Hmmm, I wonder if you remember Sophia Petrillo (portrayed by the late Estelle Getty) from the television comedy series “The Golden Girls”, who is the witty and feisty matriarch of the group. She often begins her amusing anecdotes by saying “picture it…” to capture the attention of her friends and share her hilarious tales from the past. Sophia’s sharp wit and comedic timing have made her a beloved character on the show and have contributed to the enduring popularity of “The Golden Girls.”
Like Sophia, I will also share quite a few stories in addition to the cocktail recipes. Picture it…! From the classic elegance of a Martini to the tropical allure of a Piña Colada, I’ll spill all the delectable details on how to craft these liquid wonders. Sip on the history of the Mojito, born in the vibrant streets of Havana, or embrace the cosmopolitan vibe of Manhattan, an iconic tipple with a New York state of mind.
There are three theories about the origin of this cocktail.
A coconut a day keeps the doctor away.
Legend has it that this concoction came to life in the early 1920s when a bartender named Fernand Petiot was slinging drinks at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris. Now, Fernand was known for his creativity behind the bar, and one fateful day, a patron asked him for a hangover cure that would knock their socks off. Not one to back down from a challenge, Fernand mixed up some vodka, tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of spice. He presented it to the thirsty customer, who exclaimed, “It’s as red as a bloody Mary!” And just like that, a legend was born. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, with various additions like horseradish, lemon, and hot sauce making their way into the mix.
Picture it… It’s the 1950s, and the Tiki culture is in full swing. Bartender extraordinaire Harry Yee, stationed at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki, was on a mission to create a vibrant, eye-catching drink that embodied the essence of this island paradise. Inspired by the electric blue hues of the ocean and the vibrant tropical flowers that adorned the landscape, Harry mixed up a concoction of light rum, blue Curaçao, sweet and sour mix, and a splash of pineapple juice. He poured it into a glass and adorned it with a cute little paper umbrella, because, hey, it’s Tiki time! As soon as that first sip hit the lips of the lucky customer, it was love at first taste. The Blue Hawaii cocktail quickly became a symbol of relaxation, sun-kissed beaches, and Hawaiian hospitality. So the next time you indulge in this azure libation, raise your glass to Harry Yee and the tropical spirit of aloha that he captured in every sip. Mahalo!
I need a holiday. And by holiday, I mean I need to move away and find a job. On the beach. With cocktails.
An American bartender, Andy MakElhon, made good use of the Blue Curacao liqueur which flooded the European market in the 1960s.
There’s also a movie of the same name.
You will also find Blue Lagoon Island in Malta. To get to the island, take a ferry from Cirkewwa in the North of Malta, or go on a boat cruise that berths at the Blue Lagoon Island for a few hours. Alternatively, explore on your own from Sliema/Buġibba.
Vodka may not be the answer but it’s worth a shot.
Blue Tahoe cocktail, a delightful libation that transports you to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe. The origins of this tantalizing drink can be traced back to the vibrant cocktail culture of the 1990s. Mixologists, inspired by the beauty of the iconic alpine lake, set out to create a cocktail that captures its essence. Combining premium vodka, blue curaçao, and a splash of fresh citrus, they achieved the perfect balance of refreshing flavors and captivating blue hues. The Blue Tahoe quickly became a sensation, beloved for its ability to evoke a sense of tranquility and adventure with each sip. Whether you’re sipping it at a lakeside bar or reminiscing about Tahoe’s pristine shores, this cocktail is a testament to the creativity and passion of mixologists who seek to craft experiences through the art of mixology.
The cocktail recipe has changed over the years, but the real thing is to use Tahoe Blue Vodka. The spectacular Tahoe Lake in California was the inspiration behind Blue Tahoe Vodka. Lake Tahoe’s pristine water makes a world-class vodka.
Support Lake Tahoe. Instead of tequila, use Tahoe Blue Vodka, and give back to the environment. Tahoe Blue Vodka donates a portion of its proceeds to help preserve both the lake itself and the diverse environment surrounding it.
