The Bamboo cocktail, a creation attributed to Mr. Louis Eppinger, carries a rich history that takes us back to the late 19th century. Cocktail historian David Wondrich offers a glimpse into the past, recounting how this libation came to life at the Grand Hotel in Yokohama, Japan. With each sip of the Bamboo, we step into a bygone era, where elegance and creativity converged to create a timeless concoction. In this recipe, we invite you to journey through time and explore the Bamboo cocktail—a harmonious blend of dry sherry, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters. Let us pay homage to the legacy of Mr. Louis Eppinger as we unveil the secrets behind this classic libation.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 1/2 fl oz/45 ml dry sherry
- 1 1/2 fl oz/45 ml sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 2 drops orange bitters
- Ice cubes
- Lemon zest (for spritz and garnish)
- Lemon zest twist or olive (for garnish)
PREPARATIONS:
- In a mixing glass, stir dry sherry, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters together with ice until well combined.
- Strain the cocktail into a martini glass or coupe, allowing its intricate flavors to shine.
- Spritz the surface of the drink with lemon zest, releasing its aromatic oils, and then discard the zest.
- Garnish the cocktail with a lemon zest twist or olive, enhancing its visual appeal.
YIELD:
One refined and nostalgic Bamboo cocktail.
SERVING:
Serve the cocktail in a martini glass or coupe, capturing the classic and sophisticated presentation of the era.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Stirring the cocktail with ice ensures proper dilution and integration of flavors.
- Spritzing the surface with lemon zest adds a burst of citrus aroma to the drinking experience.
TIPS:
- Experiment with different types of dry sherry to explore varying nuances in flavor.
- Adjust the bitters quantities to tailor the cocktail’s bitterness and complexity to your taste.
The Bamboo cocktail is more than a libation—it’s a portal to the past, a glimpse into the creative genius of Mr. Louis Eppinger and the Grand Hotel in Yokohama, Japan. With each sip, we’re transported to a time where bartenders crafted cocktails with precision and passion, paving the way for timeless classics.
The marriage of dry sherry and sweet vermouth in the Bamboo is a testament to the art of balance. The addition of Angostura bitters and orange bitters elevates the cocktail, introducing layers of complexity and depth. The ritual of spritzing lemon zest adds a touch of sensory delight, awakening the senses with its citrusy allure.
Crafting the Bamboo is an homage to the past—a tribute to innovation and the enduring appeal of well-crafted libations. Stirring the ingredients with ice ensures a seamless fusion of flavors, while the garnish of lemon zest or olive adds a final touch of elegance.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious cocktail aficionado, the Bamboo invites you to embrace its charm and sophistication. Share this classic gem with friends and fellow enthusiasts, and engage in conversations that celebrate the heritage of mixology.
In essence, the Bamboo cocktail is a toast to history, a salute to creativity, and a reminder that the past continues to inspire the present. Raise your glass to Mr. Louis Eppinger and the timeless allure of the Bamboo—a cocktail that bridges generations and flavors.
