How to Craft the Perfect Leap Year Cocktail

With the forthcoming leap day on Thursday, it is an opportune moment to delve into the distinctive traditions and customs associated with February 29th. One of the most captivating traditions is the Irish custom of women proposing to their male partners on this day. In line with this, there is also a special drink known as the Leap Year Cocktail, which is reputed to have generated more marriage proposals than any other cocktail in history.

The Leap Year Cocktail was conceived by Harry Craddock, a distinguished bartender at the American Bar in London’s Savoy Hotel. Drawing inspiration from his renowned White Lady cocktail, Craddock incorporated sweet vermouth into the mixture, resulting in a concoction that became one of the signature drinks in his acclaimed Savoy Cocktail Book of 1930.

To concoct the perfect Leap Year Cocktail, one would require gin, Grand Marnier, sweet vermouth, and a dash of lemon juice. The key to an exquisite cocktail lies in the meticulous selection of ingredients. For the gin, brands with orange notes such as Shortcross, Copeland, or Whitley Neill, can be excellent choices. Alternatively, utilizing Old Tom gin, which has a sweeter profile, can add an additional dimension to the drink.

In the realm of orange liqueur, the classic Grand Marnier offers a rich and intricate flavour profile, while Cointreau provides a lighter, more citrusy taste. As for the vermouth, whether it is the well-known Martini Rosso or the more exotic Lustau with its delightful orange blossom and spice notes, the choice ultimately lies in the hands of the individual.

Once the necessary ingredients have been acquired, it is time to commence the mixing process. Incorporate them into a shaker with an ample amount of ice and a few dashes of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Shake well and strain the concoction into chilled Martini glasses, garnished with a twist of lemon peel.

For enthusiasts of wine, the Muga Reserva 2019 from Bodegas Muga in Spain’s Rioja region stands out as a superlative choice. With its old-world traditions and ageing process, this complex red wine is perfect for harmonizing with a succulent rack of lamb.

In an unexpected turn of events, the popular Australian wine brand 19 Crimes is venturing into the realm of rum. Known for its pioneering marketing strategies, the brand’s spiced rum featuring the countenance of infamous convict Mary Bryant is poised to make waves in the spirit industry.

So, whether one is celebrating with a delightful Leap Year Cocktail or sipping on a glass of Muga Reserva, February 29th undeniably warrants a special place on the calendar. Who knows, it might even culminate in an unforgettable marriage proposal!