The Old Pal cocktail is said to have originated at Harry's Bar in Paris, thanks to the creativity and inspiration of Harry MacElhone, the owner and bartender. This classic cocktail is a tribute to MacElhone's old friend, William “Sparrow” Robertson, a journalist who played a significant role in its creation.
MacElhone often credited Robertson as the source of inspiration for the Old Pal cocktail. The name itself suggests a long-standing friendship and camaraderie between the two. It's fascinating to see how friendships can influence the creation of new drinks and add a personal touch to the cocktail world.
While the exact details of how the Old Pal came about may be lost in time, it is believed that MacElhone crafted this cocktail to pay homage to his dear friend. The Old Pal cocktail is a variation of two other classic cocktails, the Boulevardier and the Negroni, both of which MacElhone was familiar with.
The Boulevardier is a whiskey-based cocktail that substitutes bourbon for gin in a Negroni. MacElhone, being a skilled mixologist, decided to put his own twist on this drink by using rye whiskey instead. This substitution gave the Old Pal its distinctive flavor profile and set it apart from its predecessors.
The Old Pal cocktail comprises equal parts rye whiskey, dry vermouth, and Campari. This combination creates a complex and balanced cocktail, with the bitterness of Campari complementing the smoothness of the rye whiskey. The dry vermouth adds a touch of sophistication and complexity to the overall flavor profile.
It's interesting to note that the Old Pal cocktail was created during the Prohibition era when the availability of ingredients was limited. MacElhone's creativity in using what was at hand showcases the resourcefulness of bartenders during that time.
The Old Pal cocktail has stood the test of time and remains a beloved classic in the cocktail world. Its origins at Harry's Bar in Paris add a touch of nostalgia and history to the drink. Whenever I sip on an Old Pal, I can't help but imagine the conversations and camaraderie shared between MacElhone and Robertson, and how their friendship inspired this timeless libation.
The Old Pal cocktail originated at Harry's Bar in Paris, thanks to the ingenuity and inspiration of Harry MacElhone. This drink pays tribute to his old friend, William “Sparrow” Robertson, and showcases the creativity and resourcefulness of bartenders during the Prohibition era. The Old Pal remains a classic cocktail with a rich history and a beautiful story behind its creation.