Brown Derby Cocktail Recipe

The Brown Derby cocktail is a classic cocktail that originated in the 1930s in Hollywood, California. It was named after the famous Brown Derby restaurant, which was shaped like a derby hat and frequented by many celebrities of the time. The cocktail quickly gained popularity and became a favorite among the Hollywood elite.

• The Brown Derby was often enjoyed by actors, directors, and producers during the Golden Age of Hollywood
• The cocktail's popularity spread beyond Hollywood and became a staple in bars and cocktail lounges across the country
• Today, the Brown Derby is considered a classic cocktail and is enjoyed by people who appreciate its rich history and delicious taste

The Brown Derby cocktail is a well-balanced mix of sweet, sour, and strong flavors. The bourbon provides a rich, warm base, while the grapefruit juice adds a tangy, citrusy note. The honey syrup brings a touch of sweetness to balance out the sourness of the grapefruit and the strength of the bourbon.

• The Brown Derby is sometimes referred to as a 'Hollywood classic' due to its origins in the famous Hollywood restaurant
• The cocktail is often served in a chilled coupe glass, which was a popular glassware choice during the 1930s
• The Brown Derby is sometimes garnished with a grapefruit twist or a cherry, adding an extra touch of elegance to the presentation

1. Prepare honey syrup by combining equal parts honey and warm water, stirring until fully dissolved. Allow to cool.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, grapefruit juice, and honey syrup.
3. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a grapefruit twist or cherry, if desired.

• Use fresh grapefruit juice for a brighter, fresher flavor.
• Chill your glass before pouring the cocktail to keep it cool longer.
• Double strain the cocktail to remove any pulp from the grapefruit juice.

Appetizers

• Charcuterie Boards: The savory flavors of cured meats contrast nicely with the sweetness of the honey and the tartness of the grapefruit.
• Sushi: Particularly with rolls featuring tempura shrimp or eel, the Brown Derby complements the delicate flavors of sushi.

Main Courses

• Grilled Chicken: The citrus element of the cocktail cuts through the richness of the chicken's skin.
• Pork Chops: A beautiful combination as the honey element mirrors a common glaze for pork.

Desserts

• Fruit Tarts: Echoes the citrus notes and complements the sweetness.
• Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Creates a perfect balance with the bourbon.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings

• Sparkling Water with a Dash of Bitters: Mimics the complexity of flavors while remaining non-alcoholic.

• Bourbon: Can be substituted with another type of whiskey or rye.
• Grapefruit juice: Can be substituted with another citrus juice, like orange or lemon.
• Honey syrup: Can be substituted with simple syrup or agave syrup.

Spicy Derby

• Add a slice of jalapeño: For those who like a kick, the spice will complement the sweet and tart profile while heating things up.
• Recipe: Follow the original recipe, adding a slice of jalapeño into the shaker before shaking.
• Flavor Change: Expect the warmth of the bourbon to be amplified by the heat of the pepper, leaving a zesty aftertaste.

Derby Sour

• Include an egg white: Creating a frothy cap atop your cocktail, the egg white will smooth out the flavors for a silkier beverage.
• Recipe: Add an egg white into the shaker with the other ingredients before adding ice and give it a dry shake. Then, shake again with ice and strain into the glass.
• Flavor Change: The egg white tempers the cocktail's zestiness, giving it a creamy texture and a more gentle tartness.

Herbal Derby

• Infuse the bourbon with rosemary: The herbal notes add an earthy complexity to the simple sweetness of honey and the tartness of grapefruit.
• Recipe: Infuse about 2 cups of bourbon with a sprig of rosemary for 1-2 hours, then use this in your cocktail.
• Flavor Change: Rosemary brings a woodsy note that echoes the barreling flavors of the bourbon, making for an aromatic and multi-layered sipping experience.