The Prohibition Era is one of the most pivotal decades in mixology and the world of cocktails. Between 1920 and 1933, the production, importation, and sale of alcohol were banned in the United States (US). The law was meant to curb the nation’s drinking habits, hoping for a more modest consumption or none at all.
Instead, it led to the creation of speakeasies, which were hidden, illegal bars selling alcohol. Surprisingly, this move surged creativity and innovation, leading to the creation of many cocktails. Let’s explore these forgotten classic cocktail recipes, many of which have been recreated to fit our current tastes and preferences.
The Impact of Prohibition on Cocktails
The Rise of Speakeasies
Speakeasies were hidden bars that operated illegally during Prohibition. To gain entry, patrons needed a secret password or code to identify themselves. Inside, they enjoyed music, dance, jazz, and socializing. They maintained an aura of mystery and exclusivity.
Food and drinks were central to the operations since most speakeasies were quieter than modern nightclubs. This meant that bartenders had to be creative with their cocktail recipes. The ingredients were limited because they were shipped illegally, yet the mixologists made the most of what was available.
The Popularity of Home Bartending
Another emerging trend in the Prohibition era was the unexpected popularity of home bartending, which led to more creative cocktails. Although the sale of alcohol was banned, many could access cheap, inferior-quality spirits, which they would use to make forgotten classic cocktails.
At home, people would mix these spirits with different flavors, syrups, and infusions to mask the bitter taste of the often low-quality alcohol. They’d experiment with whatever ingredients were available in the market, leading to many palatable and enjoyable drinks added to their classic cocktails book.
Forgotten Classic Cocktails
Here are some examples of forgotten classic cocktails that we no longer sell or drink, although they were a great hit during the Prohibition era.
- The Last Word
History and Origin
The Last Word is one of the forgotten classic cocktails, first documented in Ted Saucier’s 1951 cocktail book Bottoms Up. It was a pre-prohibition cocktail that gained popularity during the Prohibition era due to its simplicity. It was first recognized at the Detroit Athletic Club and was consumed up to the early 2000s.
Unique Characteristics
The cocktail stands out due to its simple ingredients, which are served in equal measure. They include equal parts of gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice. Combining these ingredients results in a balanced drink that is refreshing and tasty.
Variations and Substitutions
Modern mixologists have built on this original recipe to add new ingredients like bourbon or mezcal to Prohibition cocktails. They add a different base spirit to keep things interesting, but the other original ingredients remain.
- The Bee’s Knees
History and Origin
The Bee’s Knees is another forgotten classic cocktail of the Prohibition era. It became popular because it could mask the harsh flavors common in bathtub gin. The name “bee’s knees” was a slang word used back in the 1920s, meaning ‘the best.’
Unique Characteristics
The Bee’s Knees stood out for its simplicity and balance. It was made from gin, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup. The honey added a smooth sweetness that went well with the botanical notes of the gin. Bartenders would add lemon juice to give it a refreshing tang that would brighten the drink.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’d like to make this speakeasy drink, you can add more variety by experimenting with the different types of honey we have today. You may also add a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
The Southside
History and Origin
The Southside was named so because it’s believed to have first been made on the south side of Chicago, a place notorious for gang activity during the Prohibition era. As one of the forgotten classic cocktails, it was popular among the members of Al Capone’s gang. Its minty ingredients masked the harsh flavors of the bootleg liquor that was available at that time.
Yet another theory suggests the Southside drink originated in New York with the Southside’s Club in Long Island. Club members favored the drink as a refreshing summer drink among the wealthy.
Unique Characteristics
The Southside was beloved for its simplicity and refreshing qualities as a forgotten classic cocktail. It was made from gin, mint, lime juice, and simple syrup. The mint gave it a cooling effect, which was soothing during summer seasons. The lime juice and syrup balanced the sweet and sour taste.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’d like to reincarnate this forgotten classic cocktail, you can make a bubbly version using a splash of club soda. Alternatively, you can use bourbon instead of gin for a different taste. Add some slices of cucumber to the mix to boost its refreshing quality.
Recreating Forgotten Classics
Some of the original Prohibition products may be hard to find, but there are many substitutes on the market today that you can use. Source readily available modern equivalents, like herbal liqueurs instead of green Chartreuse or homemade syrups in place of old-fashioned sweeteners.
Authentic Presentation
Once you have tried these recipes with a modern twist, you can serve them in a way that reminds you and your guests of the Prohibition era. Use vintage-style glassware to enjoy these forgotten classic cocktails and top them up with garnishes that were popular in the 1920s. You can try garnishes like lemon twists, cherries, and mint sprigs.
Beyond the Classics
Now that you understand more about forgotten classic cocktails let’s look at how you can indulge in them in today’s society. Enjoying these traditional drinks takes a bit of creativity, but it’s not entirely impossible.
Essential Tools for Home Bartenders
To recreate Prohibition-era drinks, you need simple tools and equipment accessible to all consumers. The best tools for home bartenders include:
- Shaker – Pour in all your ingredients in here to mix them up thoroughly
- Jigger – You’ll use this to measure the ingredients accurately
- Strainer – use this to smoothen the drink by removing the ice and solid ingredients
- Bar spoon – Use this to stir and layer your drinks
- Muddler – Crush your herbs and fruits to release as much of the flavors as you can
Batching Cocktails for Larger Gatherings
Selecting the Right Cocktails
If you want to make these forgotten classic cocktails in batches, choose those that maintain their flavor and balance when scaled up. These include Bee’s Knees, Southside, and other simple syrup-based drinks, as these blend well over time. Avoid carbonated cocktails, as they may be difficult to maintain when in large quantities.
Calculating Quantities
Take the original ingredients needed for a small number of servings and multiply them by the number of batch cocktails you wish to serve at your party.
Mixing and Storing
Mix all the ingredients in a large pitcher or bowl except the carbonated drinks. Stir well to ensure everything mixes evenly, then put the mixed batches in a refrigerator to chill. If you need carbonated beverages in your cocktails, you can add them at the serving point.
Serving Batches
Prepare the garnishes beforehand when batching cocktails for a prohibition party. Use beverage dispensers or large pitchers to serve guests, whether there is waiting staff or it’s self-service. You can have ice on standby for guests who want to chill their drinks or pre-chill the glasses to reduce the need for ice.
Homemade Syrups and Infusions
Creating homemade syrups and cocktail infusions can enhance the flavors of your chosen forgotten classic cocktails. Here are a few syrups and infusions you can try out:
- Honey syrup
- Herbal infusions
- Ginger syrup
- Spiced infusions
- Lavender syrup
- Citrus infusions
- Mint syrup
- Honey syrup
Conclusion
Influence on Modern Mixology
The Prohibition era had a lasting impact on modern mixology. Many bartenders today draw inspiration from the forgotten classic cocktails created at that time. Although simple, these classics remain the foundation for many contemporary cocktail trends.
Exploring Forgotten Classics
Exploring forgotten classic cocktails is a great way to transport your guests or patrons to historic times. When you experiment on these classics at home or your local bar,you can discover new, exciting drinks. Not to mention how much you’ll impress your friends with your newly acquired bartending skills.
Creating a Prohibition-Themed Party Atmosphere
You can use vintage-style decor and dim lighting to create a more immersive Prohibition-era experience. Ensure there’s dim lighting to create an authentic speakeasy atmosphere and play some classical jazz music. Request your guests to dress in 1920s fashion with flapper dresses, suits, and fedoras to set the mood. With these tips and guides, you can enjoy the historic Prohibition Era with a modern twist!