Cocktail
Twentieth Century
How to make a Twentieth Century - the refined gin cocktail with Lillet Blanc, cacao liqueur and lemon. An elegant 1930s classic with a surprising chocolate note.
5 minPrep time
mediumDifficulty
CoupeGlass
1Serving(s)
The Twentieth Century is an elegant cocktail from the 1930s, named after a legendary American luxury train. The unusual combination of gin, Lillet Blanc, white cacao liqueur and lemon creates a fruity, fresh drink with a subtle chocolate note. A refined classic that still surprises today.
Instructions
- Put gin, Lillet Blanc, white cacao liqueur and lemon juice into a shaker.
- Fill the shaker generously with ice cubes.
- Shake vigorously for about 12 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a pre-chilled coupe.
- Garnish with a lemon zest.
Garnish: Lemon zest
Pro tip: Be sure to use white cacao liqueur - the brown version would cloud the pale drink and make it too sweet.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Twentieth Century get its name?
The cocktail was named in 1937 after the famous luxury train Twentieth Century Limited, which ran between New York and Chicago.
Does the drink really taste of chocolate?
The white cacao liqueur gives a subtle, creamy chocolate note that combines surprisingly well with the freshness of gin and lemon.
Can I replace the Lillet Blanc?
A dry white vermouth works as a substitute, but then the fine fruity sweetness of the Lillet is missing.
Ingredients
- Gin4.5 cl
- Lillet Blanc2.25 cl
- White cacao liqueur (creme de cacao)1.5 cl
- Fresh lemon juice2.25 cl
- Ice cubesas needed
