Claridge’s Cocktail Book: A Guide to Iconic Drinks
Claridge’s is renowned for its iconic cocktails, and now, thanks to the hotel’s cocktail book, you can bring a touch of luxury into your own home. The Claridge’s Cocktail Book offers a curated selection of recipes that reflect the hotel’s rich history and sophisticated taste.
From timeless classics to creative contemporary drinks, the book allows cocktail enthusiasts to explore the artistry behind Claridge’s famed concoctions. Whether you’re hosting a special event or enjoying a quiet evening, these recipes will elevate your at-home cocktail game.
Classic Claridge’s Cocktails You Can Make Yourself
Here are a few signature drinks from the Claridge’s cocktail collection that you can easily recreate in your own kitchen:
The Iconic Claridge’s Martini
A refined version of the classic martini, this drink is a staple at Claridge’s. Here's how to recreate it at home:
- Ingredients: 2 oz gin, 1/2 oz dry vermouth, lemon twist or olive (optional).
- Instructions: Stir gin and vermouth with ice in a mixing glass until chilled. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a twist of lemon or an olive. Serve and enjoy!
The Claridge’s Old Fashioned
A drink with elegance and simplicity, perfect for any classic cocktail lover:
- Ingredients: 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey, 1 sugar cube, 3 dashes Angostura bitters, orange peel.
- Instructions: Muddle the sugar and bitters in a rocks glass, then add ice and pour in the whiskey. Stir gently and garnish with a twist of orange peel. Enjoy the smooth, rich flavors.
Claridge’s Fumoir Negroni
This variation on the classic Negroni offers a refined and bold flavor profile:
- Ingredients: 1 oz gin, 1 oz Campari, 1 oz sweet vermouth, orange twist for garnish.
- Instructions: Stir the gin, Campari, and vermouth in a mixing glass with ice. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with the orange twist for a fragrant finish.
Tips for Sourcing Ingredients
To truly capture the essence of Claridge’s cocktails, sourcing the right ingredients is key. Here are a few tips for ensuring your drinks are as close to the original as possible:
- Use High-Quality Spirits: Opt for premium brands of gin, whiskey, and vermouth to get that signature smoothness and depth of flavor.
- Fresh Ingredients: For garnishes like citrus or herbs, always use fresh ingredients to bring out the best flavor.
- Specialty Items: Some recipes, like the Fumoir Negroni, call for unique vermouths or bitters, which can be found at specialty liquor shops or online retailers.
By carefully selecting your ingredients, you’ll bring the luxury of Claridge’s directly into your home bar.
How to Pair Claridge’s Cocktails with Different Occasions
Claridge’s cocktails aren’t just for any occasion—they’re designed to elevate the moment. Here’s how to pair them with different events:
- The Claridge’s Martini: Ideal for sophisticated dinner parties or evening cocktails with friends. Its crisp and refreshing taste makes it perfect for special occasions.
- The Old Fashioned: A timeless drink for cozy evenings, intimate gatherings, or celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries.
- The Fumoir Negroni: Perfect for a pre-dinner drink or as an aperitif at cocktail receptions, where the bold flavors can stimulate the palate before a meal.
By pairing the right cocktail with the right occasion, you can ensure that every event feels special.
