As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have delved into the history of Patton's famous tank cocktail, known as the “Armored Diesel.” This legendary concoction is said to have been the general's own creation, and its recipe has been the subject of much speculation and debate.
While there is some consensus on the main ingredients of the Armored Diesel, such as Bourbon, shaved ice, sugar, and lemon juice, it is worth noting that Patton's preferences may have varied. Reports from contemporaries during his time suggest that he was just as likely to use whiskey or Scotch in his cocktail, depending on what was available.
To truly understand the recipe, it is important to consider the context of the era in which Patton lived. The Armored Diesel was not just a simple drink; it was a symbol of Patton's larger-than-life personality and his affinity for all things bold and daring. It embodied the spirit of the military and the resilience of the soldiers he commanded.
Now, let's get into the specifics of the Armored Diesel recipe. Here is a detailed breakdown of the ingredients and preparation:
1. Bourbon (or whiskey/Scotch): Patton's choice of spirits varied, but Bourbon seems to be the most commonly mentioned. The rich and robust flavors of Bourbon would have complemented the other ingredients and brought a certain depth to the cocktail.
2. Shaved ice: The use of shaved ice in the Armored Diesel is crucial for achieving the desired texture and temperature. It provides a refreshing element and helps to dilute the strong alcoholic flavors, making the drink more palatable.
3. Sugar: The addition of sugar adds sweetness and balances out the tartness of the lemon juice. It also enhances the overall flavor profile of the cocktail, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy notes.
4. Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is a crucial component of the Armored Diesel. Its acidic properties cut through the richness of the Bourbon and add a bright, citrusy element to the drink. The amount of lemon juice can be adjusted to personal taste preferences.
To prepare the Armored Diesel, one would typically follow these steps:
1. Fill a glass or cocktail shaker with shaved ice.
2. Add a measure of Bourbon (or whiskey/Scotch) to the glass, ensuring a generous pour to capture Patton's bold spirit.
3. Sprinkle sugar over the ice and Bourbon, adjusting the amount based on personal sweetness preference.
4. Squeeze fresh lemon juice directly into the glass, being mindful of the desired level of tartness.
5. Stir the ingredients together, allowing the flavors to meld and the ice to melt slightly, creating a well-balanced and chilled cocktail.
6. Optionally, the Armored Diesel can be garnished with a lemon twist or a sprig of mint for added visual appeal.
It is important to remember that the exact measurements and ratios of the ingredients may have varied depending on Patton's mood or the availability of resources. Personal taste preferences could also influence the final result, allowing for some experimentation and customization.
The recipe for Patton's tank cocktail, the Armored Diesel, is believed to have included Bourbon (or whiskey/Scotch), shaved ice, sugar, and lemon juice. While the exact proportions may remain a mystery, the combination of these ingredients would have created a bold and invigorating drink that embodied the spirit of General Patton himself.