Girls just wanna have cocktails.
With a maximum depth of over 1600 feet, the lake is one of the world’s top-ten deepest lakes.
With snow skiing in winter and pure summer fun around the lake in summer, Lake Tahoe is an all-year holiday destination. It certainly is a must-go for snow skiers, with plenty of ski villages right on your doorstep. That is, besides the scenic and majestic Heavenly mountains in Tahoe.
We’re taking a little detour to Brazil for this one. Back in the early 20th century, the Cachaça spirit was all the rage. It’s a sugarcane-based liquor with a kick that can make your taste buds sing. Now, legend has it that hardworking Brazilian farmers, known as “caipiras,” would take a break from their toils in the fields and seek refreshment. They would mix their beloved Cachaça with lime, sugar, and crushed ice, creating a zesty and revitalizing drink that would put a smile on anyone’s face. It didn’t take long for this humble concoction to make its way into the bustling cities and beachside bars, gaining popularity as the go-to drink for parties and celebrations. Fast forward to today, and the Caipirinha has become a symbol of Brazilian culture, with its vibrant flavors and lively spirit capturing the essence of this colorful country. So, raise your glass high and toast to the hardworking caipiras who unknowingly created a Brazilian masterpiece. Saúde!
Picture it… It’s the 1980s, and the city that never sleeps, New York City, is buzzing with energy. In the heart of the Big Apple, a trendy bar called The Odeon was the place to see and be seen. It was here that a brilliant bartender named Toby Cecchini took the art of mixology to new heights. Looking to craft a drink that exuded sophistication and elegance, Toby combined vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, and a squeeze of fresh lime. He shook it up with ice, strained it into a martini glass, and garnished it with a vibrant twist of orange. The result? A stunningly pink cocktail that was as stylish as the fashionable crowd it served. Word of this chic libation spread like wildfire, and soon the cosmopolitan became the drink of choice for the cosmopolitan elite, making its way into the popular TV series “Sex and the City.” So, when you sip on a cosmopolitan, you’re not just enjoying a delightful blend of flavors; you’re sipping on a piece of New York City’s glamorous history. Cheers to Toby Cecchini and the drink that continues to capture the essence of cosmopolitan charm!
There’s always time for cocktails.
Controversy about the Cosmopolitan Cocktail’s origin…
Bartender Neal Murray says he created the Cosmopolitan in 1975 at the Cork & Cleaver steak house in Minneapolis. According to Murray, he added a splash of cranberry juice to a Kamikaze and the first taster declared, “How cosmopolitan.” This event supposedly led to the naming of the new beverage. – Wikipedia
Picture it… It’s the late 19th century, and the sun-soaked island of Cuba is ablaze with revolution and excitement. In the midst of this fervor, a group of American soldiers found themselves in Havana, looking for some refreshment after a long day. Eager to celebrate their victory, they ordered a round of Coca-Cola, which had just made its way to Cuba. To kick it up a notch, they added a splash of Cuba’s finest rum and a generous squeeze of fresh lime. As the glasses clinked and the tangy concoction touched their lips, a soldier raised his glass and shouted, “Por Cuba libre!”—which translates to “For a free Cuba!” The sentiment stuck, and the Cuba Libre was born, representing the freedom, spirit, and flavors of this vibrant nation.
There’s always time for cocktails.
When I hear the word Martini I find myself smiling with a picture of Jane Fonda sipping on a dry Martini in the Netflix series, Grace and Frankie!
Truth to be told, no one really knows the history of the Martini cocktail. That said, the residents of Martinez are convinced it’s named after a bartender who invented the cocktail in their town. We’ll stick to that. It sounds authentic enough! Besides, I don’t think Grace is particularly worried about where her Martini originates from!
