Bronx Gin Citrus Cocktail
The Bronx Gin Citrus Cocktail revives a pre-Prohibition classic with a bright mix of gin, orange juice, and vermouth. Crisp, slightly sweet, and perfectly balanced — it’s the refreshing citrus cousin of the Martini.
The Bronx Gin Citrus Cocktail blends gin, sweet and dry vermouth, and orange juice into a bright, approachable classic. A bridge between citrus-forward sours and botanical gin drinks, it’s timeless and easy to master.
Background
Created in the early 1900s, the Bronx Cocktail was a hit in New York bars before Prohibition. It’s said to have been inspired by the Waldorf-Astoria’s bartending innovations, combining gin and vermouth with a splash of orange juice for freshness.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Gin – the aromatic backbone of the drink.
- Dry Vermouth – adds herbal dryness and depth.
- Sweet Vermouth – gives a soft, spiced sweetness.
- Orange Juice – balances with brightness and citrus.
Equipment
Cocktail shaker, strainer, and a chilled cocktail glass.
Bittersweet Simplicity
Balanced, smooth, and easy to sip. The Bronx is refreshing without being sweet, and complex without effort. Its mix of botanicals and citrus makes it perfect for afternoon drinking or early evening aperitifs.
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap gin for vodka for a cleaner, milder profile.
- Use blood orange juice for a deeper color and flavor.
- Add a dash of orange bitters to heighten aroma.
- Garnish with a lemon twist for extra zest.
Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh orange juice for brightness.
- Chill your glass to keep the drink crisp.
- Pairs well with light appetizers like shrimp cocktail or citrus salads.
Bronx Cocktail Recipe
Type of Glass
Cocktail Glass
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
Directions
- Add gin, dry vermouth, sweet vermouth, and orange juice to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with an orange peel or cherry.
Bright, balanced, and botanical — the Bronx Gin Citrus Cocktail remains a timeless bridge between the Martini and the Mimosa. Shake one up and rediscover this underrated classic.
