If you guessed the namesake of this rye whiskey cocktail was after the 25th US President, William McKinley, well, good on you because you are correct! It was fun coming across this unexpected gem of a find whilst looking into American Whiskey + American Presidents.
This one dates back to 1896 during the campaign of William McKinley. It was not uncommon for politicians to tee up cocktail namesakes back in the those days. Heck, “The Great Compromiser” and Kentucky native Henry Clay was said to have brought with him to D.C.an entire barrel of Bourbon to “lubricate the wheels of government”.
McKinley is perhaps best known for being shot and assassinated, but we thought this was a much better way to be remembered. Hope you enjoy it!
“McKinley Delight” Recipe
INGREDIENTS
- 3 oz. rye whiskey (shoot for at least 100 proof)
- 1 oz. sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes of cherry brandy
- 1 dash absinthe
METHOD
Mix ingredients in shaker. Add ice. Stir. Strain. Enjoy! (Lemon Peel garnish if available).
