As far as inspirations go, places we inhabit have the biggest influence on us. No wonder, some of the most popular cocktails in the world are named after the cities they were created in. Here is a list of 5 such cocktails.
Singapore Sling
The city nation of Singapore is immortalized with this gin based drink. It was created by the bartender, Ngiam Tong Bon, at Raffles Hotel in the early 20thcentury. The original recipe is said to have included, gin, Cherry Heering liqueur, Cointreau, Benedictine, Grenadine and Angostura bitters; quite complicated. Different bars have different recipes but if you want to mix this at home stick to the gin, cherry brandy, Benedictine and Angostura bitters.
Long Island Iced Tea
Named after one of the island that comprises of New York, Long Island Iced Tea by far is one of the most popular drinks in India. This is mostly because of its potency, something which has been both a boon and bane to its reputation. It uses rum, tequila, vodka, gin and triple sec and topped with cola and said to have been created on the island by bartender Robert Butt at Oak Beach Inn.
Manhattan
Manhattan is named after Manhattan Club in New York and was first created to honor Samuel J Tilden then governor of the city. A true Manhattan will always be incomplete without rye whiskey. Similar to a Martini, this drink too uses Vermouth and spiked with bitters. It is stirred and served on ice with a Maraschino cherry as a garnish.
Milano-Torino
This drink is today known as Americano since it became the preferred drink for Americans traveling to Italy during the Prohibition years. It is a simple drink which has Campari, Vermouth and topped with club soda. It was called Milano-Torino because of its two key ingredients – Campari from Milan and Cinzano from Turin. The drink also finds a mention in Ian Fleming’s book Casino Royale.
The Parisian
A twist to the Martini is The Parisian where apart from the gin and vermouth there is crème de casis. Crème de cassis adds the maroon hue to the drink reminding of the femininity the French capital exudes.