Ward Eight Cocktail

The Ward Eight cocktail is a blend of rye whiskey, grenadine, lemon juice, and orange juice. Its simple yet precise combination of ingredients makes for a delightful and well-balanced drink.

The Ward Eight cocktail’s history can be traced back to the late 19th century, specifically to the Gilded Age in Boston. It was during this time that this city, with its thriving political scene and burgeoning cocktail culture, became the birthplace of numerous cocktails, including the Ward Eight. The story goes that the cocktail was first concocted in the late 1800s at the Locke-Ober Café, a renowned dining establishment in Boston. This legendary drink is believed to have been created to celebrate a political victory in the city’s Eighth Ward, hence its name.

Beyond its delectable taste, the Ward Eight cocktail carries a significant cultural legacy. It serves as a reminder of Boston’s storied past and its role in shaping American politics. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Boston was a hotbed of political activity, and the Eighth Ward was particularly influential. The cocktail’s creation to commemorate a political victory in this ward symbolizes the intertwining of Boston’s political and cocktail cultures.

Furthermore, the Ward Eight’s enduring popularity speaks to its timelessness and ability to resonate with cocktail enthusiasts of all generations. It has stood the test of time, remaining a staple on cocktail menus around the world. The cocktail’s combination of sweet and sour flavors, along with the warmth of the whiskey, appeals to a wide range of palates.

Ward Eight Recipe

1. 60 ml rye whiskey

2. 15 ml fresh lemon juice

3. 15 ml fresh orange juice

4. 15 ml grenadine

5. Ice

6. Garnish: Luxardo cherry on a cocktail pick