simple Syrup, Bourbon
The Kentucky Peach Cocktail is a sweet and peachy drink that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with bourbon whiskey, peach schnapps, and lemon juice, this cocktail has a refreshing and fruity taste. Garnish with a sliced peach for an added touch.
The History of the Japanese Cocktail
The Japanese cocktail was first created in the 1860s by bartender Jerry Thomas at the New York City bar, the "New York Exchange." It was named after the first Japanese delegation to visit the United States, who were staying at the hotel next to the bar. The original recipe included brandy, orgeat syrup, and bitters, and was served in a large goblet. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, with the addition of different spirits and ingredients, but the core flavors have remained the same.
The Ingredients You Need
To make a traditional Japanese cocktail, you will need the following ingredients:
Brandy: The base spirit of the Japanese cocktail is brandy. You can use cognac, which is a type of brandy made from distilled wine, or any other brandy of your choice.
Orgeat Syrup: This sweet almond-flavored syrup is a key ingredient in the Japanese cocktail. It adds a nutty and slightly floral flavor to the drink.
Bitters: Bitters are a concentrated alcoholic mixture made from herbs, spices, and fruit. They add depth and complexity to the drink, balancing out the sweetness of the orgeat syrup.
Lemon Peel: A lemon peel is used as a garnish for the Japanese cocktail. It not only adds a pop of color but also adds a subtle citrus aroma to the drink.
The Recipe
Now that you have all the ingredients, it's time to make your own Japanese cocktail. Here's a simple recipe that you can follow:
In a mixing glass, pour 2 ounces of brandy, 1/2 ounce of orgeat syrup, and 2 dashes of bitters.
Add ice to the mixing glass and stir for approximately 20 seconds.
Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish with a lemon peel.
Your Japanese cocktail is now ready to be served and enjoyed!
For a twist on the classic recipe, you can also try using different types of brandy or adding a splash of soda water to make it a long drink.
In Conclusion
The Japanese cocktail is a timeless drink that has stood the test of time. Its combination of sweet, nutty, and bitter flavors make it a well-balanced and sophisticated choice for any occasion. Now that you know the history and recipe of this beloved drink, why not give it a try and impress your friends and family with your bartending skills? Cheers!