Last but not least, of course, James Bond. A Telegraph article put it like this: He drinks a martini that is six parts vodka, one part vermouth, and served – on this occasion by Solitaire – from a cocktail shaker. Four years later, in the Dr. No novel, Bond orders “a medium Vodka dry Martini – with a slice of lemon peel. Shaken and not stirred, please. I would prefer Russian or Polish vodka.”
Now let’s chat about the espresso martini, aka the vodka espresso! It’s like a shot of caffeinated awesomeness mixed with a boozy twist. So here’s the deal: to whip up this liquid delight, you’ll need some smooth espresso, a splash of coffee liqueur, and a generous pour of vodka. Now, hold up, it’s time for a little clarification—while it’s called a martini, it’s not a “true” martini because it’s missing the gin and vermouth combo. But hey, that doesn’t stop it from being one heck of a cocktail! The espresso martini is just one of those drinks that decided to throw the word “martini” into its name, joining the ranks of other creative concoctions. Trust me, one sip of this bold and invigorating elixir, and you’ll understand why it’s become a beloved favorite among coffee lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. Cheers to a buzz that’ll keep you awake and dancing all night long!
A party without champagne is just a meeting.
The intriguing story behind the creation of the fabulous French 75 cocktail goes back to the era of World War I, a time when French soldiers needed a little pick-me-up to lift their spirits during the war.
Picture it… We’re in 1915, and the setting is Paris. The famous Harry’s New York Bar, a popular spot among the city’s socialites and expatriates, is bustling with activity. Enter a dashing American soldier named Corporal Buck, stationed in France and seeking some good old-fashioned relaxation. He strikes up a conversation with bartender Harry MacElhone and shares his desire for a drink that combines the elegance of champagne with the kick of something stronger.
Harry, being the creative genius that he is, starts experimenting with different concoctions. He decides to mix gin, lemon juice, and sugar syrup, creating a zesty and refreshing base. But there’s still something missing. That’s when inspiration strikes. Harry grabs a bottle of champagne and tops off the cocktail, giving it the effervescent touch it needed.
With his artistic masterpiece complete, Harry presents the drink to Corporal Buck, who takes one sip and is immediately smitten. It’s said that he exclaimed, “That’s a real French 75!”—referring to the powerful French 75mm field gun used during the war. The cocktail had the same impact on him as the artillery had on the battlefield.
Word of this fantastic creation spreads like wildfire. Parisians and American soldiers alike flock to Harry’s bar to experience the magic of the French 75. Its popularity soars, and soon it becomes a symbol of sophistication and celebration.
Nowadays, you can find the French 75 on the menus of bars and restaurants worldwide. It’s a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. With its sparkling bubbles, tangy citrus notes, and boozy undertones, it continues to bring joy and merriment to those who indulge in its delightful flavors.
So, the next time you raise a glass of French 75, remember the story behind it—the creative spark of Harry, the American soldier who inspired it, and the resilience and spirit of the people during a challenging time in history. Cheers to the French 75, a true testament to the art of mixology and the power of a well-crafted cocktail!
Picture it… it’s the 1940s, and the world is caught up in the chaos of World War II. Meanwhile, in Japan, a group of daring aviators known as the Kamikaze pilots were making waves with their fearless missions. Fast forward to the 1970s, and a whole different kind of thrill-seeking was happening at a trendy bar in California. Bartenders, seeking to create a powerful and electrifying drink, crafted a mixture of vodka, triple sec, and lime juice. As the concoction hit the lips of the brave souls ready to experience a flavor explosion, they felt an invigorating rush akin to the kamikaze pilots themselves. Inspired by the intense and fearless nature of those wartime heroes, the Kamikaze cocktail was christened. With its strong, citrusy punch and a touch of sweetness, it quickly became a favorite among party-goers looking for an adrenaline boost in a glass.
