25 Days of Christmas Cocktails, Day 11: Coffee Cocktail - Imbibe Magazine Subscribe + Save

25 Days of Christmas Cocktails, Day 11: Coffee Cocktail

The classic Coffee Cocktail is somewhat reminiscent of egg nog in its creaminess and depth. Rather poorly titled, the drink actually contains no coffee at all, as commented on by Jerry Thomas in 1887, when he published the recipe in his much-beloved Bartenders Guide, or How to Mix Drinks. He explains, “the name of this drink is a misnomer, as coffee and bitters are not to be found among its ingredients, but it looks like coffee when it has been properly concocted, and hence probably its name.” Whatever you want to call it, one sip and you’ll find that this cocktail is a classic for a reason.

Coffee Cocktail
1 oz. Cognac
2 oz. tawny Port
½ oz. simple syrup
1 whole egg (pasteurized if you like)
Tools: shaker tin, strainer, fine strainer
Glass: footed rocks
Garnish: grated nutmeg

Add all ingredients to an ice-filled shaker. Shake vigorously and double strain into a chilled footed rocks glass. Garnish with grated nutmeg.

Adapted from Jerry ThomasBartenders Guide, or How to Mix Drinks, 1887

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