Introduction
Remember The Maine is a cocktail that pays homage to a significant event in American naval history—the sinking of the USS Maine in 1898. This drink, with its bold and nuanced flavors, is a fitting tribute to the era's spirit of adventure and exploration. Combining rye whiskey, cherry liqueur, and a hint of absinthe, Remember The Maine offers a taste that is both rich and complex, making it a favorite among cocktail connoisseurs.
The cocktail was popularized by Charles H. Baker Jr., a renowned travel writer and cocktail enthusiast, in his book *The Gentleman's Companion*. Baker's travels introduced him to various cultures and their unique beverages, and Remember The Maine stands out as one of his celebrated finds. Its intriguing blend of ingredients captures the essence of a bygone era while remaining timeless in its appeal.
Fun fact: The name "Remember The Maine" is derived from the rallying cry "Remember the Maine, to Hell with Spain!" which fueled American sentiment during the Spanish-American War. This cocktail, like its namesake, is bold and unforgettable, offering a taste adventure that's perfect for history buffs and cocktail lovers alike.
Ingredients
To create a truly memorable Remember The Maine, you'll need a selection of high-quality ingredients that blend seamlessly together. Here's your shopping list for this classic cocktail:
- 2 oz 100 Rye: Opt for a rye with a robust character, such as Rittenhouse 100, to provide a solid base for the cocktail's complex flavors.
- 0.75 oz Vermouth di Torino: Vermouth di Torino adds depth and sweetness, balancing the boldness of the rye.
- 0.25 oz Cherry Liqueur: Cherry liqueur lends a subtle fruitiness that complements the rye and vermouth.
- 0.25 oz Kirsch Vieux Cherry Brandy: Kirsch Vieux Cherry Brandy enhances the cherry notes, adding a layer of sophistication.
- 2 dashes Absinthe: Absinthe provides a hint of herbal complexity, elevating the drink's aromatic profile.
- 1 Lemon Twist: A fresh lemon twist adds a bright, citrusy finish, tying all the flavors together.
Instructions
Crafting a Remember The Maine requires precision and care to ensure each flavor shines. Follow these steps to achieve cocktail perfection:
- Rinse a Nick & Nora glass with absinthe and dump.
- Stir the remaining ingredients over ice.
- Strain into the glass.
- Garnish with the lemon twist.
Tips
- Use a high-quality absinthe for the glass rinse—it should be aromatic and not overpowering.
- Ensure your mixing glass is chilled before use to maintain the cocktail's integrity.
- Stir the ingredients gently to avoid over-dilution while achieving the right temperature and texture.
- Experiment with different brands of cherry liqueur to find the balance that suits your palate best.
Conclusion
Remember The Maine is more than just a cocktail; it's a journey through history with every sip. Its rich blend of flavors captures the adventurous spirit of the late 19th century, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a drink with depth and character. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cocktail is sure to impress.
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Remember The Maine recipe adapted from Death & Co: Modern Classic Cocktails by David Kaplan, Nick Fauchald, and Alex Day.
