Whether or not this drink is truly an ancestor of today’s Dry Gin Martini (with which it has little in common), it is a great model in the cocktail fossil record because it showcases how certain ingredients were used before the twentieth century: back in the day, maraschino liqueur and orange Curaçao were two cordials used interchangeably (depending on availability) as sweeteners in cocktails. Vermouth was always sweet Italian red vermouth; French or dry vermouth were not popular in cocktail making until the end of the nineteenth century. Legend says this drink was named for the small Northern California town where a Gold Rush miner ordered “one for the road” before heading for the hills.
Recipe information
Yield
makes 1 drink
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Pour all the liquid ingredients into a mixing glass. Add large cold ice cubes and stir for 40 revolutions. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with the lemon twist.
tasting notes
Step 2
Dominant Flavors: juniper, maraschino, caramel
Step 3
Body: velvety texture created by the combination of Italian vermouth and maraschino
Step 4
Dryness: medium to sweet
Step 5
Complexity: high
Step 6
Accentuating or Contrasting Flavors: maraschino and herbs
Step 7
Finish: medium, fragrant
Step 8
Glass: cocktail
