

The Old Pal
9 snips May 2, 2024
Rachel Kling, a National Educator at Diageo, shares her deep love for mixology and the intriguing Old Pal cocktail. They explore its rich history and connections to Prohibition-era culture, emphasizing its overshadowed status compared to the Negroni. The discussion dives into crafting the perfect Old Pal, highlighting modern ingredient combinations and techniques. Rachel also touches on the complexities of rye whiskey, the art of cocktail creation, and the importance of thoughtful garnishing, sparking inspiration for both novice and seasoned mixologists.
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Episode notes
Sparrow Robertson and the Old Pal
- The Old Pal is attributed to Harry McElhone, but a footnote in his book credits Sparrow Robertson.
- Robertson, a sporting editor, purportedly inspired the drink named in his honor.
Old Pal Ingredients and the Negroni
- Early Old Pal recipes mention Canadian Club whiskey and dry French vermouth.
- The Negroni wasn't mentioned in early editions, suggesting parallel cocktail innovation.
Serving the Old Pal
- Serve the Old Pal "up," unlike its cousin, the Boulevardier, which has more serving variations.
- This likely stems from the dry vermouth, which calls for less dilution.