5 Popular Cocktails During U.S. Prohibition

During the Prohibition era (The Dry Years), when alcohol was banned, inventive mixologists concocted some of the most beloved cocktails that continue to be cherished today.

1. Mojito

A quintessential summer sipper, the Mojito combines rum, zesty lime juice, fresh mint, and a touch of sweetness from sugar. Back in the Prohibition days, the potent flavor of mint cleverly disguised the taste of bootlegged spirits, making it a popular choice among clandestine drinkers.

2. The Last Word

This exquisite cocktail emerged from the shadows of Prohibition, boasting a tantalizing blend of gin, tangy lime juice, herbaceous Green Chartreuse, and a hint of floral sweetness from maraschino liqueur. Its symphony of flavors perfectly harmonizes with modern gins, ensuring its status as a cherished favorite for generations to come.

3. Bee’s Knees

Crafted ingeniously with gin and elevated by the golden nectar of honey, the Bee’s Knees was a cunning creation of bartenders seeking to mask the harsh taste of illicit liquors. Simple yet sophisticated, its recipe—gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup—has stood the test of time, offering a delightful respite from the rigors of Prohibition.

4. Sidecar

Legend has it that the Sidecar was born in the atmospheric confines of Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, courtesy of bartender Harry MacElhone. Drawing inspiration from the classic whiskey sour, this elegant concoction marries brandy, Cointreau, and lemon juice in perfect proportions.

5. Daiquiri

As the dry winds of Prohibition swept across the land, the Daiquiri emerged as a beacon of refreshment. A harmonious blend of white rum, tangy lime juice, and just the right amount of simple syrup, its clean and crisp flavor profile provided solace to parched palates during the era of prohibition. From clandestine speakeasies to upscale cocktail lounges, the Daiquiri remains a cherished classic that continues to stand the test of time.

Author: StrangeAgo