Introduction
The Ace Cocktail is a delightful brunch classic that hails from the Prohibition era, a time when creative concoctions were born out of necessity. This cocktail is known for its creamy, sweet-sour profile, making it a perfect companion to a leisurely brunch or a sophisticated afternoon gathering. Its unique blend of gin, grenadine, cream, and a hint of citrus is rounded off with a frothy egg white, offering a luxurious texture that feels both indulgent and refreshing.
While the exact origins of the Ace Cocktail remain somewhat mysterious, it embodies the spirit of innovation that characterized the 1920s. Many cocktails from this period were crafted to mask the harshness of bootleg spirits, and the Ace Cocktail is no exception. Its balanced flavors and creamy finish make it a timeless choice for those who appreciate a drink that's as elegant as it is intriguing.
Interestingly, the Ace Cocktail is often associated with the brunch culture that gained popularity in the early 20th century. Its rich yet refreshing taste makes it a versatile drink that can stand alone or pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast or a brunch aficionado, the Ace Cocktail promises a delightful experience with every sip.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Ace Cocktail, you'll need a few essential ingredients that come together to form its distinct flavor profile. Here's what you'll need:
- 1.5 oz Dry Gin: Opt for a quality dry gin with botanical notes to complement the sweetness of the grenadine.
- 0.5 oz Grenadine: Grenadine adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful pink hue. Make sure to use a high-quality grenadine for the best flavor.
- 0.5 oz Heavy Cream: Heavy cream provides the lush, velvety texture that makes this cocktail so indulgent.
- 0.25 tsp Lemon Juice: A subtle hint of lemon juice adds brightness and balances the sweetness.
- 1 Egg White: Egg white is crucial for achieving the cocktail's signature frothy top.
- 1 Nutmeg: A dusting of nutmeg adds warmth and a hint of spice, enhancing the overall flavor.
Instructions
Crafting the Ace Cocktail is a straightforward process, but attention to detail is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Follow these steps for a flawless result:
- Combine gin, grenadine, heavy cream, lemon juice, and egg white in a cocktail shaker.
- Shake the drink vigorously without ice to emulsify the egg white, about 15 seconds.
- Fill the shaker three-quarters full with ice cubes and shake again vigorously until thoroughly chilled, about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a martini glass and garnish with a grating of nutmeg.
Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice to ensure the cocktail's bright and zesty character.
- Dry shaking the ingredients first helps emulsify the egg white, creating a smoother, frothier texture.
- For an extra creamy texture, consider using a bar spoon of simple syrup to enhance the sweetness and mouthfeel.
- Experiment with different gins to find the one that best suits your palate. A floral gin can add an interesting twist to the classic recipe.
- If you're concerned about using raw egg whites, pasteurized egg whites are a safe alternative that won't compromise the cocktail's texture.
Conclusion
The Ace Cocktail is a testament to the creativity and resilience of the Prohibition era, offering a unique blend of flavors that continue to captivate cocktail lovers today. Its creamy, sweet-sour profile makes it an ideal choice for brunch or any occasion that calls for a touch of elegance.
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Ace Cocktail recipe adapted from The 12 Bottle Bar by David Solmonson and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson.
