Income Tax Cocktail Recipe
Classic cocktails often bring to mind familiar names, but the Income Tax Cocktail, with its Prohibition-era origins, offers a fascinating twist.
Combining gin, sweet and dry vermouth, fresh orange juice, and a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters, this drink achieves a complex yet refreshing profile.
The blend of flavors tells a story of an era and elevates any sophisticated gathering with its unique character.
Prohibition Era Origins
During the Prohibition era, the Income Tax cocktail emerged as a clever way to mask the harsh taste of bootlegged spirits. People were quite innovative during this time, given the strict laws against alcohol. Speakeasies became the go-to places for clandestine drinking, and bartenders had to get creative to make the crude, often poorly distilled alcohol palatable.
The name "Income Tax" itself is a bit of a mystery, but some believe it was a playful jab at the government’s financial policies. Prohibition didn’t just curb alcohol consumption; it also led to a significant drop in tax revenue from alcohol sales. By naming the cocktail after something as dreaded as income tax, bartenders might’ve been expressing their frustration with the law.
Bartenders turned necessity into an art form. The Income Tax cocktail, with its unique blend of flavors, provided a smoother drinking experience. It highlighted the ingenuity and resilience of people who refused to let Prohibition dampen their spirits—literally and figuratively.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces gin
- 3/4 ounce sweet vermouth
- 3/4 ounce dry vermouth
- 1/4 ounce fresh orange juice
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange twist (for garnish)
Instructions
After collecting all your ingredients, fill a mixing glass with ice to chill your cocktail as you mix it.
Add the following to the mixing glass:
- 2 ounces of gin
- 1/4 ounce of dry vermouth
- 1/4 ounce of sweet vermouth
- 1/4 ounce of fresh orange juice
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly to blend all the flavors without overly diluting the drink.
Aim for 20 to 30 seconds of stirring, using a bar spoon to keep the motion smooth and consistent.
Place a strainer over the mixing glass and pour the liquid into a chilled cocktail glass, leaving the ice behind.
Pour slowly to avoid any splashes.
Take a moment to admire your work.
Notice the beautiful amber color and the enticing aroma.
Your Income Tax Cocktail is now ready for the finishing touches.
Clean your tools and workspace as you go to make it easier to enjoy your drink without any hassle.
Garnishing and Serving Suggestions
A well-garnished Income Tax Cocktail enhances its visual appeal and adds an extra layer of flavor. To make your cocktail stand out, consider various garnishing options that complement the drink’s unique taste profile. A classic choice is a twist of lemon peel, which provides a burst of citrus aroma. You can also opt for an orange slice or a cherry for added color and sweetness.
Here’s a quick guide to garnishing and serving your Income Tax Cocktail:
| Garnish | Flavor Profile | Visual Appeal |
|---|---|---|
| Lemon Twist | Bright, Citrusy | Elegant, Clean |
| Orange Slice | Sweet, Citrusy | Vibrant, Fresh |
| Cherry | Sweet, Fruity | Classic, Colorful |
| Mint Sprig | Refreshing, Herbal | Lush, Green |
Serve your cocktail in a chilled coupe or martini glass to maintain its temperature and enhance the drinking experience. Rim the glass with a bit of sugar for an added touch of sweetness. Use a cocktail pick for the cherry or orange slice to keep things tidy and easy to handle.
Final Thoughts
With garnish and serving suggestions in place, let’s wrap things up with some final thoughts on the Income Tax Cocktail. This classic drink, with its intriguing blend of gin, sweet vermouth, dry vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of Angostura bitters, offers a sophisticated taste that stands the test of time.
It’s a versatile cocktail, perfect for both casual get-togethers and more formal occasions. As you mix your Income Tax Cocktail, remember that quality ingredients make a difference. Opt for a good gin and fresh orange juice to elevate the flavors.
Don’t rush the preparation—taking the time to measure and mix carefully ensures a well-balanced drink that’s sure to impress. Also, consider the context in which you’re serving it.
While it’s a fantastic drink any time of year, its citrus notes make it particularly refreshing in warmer months. Serve it in a chilled glass to keep it cool longer and enhance the overall experience.
