Saratoga in a coupe with orange zest

Cocktail

Saratoga

How to make a Saratoga - an elegant cocktail classic of cognac, sweet vermouth and Angostura. Spirit-forward, aromatic and stylishly stirred.

5 minPrep time
mediumDifficulty
CoupeGlass
1Serving(s)

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The Saratoga is a distinguished forerunner of the Manhattan: instead of whisky, cognac and sweet vermouth form the aromatic foundation, rounded off with Angostura. A velvety, elegant classic from the golden era of bar culture.

Instructions

  1. Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
  2. Add cognac, sweet vermouth and Angostura bitters.
  3. Stir cold for about 20 seconds.
  4. Strain into a chilled coupe.
  5. Express an orange zest over the glass.
  6. Add the zest as a garnish and serve.

Garnish: Orange zest

Pro tip: Stir the Saratoga long enough so it comes into the glass well chilled and slightly diluted - this softens the sharpness of the cognac.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a Saratoga and a Manhattan?

The Saratoga skips the whisky and is made purely from cognac and vermouth, which makes it taste softer and fruitier.

Which vermouth works best?

A good Italian sweet vermouth harmonizes perfectly with the warm aroma of the cognac.

Is the Saratoga an aperitif or a digestif?

With its full, slightly sweet character it is especially well suited as an after-dinner digestif.

Ingredients

  • Cognac3 cl
  • Sweet vermouth (Vermouth Rosso)3 cl
  • Angostura bitters2 dashes
  • Orange zest1 piece
  • Ice cubesas needed