The fun history and evolution of the Cocktail
Penned by our wonderful resident Sassy Saucepot, Davina Mccool
Happy Friday to all my lovely readers! Today I want to talk to you about something that I am super passionate about - cocktails! But not just any cocktails, I want to delve into the history and evolution of the beloved drink. From its humble beginnings to the trendy concoctions we enjoy today, the cocktail has come a long way.
The origins of the cocktail can be traced back to the 18th century. At the time, it was simply a mixture of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters. These early cocktails were mostly consumed by men and were seen as a way to mask the taste of harsh spirits. But as time went on, cocktail culture began to evolve.
Fast forward to the 19th century, and the cocktail had become a more refined and sophisticated drink. Bartenders began to experiment with different ingredients, and new cocktails like the Martini and the Manhattan were born. The introduction of ice, and the invention of the cocktail shaker, also played a big role in the evolution of the drink.
The 20th century saw the rise of the cocktail culture. With the prohibition era, speakeasies and illegal drinking establishments became all the rage, and the cocktail became a symbol of rebellion and sophistication. The post-war era also saw a surge in cocktail culture, with the rise of the tiki culture, and the popularity of the Mai Tai and the Margarita.
And finally, the 21st century has seen a new wave of cocktail culture, with the rise of mixology and craft cocktails. Bartenders are now using unique and unexpected ingredients, and the focus is on creating a unique and personalised experience for the customer. From molecular mixology to the use of edible flowers, the possibilities are endless when it comes to creating new and exciting cocktails.
So there you have it, folks. The history and evolution of the cocktail is a fascinating journey. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a trendy and sophisticated drink, the cocktail has come a long way. So, next time you raise your glass, take a moment to appreciate the history and evolution that has gone into creating the delicious drink in your hand.
Cheers!
