The Boulevardier cocktail, a classic and sophisticated drink, has an interesting history behind its creation. It was invented in the early 1920s by an American journalist named Erskine Gwynne, who was living in Paris at the time. Gwynne, like many expatriates of the era, found himself drawn to the vibrant and bohemian atmosphere of the city.
As an American living in Paris, Gwynne was undoubtedly exposed to the flourishing cocktail culture that was taking hold in the city during the 1920s. Paris was a hub of creativity and experimentation, and it was in this lively environment that Gwynne decided to try his hand at mixology.
The exact circumstances surrounding the creation of the Boulevardier are not widely known, but it is believed that Gwynne was inspired by two other classic cocktails – the Negroni and the Manhattan. The Negroni, a gin-based drink, was gaining popularity in Italy during this time, while the Manhattan, made with whiskey, was a staple in American bars.
Drawing from these influences, Gwynne sought to create a drink that combined the best of both worlds – the bitterness and complexity of the Negroni, with the rich and smooth character of the Manhattan. The result was the Boulevardier, a cocktail that perfectly balanced the flavors of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari.
It wasn't until 1927 that the Boulevardier was first officially recorded in Harry MacElhone's book, Barflies and Cocktails. MacElhone, a renowned bartender and owner of the famous Harry's New York Bar in Paris, included the recipe for the Boulevardier in his book, solidifying its place in the cocktail canon.
Since then, the Boulevardier has become a beloved classic, enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world. Its timeless appeal lies in its perfect marriage of flavors – the warm and oaky notes of bourbon, the sweetness of vermouth, and the bitter complexity of Campari. It is a cocktail that stands the test of time, a testament to the artistry and creativity of its creator, Erskine Gwynne.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of both making and enjoying Boulevardier cocktails. Each time I mix one up, I am reminded of the rich history and tradition that lies behind this exquisite drink. It is a cocktail that transports you to another era, evoking the glamour and sophistication of 1920s Paris.
To make a Boulevardier, simply combine equal parts bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir gently to chill the ingredients and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a twist of orange peel, and enjoy the complex and harmonious flavors that this cocktail has to offer.
The Boulevardier cocktail is a true gem in the world of mixology, and its invention by Erskine Gwynne in the early 1920s has left an indelible mark on cocktail history. Whether enjoyed in a bustling bar or crafted at home, the Boulevardier continues to captivate and delight cocktail enthusiasts to this day.