Jazz had been a major musical force in America since the 1800s, but it really made its mark on our culture in the 1920s. They didn’t call it “The Jazz Age” for nothing. Today the entire world pays tribute to jazz and the impact it has had on a global level with International Jazz Day. So let’s celebrate, turn on the music and sip on one of these timeless Jazz Age cocktails.
Raspberry Rickey
Gin Rickeys made an appearance in “The Great Gatsby,” but the Raspberry Rickey is a great little twist on this Jazz Age classic.
- Muddle 4 fresh raspberries in the bottom of a highball glass.
- Fill the glass with ice and then add 50 ml Belvedere Black Raspberry Vodka (or any plain premium vodka), 20 ml fresh lime juice, and 1 dash Chambord.
- Top it off with soda water and then stir gently.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
The Sidecar
Sidecars are one of those perfect drinks that have stood the test of time. Though everyone seems to have their own favorite way of making the drink, we haven’t had a bad Sidecar yet.
- In a cocktail shaker filled with cracked ice, add 3/4 oz. Cointreau, 3/4 oz. lemon juice, and 1 1/2 oz. cognac.
- Shake and strain into a chilled cocktail glass that has had its outside rim rubbed with lemon juice and dipped in sugar.
The Aviation
The Aviation is sort of the opposite of the Sidecar in that it’s one of those drinks you either love or hate. But isn’t jazz kind of like that, too?
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add 1/2 oz. gin, 1/2 oz. freshly squeezed lemon juice, 3/4 oz. maraschino liqueur, and 1/4 oz. creme de violette (optional).
- Shake until thoroughly chilled and strain into a coupe glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Channel your inner Gatsby and get your speakeasy on with these drinks.