Grenadine: The Unsung Hero of the Cocktail World
The Misunderstood Marvel
Let's shatter some myths, shall we? Grenadine – that brilliant ruby elixir – has been pigeonholed as merely a sweet and colorful addition to your cocktail. But a symphony of taste, not just a visual aid.
The Real McCoy
Far from the imposters masquerading in your local supermarket, authentic grenadine contains pomegranate juice and sugar. Occasionally, it might don a few extras like pomegranate molasses, orange blossom water, or additional citrus, but at its heart, it's a tribute to its namesake: the pomegranate (or "grenade" in French).
A Colorful History
Grenadine's tale is as rich as its flavor. Picture this: it's the mid-1800s, and fruity syrups are the latest rage among bartenders. Grenadine makes its grand entrance in print by 1891, and by the 1930s, it's a cocktail staple. But here's the twist – early on, it was often a stand-in for raspberry or strawberry syrups, causing a centuries-long identity crisis.
The Era of Fakes
By the time the 20th century rolled around, grenadine was facing an identity crisis, exacerbated by a flood of imitations. In 1912, a case titled "U.S. vs. Thirty Cases Purporting to be Grenadine Syrup" turned the spotlight on these fakes. Sadly, the real grenadine's complex flavor was overshadowed by these imposters, leading to a misconception that it was nothing more than a coloring agent.
Rediscovering Grenadine's Charm
Despite its bumpy history, grenadine's versatility is undeniable. It pairs wonderfully with gin, rum, vodka, tequila, and even whiskey, bringing a unique sweet-tangy profile to each concoction. Yet, finding true grenadine remains a quest for the dedicated, unless of course, someone makes some for you.
Our Favorite Grenadine Cocktail: The Pan American Clipper
Let's take a sip down memory lane with the Pan American Clipper. This cocktail, a blend of apple brandy, lime juice, grenadine, and absinthe, is a throwback to 1939. Its creator, Charles H. Baker, a man with a taste for global flavors, included it in his book, "The Gentleman's Companion."
St. John Frizell, a modern-day cocktail maestro, revived this classic with a few twists. His rendition uses a mix of lemon and lime juice and American apple brandy. The result? A cocktail that's a nod to both American heritage and global sophistication.
Ingredients
2 oz. Apple Brandy
½ oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
½ oz. Fresh Lime Juice
¾ oz. Grenadine
1 tsp. Absinthe or a spritz from an atomizer
Tools: Shaker, Strainer, Atomizer (Optional)
Glass: Coupe or Nick & Nora
Preparation
1. Shake the first four ingredients with ice.
2. Coat the inside of the glass with absinthe, discarding the excess.
3. Double Strain the drink into the prepared glass.
A Toast to the Underdog
Whether you're a pilot, a poet, or just someone who appreciates the finer nuances of a good drink, the Pan American Clipper is more than a cocktail – it's a celebration of grenadine's unsung complexity. Here's to rediscovering the true essence of this extraordinary syrup!
