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The Cocktail Spirit with Robert Hess

The Japanese Cocktail

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It’s hard for me to understand how the Japanese cocktail has slid into obscurity. While you might find it listed in some of the modern cocktail books, you'll be hard pressed to find one that uses the original recipe from Jerry Thomas’ "Bar Tenders Guide" published in 1887. Properly made this drink has the sweet almond flavor of the orgeat balanced against the brandy and the bitters to present a very enticing drink.

Comments on This Episode

Every time I have a Japanese cocktail I have to wonder why this drink isn’t more common. One of the great things I like about it for the home mixologist, is that it doesn’t require you to have to have any fresh lemons or limes on hand, and yet it isn’t as “boozy” as a Martini or Manhattan.

By Robert Hess on 2007 08 17

I just tried this with grapefruit bitters and this cocktail really sung.

By Matt on 2008 01 26

"snug"… I assume that’s a good thing :->

By Robert Hess on 2008 01 26

More popular in Japan? Real Japanese drinks are Sake and Awamori smile

By Okinawa on 2008 02 10

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