What You Need To Make The ‘Nixon’ Cocktail: Recipe

The Nixon Cocktail

Created in 1969, the Nixon Cocktail is a classic rum-based concoction that has stood the test of time. Named after former United States President Richard Nixon, this simple yet sophisticated blend and sure to be a crowd pleaser at any gathering. The recipe’s creator remains unknown, though some believe it was named by an admirer of the President for his “tough as nails” approach.

The Nixon cocktail is a classic, lesser-known beverage that is said to have been a favorite of the 37th U.S. President, Richard Nixon. The drink is typically made with bourbon, sloe gin, and a touch of lemon juice. The Nixon cocktail is a relatively simple concoction, but its unique combination of ingredients creates a well-balanced and intriguing flavor profile.

While it’s unclear whether Nixon himself played a role in the creation of the cocktail or if it was merely named in his honor, the drink’s association with the President has certainly contributed to its allure and mystique.

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Nixon Cocktail Recipe

Course: Drinks

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz sloe gin
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• Ice
• Garnish: lemon twist or cherry optional

Instructions

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add the bourbon, sloe gin, and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
• Shake the mixture well until chilled and combined.
• Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
• Optionally, garnish with a lemon twist or cherry before serving.

Glassware

Typical or usual glassware used for mixing cocktails is usually martini glasses, highball glasses, and old-fashioned glasses.

Flavors

The flavor profile of the Nixon cocktail is characterized by a harmony of rich, fruity, and tart elements. The bourbon provides a strong and bold base, with its signature notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel.

The sloe gin, a red liqueur made from sloe berries and gin, imparts a fruity, sweet, and slightly bitter flavor that contrasts and complements the bourbon. The berries grow on the blackthorn bush, which is native to Europe, particularly the British Isles. Sloe gin is produced by steeping sloe berries in gin and adding sugar to sweeten the mixture. 

The fresh lemon juice adds a touch of acidity and brightness, cutting through the sweetness and providing balance to the drink.

3 tips for Making Your Nixon

• Choose a bourbon that you enjoy, as its flavor will significantly impact the drink.
• Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice. Fresh lemon juice adds a vibrant acidity and brightness to the drink, balancing the sweetness from the sloe gin and the richness of the bourbon.
• Use a fine-mesh strainer in addition to your regular cocktail strainer. Fine-straining results in a clearer, more polished cocktail with a smoother mouthfeel, enhancing the overall drinking experience.