Clandestine Cocktails to Toast Repeal Day

Today marks the 90th anniversary of Prohibition’s repeal, and to celebrate our right to openly raise a glass, we checked in with bartender, writer and keeper of repealday.org, Jeffrey Morgenthaler, for five of his favorite toast-worthy tipples—here are his picks.

Scofflaw

“The Scofflaw is a no-brainer—it was created pretty much by Prohibition.” Named after the term given to those who clandestinely sipped spirits throughout Prohibition, the Scofflaw debuted in 1924 at Harry’s Bar in Paris.

Mary Pickford and Daiquiri

“I think of these two as quintessential drinks made with white rum smuggled into the country during Prohibition.” The Mary Pickford, a rum-forward sipper, is named for the famed silent movie actress and created by bartender Eddie Woelke who fled to Cuba during Prohibition. As many Americans found drinking sanctuary in Cuba, they fell in love with the Daiquiri, boosting its popularity.

French 75

“The French 75 is just that perfect expatriate drink.” Named after the World War I field gun, the sparkling cocktail was around in some form or another for years before it was published in The Savoy Cocktail Book in 1930. It’s a simple three-ingredient drink but the gin (or cognac) with Champagne make it perfect for celebrating Repeal Day.

Manhattan

“I always think of Manhattans when I think of Prohibition.” The classic whiskey cocktail was invented in the 1800s and stuck around during Prohibition. But throughout those dry years, when rye and bourbon whiskey were hard to come by, it was made with Canadian whisky.