Cocktails have been a staple of social gatherings and celebrations for centuries. But despite their popularity, there are many surprising facts about the history and culture of cocktails that most people don’t know. Here are seven surprising facts about the history and culture of cocktails that you may not have heard before.
1. The word “cocktail” is believed to have originated in the late 18th century. The word is thought to have been derived from the French word “coquetel”, which means “little egg cup”. This refers to the small glasses that were originally used to serve cocktails.
2. The first recorded use of the word “cocktail” was in a newspaper in 1806, in which it was described as a “stimulating liquor, composed of spirits of any kind, sugar, water, and bitters.
3. The first cocktails were primarily made with spirits, sugar, and bitters. It wasn’t until later that other ingredients such as fruit juices, syrups, and liqueurs were added to the mix.
4. The first cocktail book was published in 1862 by Jerry Thomas, a bartender in New York City. The book, called “The Bon-Vivant’s Companion”, included recipes for over 100 different cocktails.
5. Cocktails were originally considered to be a man’s drink, and it wasn’t until the early 20th century that women began to be seen drinking them in public.
6. The prohibition era in the United States, from 1920 to 1933, led to the creation of many new cocktails. Many of these were designed to mask the taste of illegally made alcohol.
7. The cocktail culture experienced a resurgence in the late 20th century, thanks in part to the popularity of TV shows such as “Mad Men” which featured characters frequently enjoying cocktails. Today, the craft cocktail scene continues to grow, with bartenders experimenting with new ingredients and techniques to create unique and delicious drinks.
Cocktails have a rich history and culture that spans centuries. From its humble beginnings as a simple mixture of spirits, sugar, and bitters, to the complex and creative creations of today, the cocktail has evolved to become a beloved and integral part of social gatherings and celebrations.