Picture… it’s a sultry summer day in Havana, Cuba, sometime in the early 20th century. The streets are alive with vibrant colors, salsa rhythms, and the clinking of glasses. In the midst of this lively atmosphere, a concoction was born that would forever charm our taste buds. Legend has it that a group of sugar cane farmers, seeking respite from the scorching heat, stumbled upon the perfect marriage of ingredients. They mixed together the local treasures of rum, fresh lime juice, sugar, sparkling water, and a generous bunch of fragrant mint leaves plucked straight from the garden. As the cool liquid caressed their lips, a sensation of pure bliss washed over them, and the Mojito was christened. From that day forward, this invigorating elixir became a beloved symbol of Cuban hospitality, spreading its refreshing charm to all corners of the world. So, next time you sip a Mojito, remember the humble origins of this delightful cocktail and toast to the spirit of Havana!
@travelandhome @travelandhome #Mojito #recipes #welove #foryou #foolproof #easyrecipes #easyrecipesathome #travelandhome #recipe #fy#mojitotime #mojitos #cocktail #cocktailsimple #cocktails #mixology #cocktaillover #cocktailtime #cocktailporn #cocktailhour #cocktailoftheday #drinkstagram #craftcocktails #bartenderlife #cocktailrecipe #cocktailbar #cocktailculture #cocktailparty #cocktailshaker #cocktailsofinstagram #cocktailart #cocktailinspiration #cocktailoclock #cocktaillove #cocktailgram #cocktailpornography #cocktailphotography #drinkup #drinkporn #drinkoftheday #drinkspecials #drinksmenu #drinkinspiration #drinkstagrammer #drinkresponsibly #drinklocal #drinksonme #drinkswithfriends #drinkphotography #mixologist #drinkenthusiast #drinkappreciation #drinkculture #drinkgood #drinkhappy #drinkwell #drinkmore #drinkupbuttercup #drinkbeautifully #drinkbetter #drinkdelicious #drinkdreams #drinkindulgence #drinkinspired ♬ original sound - Travel and Home
Legend has it that in the 1970s, in a small, unassuming bar on Long Island, a group of daring bartenders embarked on a mission to create the ultimate concoction that would knock patrons’ socks off. They threw caution to the wind and decided to mix together a mind-boggling combination of white rum, vodka, tequila, gin, triple sec, lemon juice, and a splash of cola. The result? A deceptively innocent-looking drink that packed a mighty punch. Its striking resemblance to a glass of iced tea earned it the cheeky name “Long Island Iced Tea.” With a blend of spirits so potent, it seemed to have the power to transport you to the shores of tipsiness with just a few sips. Rumor has it that the bartenders even disguised it as a harmless iced tea to avoid attracting any unwanted attention during prohibition times. Since then, this audacious elixir has become a legend in its own right, notorious for its ability to sneak up on you and leave you feeling like you’ve taken a plunge into the deep end of the cocktail pool.
Tequila is cheaper than therapy.
Legend has it that this tantalizing elixir was born in the 1940s at the hands of a charismatic tiki bar pioneer named Trader Vic. Picture yourself lounging on a sandy beach, Trader Vic himself behind the bar, with a mischievous grin and a glint in his eye. Seeking to create the ultimate tropical libation, he mixed together a harmonious blend of aged rum, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, and a splash of lime juice. As he took a sip, he exclaimed, “Mai Tai-Roa Ae!” which translates to “Out of this world! The best!” It was a divine moment of inspiration, and the Mai Tai was born. Word of this heavenly potion spread like wildfire, and soon it became the drink du jour for those seeking an exotic taste of paradise. With its intoxicating flavors and a garnish of fresh fruit and a colorful umbrella, the Mai Tai has become an icon of Polynesian-inspired indulgence.
