📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Whisky
Alcohol 22%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 8g
Prep time 4 minutes
Embarking on the journey to craft the perfect Up to Date is like stepping into a world of delicate balance and sophisticated flavors. This cocktail is a symphony of whiskey, vermouth, and a hint of citrus, tied together with a sweet whisper of Grand Marnier. As we explore its history, taste, and the art of its creation, let’s raise a glass and dive into the story of the Up to Date. ⬇️
History
The Up to Date cocktail hails from the early 20th century, a relic of the golden age of cocktails. It represents the ingenuity of bartenders from a bygone era, seamlessly blending strong spirits with nuanced flavors. Its timelessness echoes through bars across the world today.
- The name ‘Up to Date’ is believed to reflect the modernity and sophistication of the cocktail during the time of its creation.
- It was first chronicled in the iconic cocktail book “Recipes for Mixed Drinks” by Hugo Ensslin, published in 1916.
- The drink’s popularity soared during the roaring ’20s, embodying the era’s spirit of extravagance and innovation.
The taste of a Up to Date?
An Up to Date cocktail is a harmonious blend of warm, oaky whiskey notes and the herbal complexity of vermouth. Hints of orange and the subtle sweetness of Grand Marnier complete its rich, yet balanced profile.
I adore the Up to Date cocktail for its classic elegance and its ability to transport one back to an era of speakeasies and jazz with just a sip.
Interesting facts about Up to Date
- Despite its early 20th-century origins, the Up to Date remains a staple in modern craft cocktail menus around the globe.
- The cocktail’s simplicity in ingredients belies the complex dance of flavors experienced upon the first taste.
- It is often regarded as a precursor to the more widely known Manhattan, sharing a similar whiskey and vermouth foundation.
Ingredients 📃
- Whiskey: 2 oz (60ml)
- Sweet Vermouth: 1 oz (30ml)
- Grand Marnier: 1/4 oz (7.5ml)
- Angostura Bitters: 2 dashes
- Lemon Peel: for garnish
The Old Fashioned glass is the quintessential vessel for an Up to Date, its wide brim allowing the aromas to tantalize the senses before the first sip. Alternatively, a Coupe glass can offer an air of vintage sophistication while still enhancing the drink’s aromatic profile.
Recipe. How to make Up to Date 🍹
- Combine 2 oz of whiskey, 1 oz of sweet vermouth, 1/4 oz of Grand Marnier, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters in a mixing glass.
- Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled, about 30 seconds.
- Strain into an Old Fashioned glass over fresh ice and garnish with a twist of lemon peel.
While the Up to Date is a delight, it is also a treat that comes with a sugary note. For a healthier twist, consider using a natural sweetener or reducing the amount of Grand Marnier. Each ingredient plays its part in the cocktail’s allure, but moderation remains key.
Food Pairings
The Up to Date is a versatile cocktail that pairs brilliantly with a variety of foods, enhancing the dining experience. Its complexity can complement rich flavors and stand up to hearty dishes.
Charcuterie
The robust flavors of whiskey and vermouth in an Up to Date cut through the richness of cured meats and bold cheeses, making it an excellent choice for a charcuterie board.
Grilled Steak
A succulent grilled steak with its charred exterior and tender interior finds its match in the Up to Date’s depth and warmth, echoing the smokiness and complementing the umami flavors.
Dark Chocolate Desserts
The subtle sweetness of the Up to Date, paired with its complex whiskey profile, can elevate the experience of indulging in dark chocolate desserts, creating a sophisticated finish to any meal.
The Up to Date’s dance of whiskey warmth with a citrusy shimmer makes it an irresistible concoction for me; it’s like a warm blanket on a chilly evening.
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Bartender Advice
- Always use fresh ice when stirring your cocktail to ensure a crisp, cold drink without unnecessary dilution.
- The quality of whiskey in an Up to Date can make or break the drink, so opt for a well-crafted rye or bourbon for the best experience.
- A proper twist of lemon peel expressed over the drink adds a burst of citrus oils that perfectly balances the cocktail’s flavors.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Up to Date, 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 Up to Date
- Whiskey: Opt for a smoky Scotch to introduce a new layer of depth to the Up to Date.
- Sweet Vermouth: A dry vermouth can be used for a less sweet, more astringent profile.
- Grand Marnier: Consider substituting with other orange liqueurs like Cointreau for a different nuance of citrus.
Up to Date Variations
Smoky Date
- Ingredients: Substitute the whiskey with peated Scotch and add a splash of maple syrup.
- Recipe: Follow the standard Up to Date recipe, adding the maple syrup with the other ingredients before stirring.
Modern Date
- Ingredients: Use bourbon instead of rye and a dash of chocolate bitters.
- Recipe: Mix as usual and garnish with a brandied cherry for a contemporary twist.
Citrus Date
- Ingredients: Add a splash of fresh orange juice and replace Grand Marnier with triple sec.
- Recipe: Shake the ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass for a zesty variation.
For those who prefer to skip the alcohol, a Virgin Up to Date can be just as satisfying. Mix together a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative, a splash of non-alcoholic vermouth, and a drop of orange bitters, then garnish with lemon.
Q&A
What’s the best time of year to enjoy an Up to Date?
While an Up to Date is timeless, its warming qualities make it especially delightful during the cooler months. Yet, don’t hesitate to savor it as a refreshing nightcap on a summer evening under the stars.
Can I make a large batch of Up to Date for a party?
Absolutely! Mix the ingredients in a pitcher, multiplying the amounts by the number of expected servings. Just remember to add the bitters and garnishes as you serve.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Up to Date?
Indeed, you can create a non-alcoholic version using spirit-free whiskey and vermouth alternatives, along with a dash of orange bitters for that signature flavor.
What’s the key to a perfectly balanced Up to Date?
The secret lies in the quality of ingredients and precise measurements. Use a jigger for accuracy, and opt for high-quality spirits and fresh garnishes.
How long does it take to make an Up to Date?
Crafting an Up to Date is a swift affair; you can stir up this classic in just a couple of minutes, leaving you more time to engage with your guests or savor the moment.
Can I use any type of whiskey for an Up to Date?
While you can use different types of whiskey, a rye or bourbon is traditionally recommended for their balance of sweetness and spice that complements the other ingredients.
