XYZ Cocktail

The XYZ Cocktail is an elegant cocktail made of only 3 ingredients: white rum, Cointreau, and fresh lemon juice.

The XYZ Cocktail made its debut in The Savoy Cocktail Book, a seminal work authored by legendary bartender Harry Craddock in 1930. The Savoy Hotel in London, where Craddock was the head bartender, was a bastion of elegance and sophistication during the Prohibition era. As the cocktail culture flourished clandestinely in speakeasies across the Atlantic, The Savoy Cocktail Book became a beacon of mixological inspiration.

The XYZ Cocktail, as documented by Craddock, was a simple yet sophisticated concoction that showcased the artistry of cocktail craftsmanship. The original recipe featured 1/2 part Bacardi rum, 1/4 part Cointreau, and 1/4 part lemon juice. This trio of ingredients created a drink that was both refreshing and complex, exemplifying the principles of classic cocktails.

As the cocktail renaissance has swept through the modern era, mixologists and bartenders have revisited classic recipes, breathing new life into timeless cocktails. This cocktail has not been exempt from this revival, with contemporary adaptation showcasing a deep understanding of flavor profiles and a willingness to experiment with new ingredients.

The contemporary XYZ Cocktail retains the spirit of its predecessor while amplifying certain elements to cater to evolving palates. The increased proportion of white rum enhances the cocktail’s base spirit, providing a robust foundation for the citrusy notes of Cointreau and the zesty kick of fresh lemon juice. This updated version maintains the original’s commitment to balance, ensuring that no single ingredient dominates the drinking experience.

XYZ Cocktail Recipe

1. 60 ml white rum

2. 22.5 ml Cointreau

3. 22.5 ml fresh lemon juice

4. Ice

5. Garnish: lemon twist