Harvard Cocktail
CLASSIC · COGNAC

Harvard Cocktail

Dating back to 1895, the Harvard Cocktail is a refined, spirit-forward apéritif that balances the richness of cognac against the bittersweet complexity of vermouth, lifted by a whisper of bubbles and a bright citrus finish.

Ingredients
Cognac45 ml
Gomme Syrup2.5 ml
Soda Water15 ml
Lemon Zest Twist
Glassware
Coupe glass
Chilled.
Flavor
BODYSWEETFRUITACIDHEATSMOKEEARTHBITTER

Oak · Orange · Vanilla

Estimated profile

Method
  1. 1

    Pre-chill a coupe glass.

  2. 2

    Prepare a lemon zest twist and set aside.

  3. 3

    Combine cognac, sweet red vermouth, gomme syrup, and Angostura bitters in a mixing glass with ice.

  4. 4

    Stir well for approximately 20–25 seconds until properly chilled and diluted.

  5. 5

    Strain into the chilled coupe glass.

  6. 6

    Top with a small splash of soda water.

  7. 7

    Express the lemon zest twist over the surface of the drink, run it around the rim, and place it on the glass as garnish.

From the Bartender

The Harvard Cocktail first appeared in George Kappeler's 1895 'Modern American Drinks' and is essentially a cognac Manhattan - the small addition of soda water is period-accurate and helps lift the aromatics without diluting the drink's character.

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