Picture it… Sunny Mexico in the 1930s where the vibrant spirit of fiestas and tequila flows like a river. Now, there are a few theories swirling around about Margarita’s origin, so let’s explore a popular one. Legend has it that in Tijuana, a charming lady named Margarita Sames hosted lavish parties where tequila was the life of the fiesta. One day, feeling adventurous, she decided to mix tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, creating a refreshing concoction that danced on the taste buds. As her guests took their first sip, their eyes widened with delight, and they exclaimed, “Margarita!”—the Spanish version of her name. Word of this zesty elixir spread like wildfire, and the Margarita became an instant hit, eventually finding its way across the border to the United States. From there, it gained international fame, evolving into a versatile cocktail with endless variations, from classic salt-rimmed glasses to fruity frozen delights.
Picture it… American South in the 18th century with grand mansions, wide-brimmed hats, and horse races that set hearts pounding. It is in this picturesque setting that the Mint Julep found its roots. The combination of bourbon, sugar, water, and fresh mint leaves became a go-to concoction for gentlemen seeking respite from the scorching heat. Legend has it that the drink was born out of necessity, as bourbon whiskey served in silver or pewter cups was the perfect solution to keep the beverage icy cold in the sweltering Southern summers. As the tradition of the Kentucky Derby took hold in the 19th century, the Mint Julep solidified its status as the official drink of the iconic race. With every sip of this mint-infused elixir, you can almost taste the rich history and Southern hospitality that has made the Mint Julep an enduring symbol of charm and indulgence.
It all starts in the 19th century when grape brandy called Pisco was flowing through the veins of Peruvian culture. Now, the story goes that in the 1920s, in the vibrant city of Lima, a talented bartender named Victor Morris was tinkering behind the bar, concocting a masterpiece that would forever change the cocktail scene. He blended Pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and a touch of egg white to create a harmonious balance of tartness and sweetness. With a flourish, he added a few dashes of Angostura bitters on top, transforming the cocktail into a visually stunning work of art. As the first sip touched the lips of the adventurous souls, they were instantly captivated by the creamy texture, zesty punch, and underlying warmth of the Pisco. The cocktail quickly gained popularity, becoming an emblematic drink of Peru’s cultural heritage. From Lima to the world, the Pisco Sour is now celebrated and enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts seeking a taste of Peru’s vibrant spirit.
Legend has it that in the 1950s, on the enchanting island of Puerto Rico, a talented bartender by the name of Ramon Marrero was on a mission to create the perfect tropical libation. As he mixed and mingled flavors behind the bar at the Caribe Hilton Hotel in San Juan, he combined rich, creamy coconut cream, fresh pineapple juice, and a generous pour of Puerto Rican rum. With a vigorous shake and a splash of pineapple wedge garnish, the piña colada was born—a true taste of paradise in a glass. Its velvety texture, luscious sweetness, and the harmonious marriage of coconut and pineapple flavors quickly made it a hit among tourists and locals alike. The piña colada soon became the iconic symbol of Puerto Rico’s vibrant culture, capturing the essence of leisurely island living. So, when you take a sip of this tropical elixir, close your eyes and imagine swaying palm trees, soft sand beneath your toes, and the gentle ocean breeze.
Rupert Holmes’, Escape (The Piña Colada Song) was used in many movies, and is an old-time classic!
Picture it… The 1950s, a time when ocean breezes and nautical adventures were all the rage. In the midst of this seafaring era, a brilliant bartender with a love for all things maritime set out to create a drink that would capture the essence of the ocean in a glass. Combining the sharp bite of vodka or gin with the briny tang of grapefruit juice, he crafted a cocktail that perfectly captured the balance between refreshing and invigorating. To pay homage to the sea, he rimmed the glass with a sprinkle of salt, reminiscent of the misty spray that graces the deck of a ship. As the Salty Dog made its debut, it quickly gained popularity among sailors, beachgoers, and cocktail aficionados alike, becoming a true maritime classic.
Picture it… The 1940s and the world is buzzing with excitement and post-war energy. In the land of eternal possibilities, the United States, a fascinating drink was being concocted. Legend has it that American oil workers in the Persian Gulf had a clever way of enjoying their cocktails even when tools were scarce. They ingeniously used their trusty screwdrivers to stir together a simple combination of vodka and orange juice. Voila! The Screwdriver was born, blending the smoothness of vodka with the vibrant zest of freshly squeezed orange juice. It wasn’t long before this handy drink made its way back to the States, where it became a hit in bars and households alike. Its popularity skyrocketed, and soon it was the go-to drink for those seeking a refreshing and uncomplicated libation.
