New York City is the birthplace of some of the world’s most legendary cocktails. From historical speakeasy classics that have stood the test of time to modern-day bar favorites, NYC and its creative mixologists have shaped the way we drink.
Sometimes, half of the fun is putting your own twist on a timeless boozy beverage to invent something that feels fresh and inventive. A simple tip is to experiment with artisanal simple syrups, and Sonoma offers some of the best. As part of our drinks tips, we’ll explore four classic NYC cocktails with one of our favorite artisanal syrups. So, whether you’re a pro behind the bar or just want to impress guests at your next dinner party, these five NYC-inspired drinks will ramp your cocktail game up a notch.
1. Manhattan with a Vanilla
This aptly named, world-famous cocktail was born in the 1870s at the Manhattan Club. In this version, we’ll add a rich, aromatic sweetness using the vanilla-bean infusion from the Sonoma Simple Syrup Collection.
- Combine 2 oz rye whiskey, 1 oz sweet vermouth, Sonoma Vanilla-Infused Simple Syrup, and bitters in a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir until well-chilled.
- Strain into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
You should notice the vanilla enhancing the complexity of the whiskey and vermouth blend.
To learn more about the Manhattan Cocktail – watch this video:
2. Lavender Cosmopolitan
The Cosmo is an absolute classic, loved by Madonna and cemented in popular culture forever, thanks to Sex and the City. In this twist, we’ll add a floral note using Sonoma’s Lavender-Infused Simple Syrup.
- Fill a shaker with ice and add 1.5 oz citron vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 0.5 oz triple sec, 0.5 oz lime juice, and 0.25 oz lavender syrup.
- Shake well.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
The lavender should balance the tartness of the cranberry and citrus.
For a basic recipe – watch this:
3. Gingered Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned has been around since the 1800s, but it’s made a comeback in the 21st Century, landing top of the list for best-selling cocktails globally six years in a row. We’ll spruce it up using Sonoma’s White Ginger-Infused Simple Syrup.
- In a lowball, combine 0.5 oz ginger syrup and 2 dashes Angostura bitters.
- Add 2 oz bourbon and ice, then stir gently.
- Twist orange peel over the glass to express its oil, then drop it in as a garnish.
The spicy kick adds even more warmth to the bourbon.
Watch this video to learn more:
4. Brooklyn with a Lemony Boost
The Brooklyn is the lesser-known cousin of the Manhattan, but every bit as delicious.
- Combine 2 oz rye whiskey, 1 oz dry vermouth, 0.25 oz maraschino liquor, and 0.25 oz Sonoma’s Lemon-Infused Simple Syrup.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon twist.
In this variation, the lemon syrup replaces the citrusy-bitter element of Amer Picon, staying true to the drink’s original character but with a slightly sweet, brighter taste.
Watch this to get a glimpse:
Endnote
Whether you’re shaking and stirring to wow your friends or to diversify your bar menu, these fresh takes on iconic cocktails are sure to be crowd-pleasers. Introducing flavors with artisanal simple syrups is a great way to put your own stamp on these delicious drinks. Let’s raise a glass to NYC’s cocktail legacy!
