Cocktail
Japanese Cocktail
How to make a Japanese Cocktail - one of the oldest cocktails of all, made from cognac, orgeat and bitters. Nutty, elegant and historic.
5 minPrep time
easyDifficulty
CoupeGlass
1Serving(s)
The Japanese Cocktail is a piece of cocktail history: documented as early as 1862 by Jerry Thomas, it is one of the oldest mixed drinks of all. Cognac, almond syrup and Angostura make an elegantly nutty, spirit-forward, rounded drink of timeless simplicity.
Instructions
- Add the cognac, orgeat and Angostura bitters to a mixing glass.
- Top up with plenty of ice cubes.
- Stir cold for about 20 seconds.
- Strain into a prechilled coupe.
- Express a lemon zest over the glass and drop it in.
Garnish: Lemon zest
Pro tip: Orgeat is an almond syrup that gives the drink its nutty sweetness. Look for a high-quality orgeat, as it significantly shapes the flavour.
Frequently asked questions
What is so special about the Japanese Cocktail?
It is considered one of the oldest documented cocktails and appeared as early as 1862 in Jerry Thomas' legendary bar book.
Does the Japanese Cocktail contain Japanese alcohol?
No, despite the name it contains cognac. The name probably refers to the visit of a Japanese delegation to New York.
What is orgeat?
Orgeat is a sweet syrup made from almonds, sugar and a little orange blossom or rose water.
Ingredients
- Cognac6 cl
- Orgeat (almond syrup)1.5 cl
- Angostura Bitters2 dashes
- Lemon zest1 piece
- Ice cubesas needed
