Windsor Cocktail Recipe

The Windsor Cocktail is a classic drink that dates back to the early 20th century. It is named after the Windsor Hotel in Montreal, Canada, where it was first created. The cocktail quickly gained popularity among the hotel's elite clientele and soon became a favorite among high society gatherings.

• The Windsor Hotel was a luxurious establishment, attracting the rich and famous
• The cocktail was a favorite among the hotel's guests, including politicians, celebrities, and royalty
• The Windsor Cocktail has since become a classic, enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world

The Windsor Cocktail has a complex and sophisticated taste, with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and bitter notes. It is smooth and velvety, with a hint of warmth from the whiskey and a refreshing citrus kick from the lemon juice.

• The Windsor Cocktail is sometimes referred to as the 'Canadian Manhattan' due to its similarities with the classic Manhattan cocktail
• The original recipe called for Canadian whiskey, but it can also be made with bourbon or rye whiskey
• The cocktail is typically served in a chilled cocktail glass, garnished with a lemon twist

1. In a mixing glass, combine the Canadian whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir until well chilled
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass
4. Garnish with a lemon twist

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a more vibrant flavor
• Chill your cocktail glass in advance for a cooler drink
• Stir the cocktail gently to avoid diluting the drink too much

Appetizers

• Smoked Salmon: The smokiness of the salmon elevates the whiskey's complexity.
• Gouda Cheese: A semi-hard cheese like Gouda can complement the richness of the Windsor.

Entrees

• Grilled Steak: The robust flavor of grilled steak pairs splendidly with the bold, oaky notes of Canadian whiskey.
• Roast Pork: A succulent roast pork with its natural sweetness and fats works harmoniously with the citrus and sweet notes of the cocktail.

Desserts

• Lemon Tart: The citrus notes in the tart and cocktail can enhance each other.
• Pecan Pie: The caramelized pecans can echo the sweet and nutty flavors of the whiskey.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings

• Ginger Ale: Can act as a palate cleanser between sips, complementing the spice of the bitters.
• Coffee: After the cocktail, coffee can accentuate the Windsor's complex flavors, especially if your coffee has a hint of caramel.

• Bourbon or rye whiskey can be used instead of Canadian whiskey
• Lime juice can replace lemon juice for a different citrus twist
• Honey syrup can be used instead of simple syrup for a sweeter taste

Maple Windsor

• Substitute simple syrup with maple syrup for a Canadian twist. The rich sweetness of maple will complement the whiskey's notes and add a forest-like aroma. Expect a cozier, more autumnal drink fitting for a log cabin evening.

Spiced Windsor

• Add a cinnamon stick during the stirring process, and a pinch of ground nutmeg with the bitters. This will bring a warm spiciness, perfect for colder months, turning the Windsor into a holiday hug in a glass.

Windsor Sour

• Increase lemon juice to 0.75 oz and add a frothy top by shaking the cocktail with an egg white. The result is a creamier texture with a bright, tangy flavor. This twist is like putting a zesty sweater on your drink!