📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Bourbon
Alcohol 20%
Calories 220 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 15g
Prep time 3 minutes
If you’re looking to mix up a classic Commodore cocktail with a story in every sip, you’ve come to the right place! This drink is a symphony of flavors, blending bourbon’s warmth with fruity and sour notes, creating a delightful dance on the palate. We’ll explore its storied history, the subtleties of its taste, and tips for perfecting your pour, so let’s dive in and discover this spirited concoction together! ⬇️
History
The Commodore cocktail is a timeless classic from the roaring 20s, known for its smooth and sophisticated taste. It emerged during America’s Prohibition era, offering a delicious way to enjoy spirits under the radar. This cocktail carries with it the character of an era defined by its rebellious spirit and the pursuit of pleasure.
- The name ‘Commodore’ is believed to pay homage to the naval rank, reflecting the drink’s strong and commanding presence.
- It was popularized in speakeasies, where the allure of covert indulgence added to its mystique.
- The Commodore’s recipe was first documented in the famed “Savoy Cocktail Book” of 1930, cementing its place in cocktail history.
The taste of a Commodore?
Sipping a Commodore is like enjoying a velvety blend of rich bourbon with a playful tang from fresh lemon juice and a hint of sweetness. The addition of raspberry syrup adds a layer of fruitiness, making each taste a complex yet harmonious experience.
I enjoy the Commodore for its perfect balance of strength and sweetness, reminding me of jazz melodies that are both smooth and vibrant.
Interesting facts about Commodore
- The deep red hue of the Commodore cocktail is often compared to a luxurious velvet, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation.
- Despite its simplicity, the Commodore’s balance of flavors requires a precise hand, mirroring the skill of a seasoned jazz musician.
- As a symbol of the Prohibition era, the Commodore cocktail represents a time of American ingenuity in the face of restriction.
Ingredients
- Bourbon Whiskey: 2 oz (60 ml)
- Fresh lemon juice: ½ oz (15 ml)
- Raspberry syrup: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Egg white: 1 (about 1 oz or 30 ml)
A Commodore shines in a chilled coupe glass, whose wide bowl and stemmed design elevate the drink’s sophistication. The shape of the glass allows the aromas to concentrate, enhancing the sensory experience. An alternative could be a martini glass, which also provides an elegant presentation.
Recipe. How to make Commodore
- Chill a coupe glass in the freezer.
- In a shaker, combine 2 oz of bourbon, ½ oz of fresh lemon juice, 1 oz of raspberry syrup, and 1 egg white.
- Shake the mixture without ice to emulsify the egg white.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well-chilled.
- Strain the concoction into the prepared coupe glass.
Commodores, like any cocktail, come with health considerations such as sugar content from the raspberry syrup and calories from the bourbon. To make a healthier version, consider using a natural sweetener like honey and keep an eye on portion sizes.
Food Pairings
The right food can turn a drink into an exquisite dining experience. Here are some ideal companions for the Commodore’s robust and fruity flavors:
Spicy Barbecue
The Commodore’s sweetness and acidity cut through the richness of barbecue, cleansing the palate between bites of smoky, spicy meats.
Dark Chocolate Desserts
The bold bourbon notes in the Commodore pair delightfully with the bittersweet complexity of dark chocolate, creating a decadent combination.
Cheese Platter
A selection of sharp and creamy cheeses can complement the cocktail’s profile, with the contrasting flavors playing off each other beautifully.
I simply adore the Commodore’s smooth melody of flavors—it’s like a sip of speakeasy elegance that never goes out of style.
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Bartender Advice
- To achieve the perfect froth, give the egg white a dry shake before adding ice to your shaker.
- Using freshly squeezed lemon juice will provide a brighter, more authentic flavor than bottled alternatives.
- Experiment with different brands of bourbon to find the one that best suits your palate for the Commodore.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Commodore, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Commodore
- Raspberry syrup: Try a blackberry syrup for a deeper berry flavor.
- Bourbon: Switch to rye whiskey for a spicier kick.
- Egg white: Use aquafaba for a vegan-friendly froth.
Commodore Variations
Summer Berry Commodore
- Ingredients: Substitute raspberry syrup with mixed berry syrup.
- Recipe: Follow the classic recipe, garnishing with a berry skewer.
Chocolate Commodore
- Ingredients: Add ½ oz of chocolate liqueur to the original ingredients.
- Recipe: Mix as usual and top with a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
Herbal Commodore
- Ingredients: Infuse the bourbon with rosemary or thyme.
- Recipe: Strain the herbs before shaking up the drink as per the original recipe.
For a non-alcoholic version, swap out the bourbon for a non-alcoholic spirit or tea with similar flavor notes. Keep the rest of the ingredients, and you’ll have a delightful ‘Virgin Commodore’ that everyone can enjoy.
Q&A
Can you make a Commodore without egg white?
Certainly! While the egg white adds frothiness, you can omit it or use aquafaba for a similar effect.
What if I can’t find raspberry syrup?
No problem! You can make your own by simmering raspberries with sugar and water or use another fruit syrup.
Is there a certain type of bourbon that works best in a Commodore?
It’s down to personal preference, but a smoother bourbon typically complements the other ingredients nicely.
How can I make my Commodore less sweet?
Simply reduce the amount of syrup or add a touch more lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
Is the Commodore considered a strong drink?
Yes, with the primary ingredient being bourbon, it’s definitely on the stronger side of the cocktail spectrum.
Could the Commodore be served as a party punch?
Absolutely! Multiply the ingredients by the number of guests, mix in a punch bowl, and serve over ice. It’s a party hit!
