Delmonico Cocktail

A New York Legend in a Glass

The Delmonico Cocktail is a drink with deep roots in New York’s cocktail culture, famously associated with the storied Delmonico’s restaurant in Manhattan. A sophisticated blend of gin, brandy, vermouth, and bitters, it captures the elegance of Gilded Age drinking culture while still feeling fresh and relevant today.

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A Brief Background

Delmonico’s, opened in 1827, was one of the first fine dining restaurants in America. Its bartenders crafted drinks to match the opulence of the dining room, and the Delmonico Cocktail is believed to have originated there in the late 19th century. Recipes vary across old bar manuals, but most follow the same principle: a marriage of gin and brandy smoothed out with vermouth and sharpened by bitters. Think of it as a cousin to the Martini or the Manhattan—spirit-forward, refined, and built for sipping.

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What You’ll Need

• Gin – The backbone of the drink, bringing crisp botanicals and structure.
• Brandy – Adds warmth, depth, and a touch of fruitiness that complements the gin.
• Sweet Vermouth – Lends body and a gentle sweetness, tying the spirits together.
• Dry Vermouth – Provides balance with a herbal dryness.
• Angostura Bitters – Just a dash adds aromatic complexity and ties everything together.

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Why This Drink Stands Out

Bittersweet Harmony

The Delmonico strikes a unique balance. Where the Manhattan leans sweet and the Martini leans dry, this cocktail walks the line in between. The gin’s botanicals, the brandy’s richness, and the dual vermouths create a layered, bittersweet elegance with just enough spice from the bitters.

A True Conversation Starter

It’s not as widely ordered as the Martini or Old Fashioned, but that’s part of its charm. Ordering or serving a Delmonico shows you know your cocktail history and appreciate something off the beaten path.

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Substitutions & Variations

• Cognac for brandy – A slightly more luxurious, refined profile.
• Orange bitters – Swap in for Angostura to brighten the flavor.
• Richer gin styles – Old Tom gin can soften the edges, while London Dry keeps it sharp.
• Whiskey twist – Some old recipes call for rye instead of brandy, giving it a spicier backbone.

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Helpful Tips

• Chill your glass – A cold coupe or cocktail glass keeps the drink crisp.
• Don’t rush the stir – Give it 20–30 seconds with plenty of ice for a silky texture.
• Express the garnish – Squeeze the lemon peel over the drink to release aromatic oils before dropping it in.
• Pairing idea – The Delmonico’s bold, bittersweet profile pairs beautifully with savory appetizers like charcuterie, oysters, or rich cheeses.