📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 22%
Calories 170 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 7g
Prep time 4 minutes
Are you ready to savor the melodious blend of an Opera cocktail, where each sip tells its own story? This drink is a symphony of gin, Dubonnet, and maraschino liqueur, culminating in an aromatic experience with a hint of citrus. Join us as we explore its rich past, distinctive flavors, and the artistry of its creation. ⬇️
History
The Opera cocktail is a classic that dates back to early 20th-century France. It gained popularity among theatergoers and performers alike, becoming a sophisticated prelude to an evening’s entertainment. This concoction is a testament to the timeless allure of Parisian culture.
- The name ‘Opera’ likely alludes to the Paris Opéra House, a hub of cultural and social activity at the time.
- It was first mentioned in cocktail books around the 1900s, hinting at its age-old charisma.
- The drink reflects the elegance and grandeur synonymous with the operatic performances it precedes.
The taste of a Opera?
Imagine a blend of botanical gin with the sweet and bitter notes of Dubonnet, all brightened by a dash of maraschino’s cherry flavor. The Opera is a sophisticated medley that dances on the palate, with a citrus twist that adds a final, zesty flourish.
I find the Opera cocktail to be a captivating drink, its layers of flavor unfolding like a dramatic overture, perfect for sipping slowly and thoughtfully.
Interesting facts about Opera
- The Opera cocktail is often associated with an air of refinement and an appreciation for the finer things in life.
- Its balance of bitterness and sweetness can be seen as an allegory for the dramatic highs and lows found in operatic narratives.
- Despite its storied past, the Opera remains a rare gem, often overshadowed by more mainstream cocktails.
Ingredients
- Gin: 1.5 oz (45ml)
- Dubonnet Rouge: 0.75 oz (22ml)
- Maraschino Liqueur: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Orange Bitters: A dash
- Lemon Twist: For garnish
Martini glass is the vessel of choice for an Opera, its wide brim allowing the aromas to envelop the senses. Alternatively, a coupe glass also serves well, capturing the drink’s essence while lending a vintage charm.
Recipe. How to make Opera
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Pour in 1.5 oz of gin, 0.75 oz of Dubonnet Rouge, and 0.5 oz of maraschino liqueur.
- Add a dash of orange bitters.
- Stir the mixture until well-chilled.
- Strain into a chilled Martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
Opera cocktails can be a bit sugary, but you can make them healthier with natural sweeteners like honey. Plus, gin’s botanicals might offer some digestive benefits, making this indulgence a tad easier on the conscience.
Food Pairings
The Opera cocktail’s rich and complex flavor profile can enhance and complement various culinary delights. Here are some food pairing suggestions that harmonize with its unique characteristics:
Charcuterie
The Opera’s herbal and sweet nuances are a perfect match for a selection of cured meats and artisanal cheeses, creating a sophisticated and indulgent pairing.
Dark Chocolate Desserts
The hint of bitterness in the Opera balances exquisitely with the richness of dark chocolate, offering an elegant and indulgent dessert experience.
Roasted Duck
The savory flavors of roasted duck blend harmoniously with the Opera’s botanical and cherry notes, elevating the dining experience to an art form.
I adore the Opera cocktail’s complexity, its harmonious blend of sweet and bitter echoing the emotional crescendos of a grand operatic performance.
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Bartender Advice
- Always use fresh ice to avoid diluting the cocktail’s robust flavors.
- A proper stir is key for the perfect chill and dilution balance.
- Express the lemon twist over the drink to release the essential oils, adding a fragrant dimension.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Opera, 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 Opera
- Gin: Try different botanical profiles to tweak the cocktail’s core character.
- Dubonnet Rouge: Replace with another aromatized wine for a twist on the traditional taste.
- Maraschino Liqueur: Alter the quantity slightly to play with the sweetness levels.
Opera Variations
Modern Opera
- Ingredients: Substitute Aperol for Dubonnet and add a splash of soda water.
- Recipe: Build over ice in a highball glass and garnish with an orange wheel.
Summer Opera
- Ingredients: Include fresh strawberries and a pinch of black pepper.
- Recipe: Muddle the strawberries and pepper before adding the traditional ingredients.
Winter Opera
- Ingredients: Add a cinnamon stick and star anise for a spiced version.
- Recipe: Stir with the spices and strain into a pre-warmed glass.
For a non-alcoholic ‘Virgin Opera’, swap the gin and liqueur for tonic water and a splash of cherry syrup. Garnish with a maraschino cherry for that signature Opera flourish.
Q&A
Can I make an Opera cocktail ahead of time?
Sure, you can mix the gin, Dubonnet, and maraschino in advance. Just add the bitters and garnish upon serving to keep the flavors vibrant.
What makes an Opera cocktail unique?
It’s that special interplay between the aromatic gin, the complex Dubonnet, and the sweet touch of maraschino that sings with a citrus high note.
Is the Opera cocktail strong?
The Opera has a kick but is balanced by its sweetness, making it as powerful as a soprano’s high C without overwhelming the palate.
How can I adjust the sweetness of my Opera?
Play with the maraschino liqueur amount or try a less sweet gin to find your perfect pitch.
Could I use lemon juice instead of a twist?
A twist is traditional for the aroma, but a few drops of juice could add a new layer of tartness if that’s your aria of choice.
Are there any non-alcoholic substitutes for the Dubonnet Rouge?
You could try non-alcoholic red vermouth or a mix of fruit juices and a little vinegar for a similar depth and complexity.
