Ward Eight Cocktail Recipe

The Ward Eight cocktail is believed to have originated in Boston, Massachusetts, around the late 19th century. It was named after the city's Ward 8 district and was created to celebrate the election of a local politician. The cocktail quickly gained popularity and became a staple in many bars across the country.

• The Ward Eight is a classic cocktail with a rich history
• It is often enjoyed by those who appreciate whiskey-based drinks and classic American cocktails
• The drink has a strong connection to Boston and its political scene

The Ward Eight has a balanced taste profile, featuring a mix of sweet, sour, and fruity flavors. The whiskey provides a strong, warming base, while the lemon and orange juices add a refreshing citrus tang. The grenadine imparts a subtle sweetness and a beautiful color to the drink.

• The Ward Eight is considered a variation of the Whiskey Sour, with the addition of grenadine and orange juice
• Some variations of the Ward Eight use rye whiskey instead of bourbon
• The cocktail is often served in a chilled coupe glass, garnished with a cherry or an orange twist

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the following ingredients:
   • 2 oz bourbon
   • 0.5 oz lemon juice
   • 0.5 oz orange juice
   • 1 tsp grenadine
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until chilled
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass
4. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange twist

• Shake the cocktail well to ensure all the ingredients are well mixed.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon and orange juice for a more vibrant flavor.
• Chill the coupe glass before serving to keep the cocktail cool for longer.

Appetizers

• Empanadas: The savory flavors of meat or vegetables wrapped in pastry dough complement the sweetness of the cocktail.
• Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses, especially sharp cheddar or gouda, pairs nicely to balance the cocktail's acidity.

Main Courses

• Grilled Pork Chops: The smoky flavors from the grill will enhance the bourbon's warm notes.
• Roasted Duck: The rich, fatty profile of duck meats the fruit-forward elements of the Ward Eight.

Desserts

• Lemon Tart: To echo the citrus notes of the cocktail.
• Dark Chocolate: The bitterness of dark chocolate will contrast the drink's sweetness.

• Bourbon can be substituted with rye whiskey for a spicier flavor.
• If you don't have grenadine, you can use a cherry syrup or a raspberry syrup.
• Lemon juice can be replaced with lime juice for a different citrus note.

Smoky Eight

• Substitute bourbon with smoky Scotch whisky
• Add a touch of maple syrup Turn the classic on its head with a dash of smoky Scotch. The maple syrup will complement the peat with its earthy sweetness. This twist is for those who enjoy a walk on the wild side of flavors.

Spicy Eight

• Add a small slice of jalapeño to the shaker before mixing
• Use honey instead of grenadine Spice it up! The jalapeño's heat will dance with the sweet honey, putting a zesty spring in your sip. This one's not for the faint of heart—it's the cocktail equivalent of a thrill ride.

Garden Eight

• Muddle fresh basil leaves in the shaker
• Use a splash of elderflower liqueur instead of grenadine This version takes a botanical turn, with herbal notes from the basil and a floral whisper from the elderflower. It's like a secret garden in a glass—mysterious and inviting.