20th Century - An elegant classic with an unusual combination of gin, cocoa liquor and lemon. A sophisticated cocktail balancing sweet, sour and aromatic notes.
The 20th Century cocktail takes its name from the luxury train line that became a symbol of an era in America. The 20th Century Limited was an express line that started running between New York and Chicago in 1902 and was considered one of the most prestigious trains of the era. This train was not only a means of transportation, but also represented the speed and elegance of the modern world.
Created by British bartender C.A. Tuck in the 1930s, this cocktail took its name from this legendary train line and entered the bar world. At the time, cocktail menus were experimenting with new and bold flavor combinations. Gin and lemon are a classic pairing, but the addition of cocoa liquor was a rather unusual idea.
At first glance, the combination of chocolate flavor and lemon may seem strange. But when mixed in the right proportions, the result is surprisingly balanced. The cocoa liquor gives the cocktail a light sweetness and velvety texture, while the lemon juice gives the drink a zing. Lillet Blanc brings all these flavors together and provides an elegant binding to the blend.
“The most interesting paths in life are the ones that most people don't dare to try.”
The 20th Century cocktail is thus seen as a small but important experiment in the world of classic cocktails. It is both unorthodox and offers an unexpectedly harmonious profile. Light on the palate but with a distinct character.
Today, this cocktail is particularly common in classic bars and on the menus of cocktail enthusiasts. Its proportions are sometimes slightly adapted to modern tastes, but the basic idea is always the same: That a seemingly bold idea can, in the right balance, create a perfect harmony.
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Ingredients
Unit System
45 mlGin
20 mlWhite Cocoa Liqueur (Crème de Cacao)
20 mlLillet Blanc
20 mlFresh Lemon Juice
SomeIce
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Method
1
Add gin, cocoa liquor, Lillet Blanc and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
2
Shake vigorously with plenty of ice.
3
Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
4
Optionally flavor with lemon peel and serve.
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Bartender Tips
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Using freshly squeezed lemon juice is very important for the balance of the cocktail.
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Choosing white cocoa liquor keeps the aroma more elegant.
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Shaking the shaker vigorously reveals the silky texture of the cocktail.
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