Commodore Cocktail Recipe

The Commodore cocktail is a classic whiskey-based drink that dates back to the early 20th century. It was first mentioned in Harry Craddock's famous 1930 cocktail book, 'The Savoy Cocktail Book'. The drink is named after the naval rank of Commodore, which is a nod to its strong and commanding flavor profile. This cocktail is perfect for whiskey lovers and those who appreciate a well-balanced, sophisticated drink.

The Commodore cocktail is a rich, smooth, and slightly sweet drink with a hint of sourness. The combination of whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar creates a strong, yet balanced flavor profile. The addition of grenadine adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful reddish hue to the drink.

• The Commodore cocktail is named after the naval rank of Commodore, which is a nod to its strong and commanding flavor profile.
• The drink was first mentioned in Harry Craddock's famous 1930 cocktail book, 'The Savoy Cocktail Book'.
• The combination of whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar creates a strong, yet balanced flavor profile.

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add 2oz of whiskey, 1oz of lemon juice, 0.5oz of sugar, and 0.5oz of grenadine to the shaker.
3. Shake well until chilled and combined.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice.

• Use high-quality whiskey for the best flavor.
• Chill the glass before pouring the cocktail to keep it cold longer.
• Shake the cocktail shaker vigorously to properly mix the ingredients and chill the drink.

Appetizers

• Cheese platter: A selection of cheeses, especially ones with a bit of age like cheddar or gouda, can highlight the warmth and depth of the whiskey.
• Grilled shrimp: The cocktail's citrus notes can complement seafood, making lemony grilled shrimp a delightful pairing.

Main Courses

• BBQ pork ribs: The smokiness of the pork alongside the sweet and sour components of the Commodore creates a harmonious balance.
• Roast chicken: The simplicity of a roast chicken allows the flavors of the cocktail to stand out without overpowering the meal.

Desserts

• Chocolate tart: The richness of chocolate pairs well with the whiskey base and the cherry notes of the garnish.
• Fruit salad: A light and fresh option to cleanse the palate, pairing well with the citrus elements in the drink.

• Whiskey: Can be substituted with bourbon or rye.
• Lemon Juice: Lime juice can be used for a different flavor profile.
• Sugar: Honey or agave syrup can be used as a natural sweetener.
• Grenadine: Can be replaced with a dash of raspberry syrup or pomegranate juice.

Maple Commodore

Exchange the sugar for maple syrup for a richer, autumnal twist. This variation brings a woodsy note complementing the whiskey and a hint of Canada to your glass.

Ingredients:

• 2oz Whiskey
• 1oz Lemon juice
• 0.5oz Maple syrup
• 0.5oz Grenadine
• Maraschino cherry
• Orange slice

Recipe: Use maple syrup in place of sugar and follow the original recipe. Tastes like a walk through falling leaves with a flask of finesse.

Berry Commodore

Introduce a splash of berry liqueur, such as Chambord, to replace the grenadine. This adds a berry complexity and kicks the fruitiness up a notch

Ingredients:

• 2oz Whiskey
• 1oz Lemon juice
• 0.5oz Sugar
• 0.5oz Berry liqueur
• Maraschino cherry
• Orange slice

Recipe: Use the berry liqueur in place of grenadine and follow the original recipe. You've just upgraded your ticket to a berry-licious cruise!

Smokey Commodore

For a smokier profile, use a peated Scotch and a dash of smoked bitters. This brings a fireside element to your cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 2oz Peated Scotch
• 1oz Lemon juice
• 0.5oz Sugar
• 0.5oz Grenadine
• Maraschino cherry
• Smoked bitters
• Orange slice

Recipe: Add a dash of smoked bitters with the rest of the ingredients and follow the original recipe. This cocktail's for those who want to sail through a fog of flavor!