Yale Cocktail Recipe

The Yale Cocktail is a classic cocktail that dates back to the early 20th century. It was named after the prestigious Yale University and was a popular drink among the Ivy League crowd. The cocktail is known for its deep blue color, which is reminiscent of the university's official color.

• The Yale Cocktail was first mentioned in Hugo Ensslin's 1917 book, 'Recipes for Mixed Drinks'
• It is believed to have been created by a bartender at the Yale Club in New York City
• The cocktail has been enjoyed by many famous Yale alumni, including presidents and celebrities

The Yale Cocktail has a balanced taste, with a hint of sweetness from the maraschino liqueur and a slight tartness from the lemon juice. The gin provides a strong, herbal backbone, while the orange bitters add a touch of citrus and complexity.

• The blue color of the cocktail comes from the addition of blue curaçao, a liqueur made from the dried peel of the Laraha citrus fruit
• The Yale Cocktail is sometimes referred to as a 'Blue Martini' due to its similar ingredients and preparation
• The cocktail has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, as classic cocktails have become more fashionable

1. Chill a cocktail glass by filling it with ice and water, then set aside
2. In a mixing glass, combine the gin, blue curaçao, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and orange bitters
3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled
4. Empty the cocktail glass and strain the mixture into the glass
5. Garnish with a lemon twist, expressing the oils over the drink and placing it on the rim of the glass

• Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter, fresher flavor
• Stir the cocktail for at least 30 seconds to ensure it's well-chilled
• Express the lemon twist over the drink to release the oils, adding an extra layer of citrus flavor

Seafood

• Oysters - The briny freshness of oysters complements the crisp and citrus notes of the Yale cocktail.
• Grilled Shrimp - Grilled shrimp's smoky flavor pairs nicely with the citrus and botanical elements of the cocktail.

Cheese

• Blue Cheese - The bold flavors of blue cheese will stand up to the strong gin and the sweet and sour components of the drink.
• Goat Cheese - A tangy goat cheese can nicely balance the sweetness of the maraschino liqueur and blue curaçao.

Snacks

• Salted Nuts - A classic bar snack, the saltiness and crunchiness of nuts will complement the cocktail's complex flavor profile.
• Light Crackers or Breadsticks - These neutral snacks provide a palate-cleansing effect between sips of the aromatic Yale cocktail.

• Gin: Can be substituted with vodka for a less herbal flavor
• Blue Curaçao: Triple Sec can be used as a substitute, but it will change the color of the cocktail
• Maraschino Liqueur: Cherry Brandy can be used as a substitute

Elderflower Yale

• Swap Maraschino Liqueur with Elderflower Liqueur (0.25 oz)
• Add a splash of soda water This variation introduces a fragrant, floral note with the elderflower while adding a playful effervescence. The soda water lightens the drink, making it an easy sipper on a warm afternoon.

Spiced Yale

• Infuse the gin with spices like cinnamon and cardamom
• Add apple juice (0.5 oz) Warm spices and apple juice bring autumnal vibes to the Yale. It's like a cozy sweater for your palate, perfect for when the leaves start to turn.

Yale in Pink

• Replace Blue Curaçao with Pink Grapefruit Liqueur (0.5 oz)
• A dash of grenadine for extra sweetness and color The Pink Grapefruit Liqueur and grenadine add a tangy, sweet touch and transform the Yale into a pink delight. It's a twist that whispers 'summer romance' with every sip.