How to Make a 20th-Century Cocktail - Easy Step-by-Step Cocktail Recipe

How to Make a 20th-Century Cocktail - Easy Step-by-Step Cocktail Recipe

Calendar Icon February 15, 2025 User Icon by BarBot Team

Introduction

The 20th-Century Cocktail is a sophisticated drink that beautifully blends the elegance of gin with the sweet touch of crème de cacao and the crispness of lemon juice. This cocktail is a testament to the creativity of the early 1900s and remains a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts looking for something a bit out of the ordinary.

Created by British bartender C.A. Tuck in 1937, this cocktail was named after the luxurious 20th Century Limited train that ran between New York and Chicago. The drink embodies the glamour and innovation of its era, making it a delightful option for anyone seeking to experience a taste of history.

One interesting tidbit about the 20th-Century Cocktail is its unique combination of flavors. While gin and lemon juice are common in cocktails, the addition of crème de cacao and Lillet Blanc creates a delightful balance of sweet and tart, making it a truly unique concoction.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 oz Gin
  • 0.75 oz Lemon Juice
  • 0.75 oz White Crème De Cacao
  • 0.75 oz Lillet Blanc

To make the perfect 20th-Century Cocktail, you'll need a few quality ingredients that harmonize beautifully together. Here's what you'll need:

  • 1.5 oz Gin: Opt for a London Dry Gin or a more floral gin to complement the other flavors.
  • 0.75 oz Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for that bright, refreshing taste.
  • 0.75 oz White Crème De Cacao: White crème de cacao adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the cocktail.
  • 0.75 oz Lillet Blanc: Lillet Blanc provides a hint of fruitiness and enhances the complexity of the drink.

Instructions

Crafting the 20th-Century Cocktail is a straightforward process that allows the unique flavors to shine. Follow these steps to achieve cocktail perfection:

  1. Shake ingredients with ice.
  2. Strain into a coupe glass.

Tips

  • Chill your coupe glass in advance to keep the cocktail crisp and refreshing.
  • Experiment with different gins to find your preferred balance of botanical notes.
  • Adjust the lemon juice to suit your taste if you prefer a slightly more tart or sweet profile.
  • For a twist, try adding a lemon peel garnish for an aromatic touch.

Conclusion

The 20th-Century Cocktail is a prime example of how classic cocktails can offer a unique experience with every sip. Its blend of gin, lemon juice, crème de cacao, and Lillet Blanc creates a drink that is both refreshing and complex—perfect for those looking to explore sophisticated flavors.

Ready to dive deeper into the world of cocktails? With BarBot, you can discover more intriguing recipes like the 20th-Century Cocktail, log your tasting experiences, and even share your creations with fellow enthusiasts. Download the app today and embark on a flavorful journey through the art of mixology. Cheers to new discoveries!

20th-Century Cocktail recipe adapted from Liquid Intelligence: The Art and Science of the Perfect Cocktail by Dave Arnold.