Hunter Cocktail Recipe
Hunter Cocktail Nutrition Facts
Calories:200
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:7g
Alcohol %:40
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Hunter cocktail is a classic drink that dates back to the early 20th century. It's a whiskey-based cocktail that was popular among hunters and outdoorsmen, hence the name. It's a strong, robust drink that's perfect for those who enjoy a good whiskey.
- The Hunter cocktail is believed to have been named after the hunters who would enjoy this drink after a long day in the wilderness.
- It's a simple cocktail that only requires a few ingredients, making it easy to whip up even in the most remote locations.
How Hunter Cocktail Tastes?
The Hunter cocktail is a strong, robust drink with a rich, smoky flavor. The whiskey provides a warm, full-bodied taste that's complemented by the sweet, fruity notes of the cherry brandy. The bitters add a slight bitterness that balances out the sweetness, resulting in a well-rounded, complex flavor profile.
Interesting facts about Hunter Cocktail
- The Hunter cocktail is traditionally served in a cocktail glass, often garnished with a cherry.
- Despite its simplicity, the Hunter cocktail has a complex flavor profile that can be adjusted based on the type of whiskey and bitters used.
- The Hunter cocktail is often enjoyed as a nightcap due to its strong, warming properties.
Ingredients
- Whiskey: 2 oz(60ml)
- Cherry brandy: 1 oz(30ml)
- Bitters: 2 dashes
Whiskey
The backbone of our mighty Hunter, 2 oz of whiskey is just enough to hold its ground without overwhelming the senses. It brings warmth, smoky, and oak undertones that hug the soul like a bear cozying up in winter. Skimp on the whiskey, and the drink is a bear without claws; too much, and it's a bear hug you didn't ask for. Alternatives? A bourbon might make the affair sweeter, a rye spicier.
Alex Green
Cherry Brandy
The mischievous sidekick, 1 oz cherry brandy, is the Robin to our whiskey's Batman. It adds fruity, sweet complexity without stealing the show. Cherry on top? Literally. Leaving it out is like Robin deciding to binge-watch Netflix instead of fighting crime. Alternatives could be raspberry liqueur for a tart twist or an apricot brandy for a stone-fruity tang.
Mary Mitkina
Bitters
Two dashes of bitters swing in like a flavor ninja, adding depth and mystery with their herbal, spicy, and sometimes floral notes. Think of them like the plot twist in a movie; subtle but essential. Leave them out, and the cocktail loses its edge, like a detective story without a detective. Other bitters, like orange or chocolate, can lead your taste buds down a different, yet intriguing path.
Emma Rose
Recipe. How to make Hunter Cocktail Drink
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add 2 oz of whiskey, 1 oz of cherry brandy, and 2 dashes of bitters.
- Stir well until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a cherry and serve.
Pro Tips
- Use a high-quality whiskey for the best flavor.
- Stir the cocktail well to ensure all the flavors are well combined.
- Chill the cocktail glass before serving for the best experience.
Perfect Pairings
Food Pairings
- Grilled meats: The smoky flavor of whiskey in the cocktail complements the charred taste of grilled beef or pork.
- Rich cheeses: Try the Hunter Cocktail with a creamy blue cheese or a sharp cheddar to balance the cocktail's sweetness and strength.
- Dark chocolate: A piece of dark chocolate pairs nicely with the cherry and whiskey notes, making for a decadent experience.
Drink Pairings
- Coffee: Enjoy a strong espresso alongside the Hunter Cocktail for a robust flavor duo.
- Sparkling water: Cleanse your palate between sips with some refreshing sparkling water.
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What you could change in Hunter Cocktail
- Whiskey: Can be substituted with bourbon or rye whiskey.
- Cherry Brandy: Can be substituted with any other fruit brandy or liqueur.
Explore all drinks starting with H here
And of course - twists🍹
Smoky Hunter
Follow the original recipe, but use a smoky Islay Scotch instead of the traditional whiskey. This imparts a more intense, smoky flavor reminiscent of a campfire under the stars; ideal for those looking for a walk on the wilder side of the woods.
Berry Brave
Replace cherry brandy with blackberry liqueur. Adding blackberry brings a darker, tarter berry profile that makes the cocktail feel like a frolic through a berry patch. Serve this to the friend who mistakes fruit salad for a meal.
Golden Arrow
Swap your whiskey for honey bourbon and use orange bitters instead of traditional bitters. This concoction is sweeter and boasts a citrusy aroma. It will have an almost mead-like quality that could charm the bees out of their hives.
In case you forgot basics how to make Hunter Cocktail
Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainInsert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Hunter Cocktail
What type of whiskey works best for the Hunter Cocktail?
This comes down to personal preference, but a strong, full-bodied whiskey works well with this cocktail. A rye whiskey would add some spiciness, while a single malt whiskey might add some smoky undertones.
What is the best way to secure a cherry for the garnish?
You can use a cocktail skewer or a toothpick to secure the cherry. Simply impale the cherry and then place it in the glass.
How can I modify the Hunter Cocktail to make it less strong?
You can adjust the ratios in the cocktail to suit your preference. For example, use a bit less whiskey or more cherry brandy. You can also add some water or club soda to dilute the drink.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Hunter Cocktail?
You could try substituting the whiskey and cherry brandy with non-alcoholic substitutes, like non-alcoholic whiskey-flavored beverage and non-alcoholic cherry syrup.
How can I enhance the smoky flavor in the Hunter Cocktail?
Try using a peat-rich Scotch whiskey to increase the smokiness. You can also infuse the cocktail with a little smoke before serving, using a cocktail smoker.
Which dishes pair well with the Hunter Cocktail?
The robust flavors of the Hunter Cocktail pair well with savory dishes like grilled meats or hearty stews.
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