The Signature Cocktail
A signature cocktail is a unique or original cocktail that expresses the nature of the person or establishment making it. In other words, it is their signature.
Signature cocktails often contain local ingredients and culture. They can be created or designed to reflect a theme or color. Many cultures, states, cities, restaurants, bars, etc. have signature cocktails or drinks that represent their customs and reflect the pride of the people in the area.
The history of the Signature Cocktail
Signature cocktails have a long and colorful history and were invented long before the 21st century. In most cases, they are designed in the ‘spirit’ of the country where the drink comes from. There are stories for many drinks, including vodka, gin, tequila, bourbon and all kinds of liqueurs.
The Mojito and Signature Cocktails
An example of a signature cocktail is the Mojito. Historians suggest that the Mojito was created when slaves working the fields at the end of the 19th century mixed guarapo, rum and lime juice to end the day.
The local drink was mixed with the local fruit, the lime, and the sugarcane that was plentiful on the sugar plantations.
Another popular legend is that an English pirate, an associated of Sir Francis Drake, created a drink in Havana that was similar to the Mojito by mixing aguardiente, sugar, lime and mint as a remedy for the scurvy and dysentery plaguing the crew of the ship. Shortly after, a cocktail known as ‘El Draque’, made from similar ingredients, became popular in Cuba.
Yet another example of a signature cocktail is the Bellini. It was invented by Giuseppe Cipriani, the barman and owner of Harry’s Bar in Venice, Italy. Italian white peaches were among Cipriani’s favorite fruit, but they were only available from June to September. In a moment of inspiration, he created this refreshing Summer’s drink by combining the fresh white peaches with prosecco. He named the cocktail after Giovanni Bellini, a famous 15th century Italian painter.
Trend or fashion
Signature cocktails have become ever more popular. In the attempt to distinguish oneself as a person or establishment from others and the competition, the signature cocktail is seized as a welcome opportunity to do so. The aim is to create a unique experience for the guests visiting an establishment that has created a signature cocktail.
In the special event sector, the phenomenon of signature drinks has taken considerable hold. An original drink introduces the possibility to give a bar a color theme. At wedding receptions and all kinds of events, it is possible to serve a signature drink. In particular at wedding receptions, couples like to serve a signature drink that has been designed especially for them. The drink reflects their personal tastes and helps them establish the theme and color they have chosen for the reception.
The idea of aromatized liquor has become really popular. Many companies produce all kinds of versions and different flavors of their original spirits, usually by infusing the liqueur itself, creating a genuinely remarkable and unique result.
The lively colors of the individual fruit also adds to the personality of the drink.
The use of herbs to infuse has created a whole new line of cocktails. These herb-infused cocktails generate an entirely different flavor. Basil, rosemary, sage, thyme and mint are used with increased frequency in the drinks arena.
Edible flowers, flower extracts and flower-based liquors are occasionally used. Carnation petals, lavender, rose petals and violets add complex flower or vegetation elements to mix drinks. Syrups and extracts infused with flower petals and stems contain a more concentrated flavor of the blossoms in cocktails. Flowery garnishes give the cocktail aroma a stronger blossomy note and add beauty to the presentation.
YOUR SIGNATURE COCKTAIL
Our bartenders will be happy to make a special Signature Cocktail for you, your company or organization that matches you or the occasion. For instance, a Signature Cocktail to celebrate a wedding or anniversary. That is as unique as it gets. Ask us about the possibilities.
