Princeton Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 15%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 4g
Prep time 4 minutes

Embarking on a discovery of the perfect Princeton cocktail is akin to a refreshing dip on a hot summer day. This storied drink combines the rich warmth of Old Tom Gin with the bright notes of port, delivering a sip of history in every glass. Let’s unravel the layers of the Princeton together as we explore its origins, flavors, and the artistry behind its creation. ⬇️

History

The Princeton cocktail is a classic American drink that dates back to the late 19th century. It was first stirred up at Princeton University, where it quickly became a favorite among students and professors alike. Named after the prestigious Ivy League school, this cocktail carries a legacy as rich as its flavor.

• The cocktail is believed to have been first mixed at an iconic tavern near Princeton University.
• Famous literary figures of the era were known to enjoy a Princeton or two.
• The Princeton cocktail became a symbol of collegiate sophistication in the 1800s.

The taste of a Princeton?

The Princeton cocktail dances on the palate with a harmonious blend of herbal gin and the subtle sweetness of port. Its flavor is an elegant balance, with a touch of citrus adding a bright finish to this storied sip.

I personally find the Princeton to be a captivating drink, its depth of flavor offering a delightful escape, like turning the pages of a riveting historical novel.

Interesting facts about Princeton

• The original recipe called for a lemon twist, a detail that some modern variations overlook.
• Despite its association with American academia, the drink’s popularity has spread far beyond the campus.
• The Princeton is sometimes referred to as the ‘Ivy Leaguer’s cocktail’ due to its intellectual roots.

Ingredients 📃

• Old Tom Gin: 2 oz (60ml)
• Port: 1 oz (30ml)
• Lemon Twist: for garnish

Chilled cocktail glass is the vessel of choice for a Princeton, elevating its sophisticated profile and allowing the aromas to mingle perfectly. If unavailable, a martini glass serves as a fine substitute, still honoring the drink’s elegance.

Recipe. How to make Princeton 🍹

1. Pour 2 oz of chilled Old Tom Gin into the glass.
2. Add 1 oz of port delicately over the back of a spoon to create layers.
3. Garnish with a lemon twist.

While the Princeton cocktail is a treat, it’s important to remember it contains alcohol and calories. For a healthier twist, opt for natural sweeteners or less sugar, and enjoy in moderation to keep things balanced.

Food Pairings

Certain dishes can enhance the experience of sipping on a Princeton. The right pairing can accentuate the cocktail’s flavors, making for a truly memorable meal.

Cheese Platter

The richness of aged cheeses complements the warm notes of Old Tom Gin, while the sweetness of port contrasts nicely with the savory flavors.

Roasted Nuts

Roasted nuts, with their earthy, deep flavors, provide a lovely textural contrast and enhance the botanicals of the gin.

Dark Chocolate

A piece of dark chocolate can highlight the subtle sweetness of the port in the Princeton, leading to an indulgent taste sensation.

I really like Princetons; they’re like a cozy blanket on a brisk autumn evening, with their deep flavors hugging your senses.

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Bartender Advice

• Always use fresh lemon for the twist to ensure a bright, zesty garnish.
• Chilling the cocktail glass beforehand will keep your Princeton perfectly cool.
• Layering the port with care is essential for the signature presentation of the cocktail.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Princeton, 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 Princeton

• Old Tom Gin: Can be swapped with London Dry Gin for a sharper taste.
• Port: Experiment with different varieties like Ruby or Tawny to tweak the sweetness.
• Garnish: Switch the lemon twist for an orange one to add a different citrus note.

Princeton Variations

Autumn Princeton

• Ingredients: Substitute port with apple cider and add a dash of cinnamon.
• Recipe: Mix the gin and cider, then top with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a seasonal twist.

Tropical Princeton

• Ingredients: Add a splash of coconut water and a pineapple garnish.
• Recipe: Combine gin and port as usual, then add coconut water and garnish with pineapple.

Berry Princeton

• Ingredients: Muddle fresh berries before adding the gin and port.
• Recipe: Muddle berries at the bottom, pour in the gin and port, and stir gently.

For a non-alcoholic version, replace the gin with sparkling grape juice and the port with a splash of cranberry juice. Garnish with a lemon twist for that Princeton charm.

Q&A

Can I make a Princeton in advance?

Sure, you can mix the Old Tom Gin and port ahead of time, but always add the garnish fresh when serving.

Is Old Tom Gin essential for a Princeton?

Old Tom Gin offers a unique sweetness, but you can experiment with other gins to find your preferred taste.

What’s the best port to use for a Princeton?

A good-quality Ruby or Tawny port will do the trick, offering a balance of sweetness and complexity.

How do I achieve the layered effect?

Pour the port slowly over the back of a spoon to gently layer it atop the gin without mixing.

Are there any non-alcoholic Princeton options?

Absolutely, swap in non-alcoholic alternatives like sparkling grape juice and cranberry juice for a sober version.

What food pairs well with a Princeton?

Try a cheese platter, roasted nuts, or even a slice of dark chocolate to complement your drink.