Oriental Cocktail Recipe

The Oriental cocktail has its roots in the early 20th century, when it was first published in the 1930 Savoy Cocktail Book by Harry Craddock. This classic cocktail is a favorite among those who enjoy the exotic flavors of the East, with its combination of rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a touch of cherry liqueur.

• Originally created for travelers seeking a taste of the Orient
• A popular choice during the Prohibition era
• Has experienced a resurgence in recent years as a classic cocktail

The Oriental cocktail offers a harmonious balance of sweet, spicy, and fruity flavors. The rye whiskey provides a strong, robust base, while the sweet vermouth adds a touch of sweetness and complexity. The cherry liqueur imparts a subtle fruitiness, and the orange bitters add a hint of citrus and spice.

• The Oriental cocktail is sometimes referred to as the 'East Meets West' cocktail due to its fusion of Eastern and Western flavors
• The original recipe called for equal parts rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and cherry liqueur, but modern interpretations often adjust the ratios to create a more balanced drink
• The Oriental is often garnished with a cherry or an orange twist to enhance its visual appeal and add a touch of elegance

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice
2. Add 2 oz rye whiskey
3. Add 1 oz sweet vermouth
4. Add 0.5 oz cherry liqueur
5. Add 2 dashes of orange bitters
6. Stir the mixture until well chilled
7. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass
8. Garnish with a maraschino cherry or an orange twist

• Use high-quality ingredients: The taste of your cocktail will largely depend on the quality of the ingredients you use. Always opt for high-quality spirits and fresh garnishes.
• Chill your glass: A chilled glass will keep your cocktail colder for longer, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
• Stir, don't shake: This cocktail should be stirred, not shaken, to prevent over-dilution.

Appetizers & Snacks

• Cheese Platter: A selection of hard cheeses like cheddar or gouda can complement the richness of the rye whiskey.
• Charcuterie Board: Savory cured meats will pair well with the sweetness of the vermouth and cherry liqueur.

Main Courses

• Barbecue Ribs: The smoky flavors of the ribs will enhance the spiciness of the rye whiskey.
• Roast Duck: The fruit notes from the cherry liqueur will complement the richness of duck.

Desserts

• Dark Chocolate: A piece of rich, dark chocolate can be a delightful contrast to the cocktail's complexity.
• Cherry Pie: To echo the cherry liqueur, a slice of cherry pie would pair beautifully.

• Rye Whiskey: Can be substituted with Bourbon for a sweeter, smoother cocktail.
• Sweet Vermouth: Can be replaced with Dry Vermouth for a less sweet, more herbal flavor.
• Cherry Liqueur: If unavailable, consider using a Raspberry Liqueur or a dash of Grenadine.

Smoky Oriental

• Substitute rye whiskey with a smoky Scotch.
• This twist adds a layer of peaty smokiness, pairing well with the cherry and citrus flavors.

Spicy Oriental

• Add a thin slice of fresh ginger to the mixing glass before stirring.
• The ginger imparts a warming spice that plays nicely with the orange bitters and deepens the rye's natural kick.

Herbal Oriental

• Replace sweet vermouth with an herbal liqueur like Chartreuse.
• This creates a more complex, herbal profile that could intrigue the senses and make for an excellent after-dinner digestif.