How to Make a Glee Club - Easy Step-by-Step Cocktail Recipe

How to Make a Glee Club - Easy Step-by-Step Cocktail Recipe

Calendar Icon February 21, 2025 User Icon by BarBot Team

Introduction

The Glee Club cocktail is a delightful throwback to the early 20th century, offering a taste of history with every sip. This elegant drink originated in 1903 and stands out for its unique combination of sherry, Chartreuse, and fruity elements, making it a refined choice for those who appreciate a well-crafted apéritif. Its harmonious blend of flavors creates a clean and refreshing experience, perfect for setting the stage for an evening of fine dining or lively conversation.

Interestingly, the Glee Club cocktail is named after a type of musical group known for performing glees—short songs with multiple vocal parts. Much like its namesake, this cocktail brings together different ingredients to create a symphony of flavors that work in perfect harmony. It's a testament to the creativity and innovation of early bartenders who sought to craft drinks that were as sophisticated as they were enjoyable.

While not as widely known as some of its contemporaries, the Glee Club's unique profile and historical charm make it a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts. It's a drink that invites you to slow down, savor each sip, and appreciate the artistry involved in its creation.

Ingredients

  • 3 dashes Absinthe
  • 3 dashes Burlesque Bitters
  • 0.75 oz Yellow Chartreuse
  • 0.5 oz Framboise Eau De Vie
  • 2.5 oz Amontillado Sherry
  • 1 Lemon Peel
  • 1 Ice

To create the Glee Club cocktail, you'll need a selection of premium ingredients that contribute to its distinctive taste. Here's what you'll need:

  • 3 dashes Absinthe: Absinthe adds a subtle anise flavor, enhancing the complexity of the drink.
  • 3 dashes Burlesque Bitters: Burlesque Bitters bring a touch of spice and depth to the cocktail.
  • 0.75 oz Yellow Chartreuse: Yellow Chartreuse offers a sweet, herbal note that complements the sherry.
  • 0.5 oz Framboise Eau De Vie: Framboise Eau De Vie provides a hint of raspberry, adding fruitiness to the mix.
  • 2.5 oz Amontillado Sherry: Amontillado Sherry serves as the base, delivering a nutty and rich flavor.
  • 1 Lemon Peel: A lemon peel is used to add a fresh citrus aroma, balancing the other flavors.
  • 1 Ice: Ice is essential for chilling and diluting the cocktail to perfection.

Instructions

Crafting the Glee Club cocktail is a straightforward process that rewards precision and attention to detail. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect balance:

  1. Add all the ingredients, except the garnish, to a mixing glass.
  2. Fill with ice and stir until chilled.
  3. Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass.
  4. Twist the lemon peel over the glass to express the oils, then discard the peel.

Tips

  • Use a quality Amontillado Sherry to ensure the base of your cocktail is rich and flavorful.
  • When expressing the lemon peel, hold it over the glass and twist gently to release the oils without breaking the peel.
  • Stir the cocktail gently to avoid over-dilution, which can mute the delicate flavors.
  • Chill your cocktail glass in advance to keep the drink crisp and refreshing.

Conclusion

The Glee Club cocktail is a testament to the elegance and sophistication of early 20th-century mixology. Its unique blend of flavors and historical roots make it a fascinating addition to any cocktail repertoire. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply unwinding after a long day, this drink is sure to impress with its nuanced taste and vintage charm.

If you're eager to explore more classic cocktails or experiment with your own creations, the BarBot app is your perfect companion. Discover a vast array of recipes, document your tasting experiences, and share your cocktail journey with fellow enthusiasts. Download BarBot today and elevate your home bartending skills to new heights. Cheers to discovering the art of mixology!

Glee Club recipe adapted from The Dead Rabbit Drinks Manual by Sean Muldoon and Jack McGarry.