The Cosmopolitan, often referred to as a “Cosmo,” is a popular cocktail known for its vibrant pink color. The question of why the Cosmo is pink can be traced back to its origins and the specific ingredients used in its creation.
One story surrounding the creation of the Cosmo comes from bartender Cheryl Cook, who claims to have invented the drink in 1989. According to Cook, she was making a Kamikaze cocktail, which typically consists of vodka, triple sec, and lime juice. However, Cook decided to add a twist by adding “just enough cranberry to make it pretty in pink.” This addition of cranberry juice not only gave the cocktail its signature pink hue but also added a hint of tartness to balance out the sweetness.
The addition of cranberry juice is what gives the Cosmo its distinct pink color. Cranberry juice is naturally vibrant and has a reddish-pink hue. When mixed with the clear spirits like vodka and triple sec, the cranberry juice imparts its color, resulting in the iconic pink shade of the Cosmo.
Furthermore, the color pink is often associated with femininity, elegance, and sophistication. The pink color of the Cosmo may have been intentionally chosen to appeal to a predominantly female audience. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, when the Cosmo gained popularity, pink was a fashionable and trendy color. By showcasing a visually appealing pink cocktail, bartenders were able to attract female customers and create a sense of glamour and style.
It's worth noting that the popularity of the Cosmo was further boosted by its portrayal in popular culture. The Cosmopolitan gained significant attention through its association with the television series “Sex and the City.” The show's main characters often gathered at their favorite NYC hotspots, sipping on pink Cosmos, which added to the cocktail's allure and popularity.
The Cosmopolitan is pink primarily because of the addition of cranberry juice, which imparts its vibrant reddish-pink color to the cocktail. The choice of pink may have been influenced by fashion trends and the desire to attract a predominantly female audience. The pink color, along with the cocktail's sophistication and association with popular culture, has contributed to its enduring popularity.