The world of cocktails is filled with intriguing and sometimes mysterious creations, and one such legendary concoction is Death in The Afternoon. This enigmatic cocktail, popularized by the iconic writer Ernest Hemingway, carries an air of intrigue and allure. Let’s dive deep into the history, ingredients, and preparation of Death in The Afternoon.
Unveiling the Origins
The name "Death in the Afternoon" was inspired by Hemingway's book of the same name, which was published in 1932. The book explores the world of bullfighting, a subject that fascinated Hemingway, and the cocktail's name pays homage to the intensity and thrill associated with the sport. He was known for his love of both writing and indulging in cocktails especially absinthe which is a highly alcoholic spirit with a distinct anise flavor.
Hemingway first introduced the Death in the Afternoon cocktail to the public in a 1935 article he wrote for Esquire magazine. In the article, he provided a detailed recipe for the cocktail, encouraging readers to try it and experience its unique flavor.
Over the years, the Death in the Afternoon cocktail has gained popularity and has become a classic cocktail enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world. Its association with Hemingway and its intriguing name have added to its allure.
The Recipe Revealed
The cocktail's recipe is simple, consisting of absinthe and champagne. The combination of the strong, herbal notes of absinthe with the effervescence and elegance of champagne creates a distinctive and potent drink. Here is a detailed breakdown of the recipe:
Ingredients:- 1 1/2 ounces absinthe
- 4 ounces of chilled champagne
- Sugar cube (optional)
-
Chilled water (optional)
Instructions:
- Chill the champagne flute in the refrigerator or by adding ice and water to it for a few minutes. Remove any excess water before proceeding.
- If needed, place a sugar cube at the bottom of the chilled champagne flute. This step is optional and can add a touch of sweetness to the cocktail.
- Pour 1 1/2 ounces of absinthe into the flute. The amount can be adjusted based on personal preference for a stronger or milder taste.
- Slowly pour 4 ounces of chilled champagne into the flute, allowing the bubbles to mix with the absinthe.
- Stir gently using a cocktail spoon to combine the ingredients. This will help the flavors blend together. Optionally, you can add some chilled water to dilute the cocktail slightly. The amount can be adjusted based on personal preference.
- Serve the Death in The Afternoon cocktail immediately, preferably while the champagne is still effervescent. Enjoy the unique flavor combination of absinthe and champagne, which creates a captivating and refreshing taste profile.
Death in The Afternoon is not merely a cocktail; it is an embodiment of a bygone era, a symbol of artistic expression, and a drink that carries a sense of sophistication. Even today, it is celebrated as a testament to Hemingway's adventurous spirit and his ability to infuse creativity into both his writing and his drinking preferences. So, raise your glass, toast to the past, and indulge in the deadly pleasure that is Death in the Afternoon.
