The history of the pousse cafe dates back to 1862 with the publication of “How to Mix Drinks” by Jerry Thomas. Jerry Thomas is considered the father of American mixology and his book set the standard for bartending and drink mixing that still lives on today. In this iconic book, Thomas includes five recipes for pousse cafe, one of which is the famous Pousse l'Amour.
The pousse cafe is a layered drink that is not only visually appealing but also showcases the artistry and skill of the bartender. The name “pousse cafe” is derived from the French word “pousser,” which means to push or layer. This technique involves carefully layering different colored liqueurs or spirits with varying densities to create distinct layers in the glass.
The Pousse l'Amour, also known as the “Love's Push,” is a classic pousse cafe recipe that is often associated with romance and special occasions. It consists of layers of grenadine, orange liqueur, and maraschino liqueur. The vibrant red, orange, and clear layers create a stunning visual effect that is sure to impress.
While Jerry Thomas popularized the pousse cafe in America, the concept of layered drinks can be traced back to European traditions. In fact, layered drinks have been enjoyed in Europe for centuries, with the famous Italian liqueur, the pousse-cafe, being one of the earliest examples.
The pousse-cafe liqueur was created in the 18th century and became a popular choice for layered drinks. It was made by infusing various fruits, spices, and herbs into a high-proof alcohol base. The resulting liqueur had a wide range of flavors and colors, making it ideal for layering in a pousse cafe.
The pousse cafe gained further popularity in the late 19th century and early 20th century, particularly in the United States. Bartenders would often showcase their skills by creating intricate layered drinks for their customers. These drinks became a symbol of sophistication and elegance, and were often enjoyed as a post-dinner treat or a celebratory cocktail.
In recent years, the pousse cafe has experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks to the craft cocktail movement. Bartenders and mixologists are once again exploring the art of layering and creating unique and visually stunning pousse cafe variations. The use of different liqueurs, spirits, and even non-alcoholic ingredients has expanded the possibilities for creating layered drinks with complex flavors and beautiful presentations.
Today, the pousse cafe remains a beloved and iconic cocktail that continues to captivate drinkers with its visual appeal and intricate layers. Whether enjoyed as a special treat or as a showcase of bartending skills, the pousse cafe is a testament to the artistry and creativity of the mixology world.