Democratic party, the Republican party, Cocktail party.
Picture it… The tropical paradise of Cuba, back in the early 20th century, where the sun-kissed shores and rhythmic beats of salsa set the stage for this fruity delight. Legend has it that in the 1930s, a charismatic bartender named Constantino Ribalaigua, who ran the famous El Floridita bar in Havana, was inspired to put a delightful twist on the classic Daiquiri. Armed with his creativity and an abundance of fresh, juicy strawberries, he decided to blend them with the traditional ingredients of rum, lime juice, and a touch of sugar. The result? A vibrant and refreshing elixir that perfectly captured the essence of Cuba’s tropical flavors. As the Strawberry Daiquiri danced on the taste buds of locals and travelers alike, it quickly became an instant sensation, spreading its fame beyond the shores of Cuba. Today, the Strawberry Daiquiri stands tall as a symbol of summertime indulgence and a go-to cocktail for those seeking a delightful blend of sweetness and tanginess.
Pour all of the ingredients into a cocktail shaker over ice and shake gently. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and enjoy.
It’s beginning to look a lot like cocktails.
If you’ve loved the cocktails thus far, you’re going to also love our feature on Tequila Sunrise cocktails.
Furthermore, Travel-and-Home was in the Mexican town of Tequila, the home of tequila in Mexico. For a real tequila adventure, and sleeping in a tequila barrel, check out our post: Tequila Adventure.
Picture it… Yourself lounging on a sunny beach, with a gentle breeze rustling through palm trees, and the sound of waves crashing in the distance. Now, let’s travel to the vibrant island of Cuba, where the Mojito reigns supreme. It is here, amidst the sizzling salsa beats and the lively streets of Havana, that the idea of infusing the classic Mojito with strawberries took hold. As bartenders sought to elevate the beloved cocktail, they introduced fresh strawberries into the mix, adding a burst of fruity sweetness to the traditional combination of rum, mint, lime, and soda water. The result? A vibrant, summery twist that danced on the taste buds, delivering a perfect harmony of flavors. Word of this delicious concoction spread like wildfire, and soon the Strawberry Mojito became a sensation, enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.
Picture it… It’s the 19th century, and you find yourself in the bustling saloons of the Wild West, where cowboys and outlaws sought refuge from the dust and heat. As the story goes, weary travelers and spirited locals alike sought a libation that could balance the robustness of whiskey with a touch of tangy refreshment. And so, the Whiskey Sour was born. Combining the smoothness of whiskey, the tartness of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and just a hint of sweetness from sugar, this cocktail became the perfect companion for those seeking a respite from the ruggedness of the frontier. Its simplicity and robust flavors quickly won over hearts and palates, spreading its popularity like wildfire. From saloons to speakeasies, the Whiskey Sour became a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time.
As I conclude our cocktail journey, let’s raise a glass to the art of mixing cocktails. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a curious enthusiast, the world of cocktails offers a kaleidoscope of flavors, stories, and experiences. It’s a realm where creativity knows no bounds, where spirits and ingredients dance together in harmony, and where every sip holds the potential for magic. From the classic concoctions that have stood the test of time to the innovative creations that push the boundaries of flavor, the art of mixing cocktails invites us to explore, experiment, and indulge. So, the next time you find yourself behind the bar or savoring a well-crafted cocktail in a cozy lounge, remember that you are part of a rich tradition, an ever-evolving craft that connects people, cultures, and moments of joy. Cheers to the magic of mixology, where every drink is a canvas and every sip tells a story. May your adventures in the world of cocktails be filled with endless delight and unforgettable moments. Cheers, and keep mixing!
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