Old Pal cocktail – recipe and guide
The Old Pal cocktail is a combination of equal parts rye whiskey, dry vermouth, and Campari, similar to the Boulevardier (rye or bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth). A wonderful drink and an excellent way to showcase good rye.
If you wonder who to thank for these cocktails, Harry MacElhone, of “Harry’s New York Bar” in Paris, is the one responsible for both drinks.
As the story goes, MacElhone invented the drink in the 1920s and named it after Willian “Sparrow” Robinson, who was a sportswriter and called everyone he met – “Old Pal”.
Even though the classic Old Pal cocktail is equal parts of each ingredient, some modern recipes call for more rye and less vermouth and Campari. The 2:1:1 ratio makes for a stronger, boozier drink. We don’t think that’s necessary and we like it just the way it is. Try it both ways and tell us what you think. 😉
Ingredients and preparation:
- 1 Ounce (30 ml) of rye.
- 1 Ounce (30 ml) of dry vermouth.
- And 1 Ounce (30 ml) of Campari.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
- Add all 3 ingredients into a mixing glass with ice and stir until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon twist.
- Enjoy.
