Rattlesnake Cocktail: A Prohibition-Era Classic with a Bite

The Rattlesnake cocktail is a bold and intriguing drink that has captivated cocktail enthusiasts for over a century. Its origins trace back to the Prohibition era, a time when bartenders were crafting innovative recipes to mask the harshness of bootleg spirits. The Rattlesnake was first documented in Harry Craddock's The Savoy Cocktail Book in 1930, where it was described as a drink that could either cure a rattlesnake bite, kill rattlesnakes, or make you see them. This whimsical description highlights the cocktail's potent yet balanced nature, making it a favorite among adventurous drinkers.

Historically, the Rattlesnake cocktail gained popularity in speakeasies and underground bars during the 1920s and 1930s. Its combination of rye whiskey, lemon juice, sugar syrup, absinthe, and egg white created a complex and frothy drink that stood out among the era's offerings. The use of absinthe, with its distinct anise flavor, added an exotic touch that appealed to those seeking a unique drinking experience. Over time, the Rattlesnake has become a symbol of the creativity and resilience of the Prohibition-era cocktail culture.

To craft the perfect Rattlesnake cocktail, you will need two ounces of rye whiskey, three-quarters of an ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice, half an ounce of sugar syrup, a few dashes of absinthe, and half an ounce of egg white. Begin by dry shaking the ingredients (without ice) to emulsify the egg white, then add ice and shake again to chill the mixture. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with a lemon twist or a few drops of bitters for a visually striking finish. The result is a drink that balances the spiciness of rye whiskey with the tanginess of lemon and the herbal complexity of absinthe.

Modern variations of the Rattlesnake cocktail have emerged as bartenders experiment with different ingredients and techniques. Some versions replace absinthe with other anise-flavored liqueurs, such as pastis or sambuca, while others incorporate flavored bitters or honey syrup for a sweeter profile. The cocktail remains a staple in craft cocktail bars and speakeasies around the world, particularly in cities like New York, London, and San Francisco, where classic recipes are celebrated and reimagined.

Whether enjoyed as a nod to Prohibition-era ingenuity or as a bold and flavorful drink for a special occasion, the Rattlesnake cocktail continues to captivate and inspire. Its rich history, complex flavor profile, and striking presentation make it a timeless choice for cocktail enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 oz Whiskey

1 Egg White

Dash of Lemon Juice

1/2 tsp Anis

1/2 tsp Superfine Sugar

Mixing method:

Shake ingredients with ice cubes and strain into a cocktail glass. Make sure the Egg White is blended well with the other ingredients.

The rattlesnake takes its name from the process it takes to make this drink. One needs to break up the egg white by shakink it in a cocktail shaker with the lemon juice and the whiskey, later adding the ice cubes. Once chilled bring this cocktail to froth and strain using a fine-mesh into a cocktail glass.

This particular cocktail, and more fantastic top cocktail recipes can be found under the Alcoholic cocktails category.

Uncover the history and recipe of the Rattlesnake cocktail, a bold mix of rye whiskey, absinthe, and lemon. Explore its origins, variations, and enduring appeal in cocktail culture. An alcoholic drink with egg white

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