Fox River Cocktail Recipe

The Fox River cocktail is a classic American cocktail that originated in the early 20th century. It was named after the Fox River, which runs through Illinois and Wisconsin. This cocktail was popular among the high society and was often enjoyed at lavish parties and events.

• The Fox River cocktail has a rich history and is associated with the glamour of the early 1900s.
• It was a favorite among the elite and was often enjoyed at exclusive gatherings.
• The cocktail's name is derived from the Fox River, which runs through Illinois and Wisconsin.

The Fox River cocktail has a complex and well-balanced taste. It is slightly sweet, with a hint of bitterness from the bitters, and a smooth, velvety texture. The whiskey provides a strong, warming backbone, while the vermouth adds a touch of herbal complexity.

• The Fox River cocktail is often served in a classic coupe glass, which adds to its elegant and sophisticated appearance.
• The cocktail is typically garnished with a cherry, which provides a pop of color and a touch of sweetness.
• The Fox River cocktail is sometimes compared to the Manhattan, as both are whiskey-based cocktails that feature vermouth and bitters.

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add 2 oz of whiskey, 1 oz of sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
3. Stir the mixture until well-chilled.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

• Chill your glass before serving to keep the cocktail cold longer.
• Use high-quality whiskey for a smoother taste.
• Stir the cocktail gently to avoid diluting the drink too much.

Appetizers

• Cheese platter: A selection of aged cheeses such as Gouda or Cheddar pairs wonderfully with the complex notes of the whiskey.
• Smoked meats: Opt for smoked salmon or prosciutto to complement the drink's rich flavors.

Main Courses

• Grilled steak: The bold flavors of a nicely grilled steak will harmonize with the whiskey's warmth.
• Mushroom risotto: For a vegetarian option, the earthiness of the mushrooms pairs well with the aromatic bitters.

Desserts

• Dark chocolate: Indulge in a piece of dark chocolate to echo the cocktail's depth and sweetness.
• Cherry pie: Match the maraschino cherry garnish with a similarly flavored dessert.

• Bourbon can be used instead of whiskey for a sweeter taste.
• Orange bitters can replace Angostura bitters for a citrusy twist.
• A lemon twist can be used as a garnish instead of a maraschino cherry.

Smoky River

• Substitute the whiskey for a smoky Islay single malt.
• Follow the original recipe. This will give the cocktail a much smokier profile, appealing to those who appreciate the peaty flavors of an Islay malt. Perfect for a chilly evening by the fire.

Maple River

• Substitute 0.5 oz of sweet vermouth with maple syrup.
• Use bourbon instead of traditional whiskey.
• Follow the rest of the original recipe. By swapping in some maple syrup, you'll get a sweeter, more indulgent drink with a pronounced maple note. The bourbon's natural sweetness will complement this perfectly.

Citrus River

• Add a twist of orange peel as garnish in addition to the maraschino cherry.
• Use orange bitters instead of Angostura bitters.
• Follow the original recipe. Introducing a bit of citrus will cut through the sweetness and add a refreshing zest. This twist is great for summer evenings or as a palate cleanser.