Dating back to the early 20th century, the American Beauty cocktail was likely named to reflect both its stunning appearance and its rich, luxurious ingredients. The cocktail represents a perfect balance of sweet, fruity, and herbal flavors, making it a delightful option for those who enjoy a layered and elegant drink. Its use of red wine as a finishing touch adds a unique and indulgent twist that sets it apart from other classic cocktails.
The American Beauty’s base is typically brandy, providing warmth and depth to the drink. Sweet vermouth adds a touch of herbal sweetness, while freshly squeezed orange juice lends a bright, citrusy note. Grenadine, a pomegranate-flavored syrup, deepens the color and adds a sweet fruitiness. A dash of crème de menthe gives the cocktail a subtle minty freshness, and the crowning element—a float of red wine—adds a rich, velvety texture and a stunning visual contrast.
To make the American Beauty cocktail, start by filling a shaker with ice. Add 1 ounce of brandy, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, 1 ounce of freshly squeezed orange juice, and 1 teaspoon of grenadine. Shake the mixture well to chill and blend the flavors. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or martini glass. Gently float 1/2 ounce of red wine on top of the drink by slowly pouring it over the back of a spoon. For a final touch, add a dash of crème de menthe, which can be floated on top of the wine or stirred into the drink, depending on your preference. Garnish with an orange twist or a cherry for added elegance.
One of the most unique aspects of the American Beauty cocktail is the combination of flavors and textures. The brandy and vermouth provide a rich, smooth base, while the orange juice adds brightness and the grenadine sweetens the drink. The float of red wine not only enhances the cocktail’s appearance but also adds a layer of richness and complexity. The crème de menthe adds a surprising hint of mint that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.
The American Beauty is best enjoyed slowly, allowing the layers of flavor to unfold as you sip. It's a great choice for an after-dinner drink or when you want something a bit more luxurious. While the recipe may seem complex, it’s easy to make with a little practice and delivers a drink that is sure to impress guests.
1 tsp Grenadine
1 oz Orange Juice
1/2 oz Dry Vermouth
1/2 oz Port
1/2 tsp White Creme de Menthe
Mixing tips:
- **Float the red wine carefully**: To achieve the perfect layered look, pour the red wine slowly over the back of a spoon to prevent it from mixing with the rest of the drink. This creates the beautiful American Beauty effect.
- **Use fresh juice**: Freshly squeezed orange juice adds a vibrant, natural sweetness to the cocktail, elevating the overall flavor and making the drink more refreshing.
- **Choose a quality red wine**: Since the red wine is floated on top of the drink, its flavor is more prominent. Opt for a dry red wine like a cabernet sauvignon or merlot to add depth without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- **Experiment with proportions**: If you prefer a stronger mint flavor, add an extra dash of crème de menthe. For a fruitier version, increase the amount of grenadine or orange juice to suit your taste.
The American Beauty cocktail is a timeless classic that delivers both visual appeal and a delightful mix of flavors. It’s a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a sophisticated and luxurious drink, whether it’s at a special occasion or simply as an indulgent treat after dinner. Garnish with a simple rose petal! This cocktail punch is best served in a martini tall glass with crushed ice. One can experiment with a hint of peppermint as well to give more zing to this vermouth based cocktail.
This particular cocktail, and more fantastic top cocktail recipes can be found under the Alcoholic cocktails category.
Discover the American Beauty cocktail, a luxurious mix of brandy, vermouth, orange juice, grenadine, and a float of red wine. Learn how to create this visually stunning and flavorful classic. A cocktail punch made with creme de menthe and brandy
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