Fancy & Improved Cocktail
By the 1860s, it was common practice to add liqueurs–Curaçao and maraschino in the early days–to the Cocktail’s original formula. The term “Fancy Cocktail” typically denotes this addition and the assurance of a lemon twist, too. “Improved Cocktails” typically layer yet more flavor, with absinthe, multiple liqueurs, or a combination of bitters. The recipe below is technically an Improved Cocktail, though omitting the absinthe will knock it down to the “Fancy” level.
INGREDIENTS
2 oz. genever, Cognac, or rye
¼ oz. liqueur*
1 barspoon rich demerara syrup
3 dashes bitters, preferably Bogart’s
2 dashes absinthe
Garnish: lemon twist
ABV LEVEL
Combine all in a mixing glass. Fill three-quarters with ice and stir for 20 seconds. Strain into a chilled stemmed cocktail glass. Express the oils from a lemon twist and garnish the cocktail with it (or discard).
*Some suggestions for spirit-liqueur pairings:
Genever + green Chartreuse or maraschino
Cognac + Curaçao or crème de menthe
Rye whiskey + crème de cacao or apricot liqueur