How to Mix a Hostage Situation: The Only Recipe You'll Ever Need

How to Mix a Hostage Situation: The Only Recipe You'll Ever Need

Calendar Icon March 26, 2025 User Icon by BarBot Team

Introduction

The Hostage Situation cocktail is a captivating concoction that marries the boldness of Old Tom Gin with the rich complexity of coffee-infused vermouth. It's a drink that demands attention, both for its intriguing name and its layered flavors. A relatively modern creation, this cocktail has quickly gained a following among those who appreciate a sophisticated sip with a twist.

Though its origins are shrouded in mystery, the Hostage Situation is a testament to the creativity of contemporary mixologists, who are unafraid to push boundaries and experiment with unique ingredients. It's a drink that invites you to savor each sip, revealing new nuances with every taste. Whether you're a gin aficionado or a cocktail adventurer, the Hostage Situation is sure to make an impression.

One interesting fact about the Hostage Situation is its use of coffee-infused Carpano Antica Formula Vermouth, which adds an unexpected depth and warmth to the drink. This infusion technique is a nod to the innovative spirit of modern mixology, where classic ingredients are reimagined to create something truly special.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Old Tom Gin
  • 0.5 oz Coffee-Infused Carpano Antica Formula Vermouth
  • 0.5 oz Vermouth
  • 0.25 oz Créole Shrubb
  • 2 dashes Regans’ Orange Bitters
  • 1 dash Angostura Bitters

To create a Hostage Situation cocktail, you'll need a selection of intriguing ingredients that come together for a unique taste experience. Here's what you'll need:

  • 2 oz Old Tom Gin: Old Tom Gin offers a slightly sweeter profile than London Dry, providing a smooth base for the cocktail.
  • 0.5 oz Coffee-Infused Carpano Antica Formula Vermouth: The coffee infusion adds a rich, aromatic complexity to the vermouth, elevating the drink's flavor profile.
  • 0.5 oz Vermouth: Used in conjunction with the coffee-infused version, it balances the sweetness and adds depth.
  • 0.25 oz Créole Shrubb: A liqueur that brings a hint of orange and spice, complementing the bitters.
  • 2 dashes Regans’ Orange Bitters: These bitters add a citrusy note that enhances the gin's botanicals.
  • 1 dash Angostura Bitters: Brings a touch of spice and warmth to the cocktail, rounding out the flavors.

Instructions

Crafting the Hostage Situation is about precision and balance. Follow these steps to perfect your mixology skills:

  1. Stir all the ingredients over ice.
  2. Strain into a double rocks glass over 1 large ice cube.
  3. Garnish with an orange twist.

Tips

  • Chill your mixing glass and rocks glass beforehand to ensure the cocktail stays cold longer.
  • When infusing vermouth with coffee, use freshly ground beans for the best aroma and flavor.
  • Stir the cocktail gently to avoid diluting the drink while ensuring all ingredients are well integrated.
  • Express the oils from the orange twist over the drink before garnishing to enhance the citrus aroma.

Conclusion

The Hostage Situation cocktail is a testament to the art of modern mixology, blending tradition with innovation for a truly memorable drink. Its complex layers of flavor make it a standout choice for any cocktail enthusiast looking to try something new and exciting.

Ready to dive deeper into the world of cocktails? Download the BarBot app to explore a vast array of recipes, log your tasting experiences, and refine your mixology skills. With BarBot, every cocktail becomes an opportunity to discover something extraordinary. Cheers to your next great mix!

Hostage Situation recipe adapted from Death & Co: Modern Classic Cocktails by David Kaplan, Nick Fauchald, and Alex Day.