Seelbach is an elegant classic cocktail made with bourbon whiskey, orange liqueur and bitters, finished with sparkling wine. The combination of citrus and spicy flavors with sparkling wine creates a balanced and sophisticated drink.
The Seelbach cocktail originated at the historic Seelbach Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, USA. As the story goes, the cocktail was first prepared in 1917 by a bartender working at the hotel's bar. However, the recipe was forgotten over time and for many years was almost completely lost in the bar world.
During research in the hotel bar in the 1990s, an old recipe was rediscovered. This recipe was the Seelbach cocktail. When the cocktail was reintroduced to the menu, both locals and cocktail enthusiasts took a keen interest in it. Thus, an almost lost classic was revived.
“Sometimes the most beautiful discoveries come from remembering things that have been forgotten.”
Seelbach is one of the rare cocktails that combines the warm character of bourbon whisky with sparkling wine. Angostura and Peychaud's bitters give the drink a spicy and aromatic depth. Thanks to these characteristics, the Seelbach today holds a special place among classic American cocktails.
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Ingredients
Unit System
30 mlBourbon
15 mlOrange Liqueur (Cointreau)
7 dashesAngostura Bitters
7 dashesPeychaud's Bitters
90 mlChampagne or sparkling wine
·Ice
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Method
1
Add some ice to the mixing glass.
2
Add the bourbon, orange liqueur and bitters and stir briefly to chill the drink.
3
Strain the mixture into a champagne flute.
4
Top up the glass with the chilled sparkling wine.
5
Serve with a gentle stir.
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Bartender Tips
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Choosing a balanced and aromatic bourbon determines the character of the cocktail.
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The sparkling wine should be very cold - this makes the drink more refreshing.
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Squeezing the orange peel lightly over the glass enriches the aroma.
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