Old Pal
The Old Pal is a classic cocktail that beautifully balances the rich flavors of rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari. Served chilled and garnished with a twist of orange, this drink offers a delightful blend of bitterness and sweetness, making it a sophisticated choice for those who appreciate a robust and aromatic libation. Its origins trace back to the early 20th century, embodying the timeless elegance of vintage cocktails.
Ingredients
- 2 ozRye whiskey
- 1 ozCampari
- 1 ozDry Vermouth
Pairs Well With
- Cured meats and aged cheeses
- Roasted beet and goat cheese salad
- Marinated olives and marinated almonds
- Pan-seared scallops with lemon butter
Preparation
Chill cocktail glass. Add ingredients to a mixing glass, and fill 2/3 full with ice. Stir about 20 seconds. Empty cocktail glass and strain into the glass. Garnish with a twist of lemon peel.
Best Enjoyed
Pro Tips
Use a dry rye with spicy character to stand up to the assertive Campari and vermouth combination
Balance the drink carefully—equal parts creates intensity, so slight adjustments in ratios suit individual palates better than rigid adherence to recipes
Stir longer than usual to achieve proper dilution and integration, as the aromatized wines need adequate water to mellow
Serve immediately in a coupe or nick and nora glass to showcase the drink's translucent amber color.
History & Origins
The Old Pal emerged in the 1920s as a drier, more sophisticated sibling to the Boulevardier, swapping vermouth distribution and ratios to emphasize aperitif complexity over warm sweetness. Named for a bartender's greeting, this Prohibition-era classic represents the era's cocktail innovation, when bartenders experimented with balanced proportions of aromatized wines. It remains less celebrated than its cousins but offers compelling bitter-herbal notes for the discerning drinker.
Variations
Modern Pal
Incorporates Amaro Nonino instead of Campari for herbal complexity and reduced bitterness
Bitter Pal
Increases dry vermouth ratio to 1:1 with Campari for intensified aromatic character
Vermouth-Forward Pal
Adds a dash of orange bitters and expressed orange peel for citrus brightness.
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