Ford Cocktail – Martini Twist with Old Tom Gin
Recipe
60 ml | 2 oz › Old Tom Gin
30 ml | 1 oz › Dry Vermouth
10 ml | 1/3 oz › Bénédictine
2 Dash Orange Bitters
Method: Stirred
Glass: Coupe
Garnish: Orange zest
Shopping list
- Hayman’s Old Tom Gin
- Noilly Prat Dry Vermouth
- D.O.M. Bénédictine Liqueur
- The Bitter Truth Orange Bitters
THE HISTORY OF the Ford Cocktail
The first recorded mention of the Ford Cocktail appears in George J. Kappeler’s 1895 book, „Modern American Drinks“. Kappeler was a prominent bartender at the Holland House Hotel in New York City and his book is a significant source of many classic cocktail recipes. The original recipe called for Old Tom Gin, dry vermouth, Bénédictine and orange bitters.
Despite its name, the cocktail is not related to Henry Ford, the founder of the Ford Motor Company. The Ford Cocktail is named after Malcolm Webster Ford, an American athlete known for his achievements in the late 19th century. He was a prominent figure in sports during that era and the cocktail was likely named in his honor to celebrate his accomplishments.
The Ford Cocktail is a classic gin-based drink and it is often described as a Martini with a herbal twist, thanks to its combination of ingredients. While the Ford Cocktail may not be as universally recognized as the Martini or the Manhattan, it holds a special place in my classic cocktail heart. And I like the fact to use Old Tom gin here. A bottle I really love.
More classic cocktails?!
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A great cocktail! I also love Hayman’s Old Tom Gin. It is a good gin for many cocktails, but especially for this one because of its sweetness.