Waverly Cocktail Recipe

The Waverly cocktail is named after the famous Waverly Hills Sanatorium in Louisville, Kentucky. This historic building is known for its paranormal activity and has been featured on numerous ghost hunting shows. The cocktail was created in the 1920s by a local bartender who wanted to capture the eerie atmosphere of the sanatorium in a drink. It quickly gained popularity among the locals and visitors alike, and has since become a staple at bars around the world.

The Waverly cocktail is a complex and intriguing blend of flavors. It is slightly sweet, with a hint of tartness from the citrus, and a subtle smokiness from the whiskey. The herbal notes from the bitters and the warmth of the ginger liqueur add depth and balance to the drink, making it a satisfying and memorable experience.

• The Waverly cocktail is said to be the favorite drink of many ghost hunters who visit the Waverly Hills Sanatorium.
• The original recipe called for a specific brand of whiskey that was produced in Louisville, but it can now be made with any high-quality whiskey.
• Some variations of the Waverly cocktail include the addition of a splash of absinthe to enhance its mysterious and haunting qualities.

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the whiskey, lemon juice, ginger liqueur, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 10 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
4. Express the orange peel over the drink by holding it over the glass and giving it a good twist to release the oils. Discard the peel.
5. Garnish with a cherry, either on a cocktail pick or dropped into the drink.

• Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
• Chill your glass before serving to keep your cocktail colder for longer.
• Experiment with different types of whiskey to find the flavor profile you prefer.

Appetizers

• Charcuterie Boards: The spicy and sweet notes of the 'Waverly' accentuate the savory flavors of cured meats and aged cheeses.
• Sushi: Specifically rolls that include a touch of heat, like a spicy tuna roll, to complement the ginger undertones.
• Roasted Nuts: Especially almonds or pecans, which can echo the woody notes from the whiskey.

Main Courses

• Grilled Steak: The robust flavor of whisky pairs well with hearty red meat.
• BBQ Pork: The sweetness of the simple syrup and ginger liqueur can enhance the smokiness of barbecue.

Desserts

• Lemon Tart: The lemon in the cocktail brings harmony to citrus-based desserts.
• Dark Chocolate: The bitterness of dark chocolate contrasts pleasantly with the cocktail's sweetness.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings

• Sparkling Water: It's a refreshing palate cleanser between sips of the cocktail.
• Ginger Ale: Echoes the ginger notes in the cocktail for those who want a non-alcoholic option with a similar profile.

• Whiskey: Can be substituted with bourbon or rye.
• Ginger liqueur: Can be substituted with a homemade ginger syrup or non-alcoholic ginger beer.
• Simple syrup: Can be substituted with honey or agave syrup.

Smoky Waverly

• Substitute whiskey with mezcal for a smoky version.
• Use honey syrup instead of simple syrup to complement the smokiness.
• Add a pinch of smoked salt. This version introduces a smoky profile which marries the sweetness of honey and the spiciness of ginger, perfect for those who want a touch of rustic flair in their drink.

Spiced Waverly

• Infuse the whiskey with cinnamon sticks for a few days before making the cocktail.
• Add a small amount of apple cider to enhance the spiced character.
• Garnish with a cinnamon stick. This twist offers a warmer, spiced alternative, ideal for fall or winter nights, giving a nod to classic holiday flavors.

Herbal Waverly

• Include a sprig of rosemary or basil in the shaker.
• Replace ginger liqueur with St-Germain for a floral note.
• Use a sprig of rosemary as garnish. The introduction of herbs and floral liqueur provides a garden-fresh take on the original, great for an invigorating summer refreshment.