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Junior Drink recipe

Cocktail glass

Looking for a smooth and sophisticated drink to impress your guests? Try our Junior cocktail recipe! Made with Whisky Rye, Benedictine, Bitters, Lime juice, and ice, this drink is perfect for any occasion. Use a shaker with strainer and juicer to ensure the perfect blend. Impress your guests with your bartending skills and make the perfect Junior cocktail today!


Junior Ingredients

Junior Equipment

  • shaker with strainer - get rid of large pieces of ingredients (ex: fruit parts, seeds)
  • juicer, squeezer manual or automatic - if you mind using fresh juice

Junior Recipe

  1. consider making fresh Lime juice you can press fruit yourself (be careful - fresh juice stays good only 12 hours)
  2. fill a shaker half full with ice cubes to chill all the ingredients properly
  3. shake till perfectly chilled
  4. fill glass

The Junior Cocktail: A Timeless Classic

As a professional bartender, I have seen countless cocktail trends come and go. But one drink that has stood the test of time is the Junior Cocktail. This classic drink has been enjoyed by generations of cocktail lovers, and for good reason. In this article, we will explore the history and origins of the Junior Cocktail, the role of its ingredients, how to garnish it, variations of the drink, common mistakes when making it, and more.

The Popularity of the Junior Cocktail

The Junior Cocktail has been around for over a century, and its popularity has never waned. This drink is famous for its strong, complex flavors that come from a combination of whisky, bitters, and lime juice. The origin of the Junior Cocktail is unclear, but some believe it was first created in the United States during the early 1900s.

The Junior Cocktail is also known for its unique appearance. It is typically served in a stemmed glass, and its deep red color comes from the addition of bitters. The drink's name is said to come from its size, as it was originally served in a smaller glass than other cocktails of the time.

While the Junior Cocktail has its roots in the United States, its popularity has spread around the world. It is now enjoyed in cocktail bars and restaurants in every corner of the globe.

The Role of Ingredients in the Junior Cocktail

The Junior Cocktail's ingredients play an important role in its flavor profile. Here is a breakdown of each ingredient's role:

  • Whisky Rye: This is the base spirit of the Junior Cocktail. The spicy, robust flavor of rye whisky is a perfect match for the bitter and sour notes of the other ingredients.

  • Benedictine: This herbal liqueur adds a complex sweetness to the drink, with notes of honey, vanilla, and spice.

  • Bitters: Bitters are an essential ingredient in the Junior Cocktail, providing the drink with its signature bitter flavor. Angostura bitters are the most commonly used type of bitters in this cocktail, but other brands can be used as well.

  • Lime juice: The lime juice in the Junior Cocktail provides a tart, citrusy note that helps balance out the sweetness of the Benedictine.

How to Garnish the Junior Cocktail

Garnishing the Junior Cocktail is simple, but important. A well-garnished cocktail not only looks beautiful but also enhances the drink's aroma and flavor. Here are some tips on how to garnish the Junior Cocktail:

  • Lemon or lime twist: The most common garnish for a Junior Cocktail is a twist of lemon or lime. Simply cut a thin strip of the fruit's peel, twist it over the drink to release its oils, and drop it into the glass.

  • Cherry: A maraschino cherry is another classic garnish for the Junior Cocktail. It adds a pop of color to the drink and a sweet, fruity flavor.

  • Orange peel: For a twist on the classic lemon or lime garnish, try using a strip of orange peel. It adds a subtle citrus flavor and a beautiful orange hue to the drink.

Variations of the Junior Cocktail

The Junior Cocktail is a versatile drink that can be adapted to suit a variety of tastes and dietary restrictions. Here are some variations of the drink:

  • Virgin/mocktail version: To make a non-alcoholic version of the Junior Cocktail, simply omit the whisky and double the amount of lime juice. Add a splash of sparkling water for some fizz.

  • Gluten-free version: All the ingredients in the Junior Cocktail are gluten-free, so no substitutions are necessary.

  • Vegan version: The Junior Cocktail is already vegan, as none of its ingredients come from animal sources.

  • Keto version: To make a keto-friendly version of the Junior Cocktail, use a sugar-free simple syrup instead of Benedictine, and substitute the lime juice with lemon juice to reduce the carb count.

  • Low-calorie version: The Junior Cocktail is not a low-calorie drink, but you can reduce the calorie count by using a sugar-free simple syrup instead of Benedictine, and cutting the amount of whisky in half.

Common Mistakes When Making the Junior Cocktail

Making a great Junior Cocktail is all about balance. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

  • Using too much or too little bitters: The bitters in the Junior Cocktail are a key ingredient, but it's important to use the right amount. Too much bitters can overwhelm the other flavors, while too little can make the drink too sweet.

  • Using the wrong type of whisky: Rye whisky is the traditional base spirit for the Junior Cocktail, but other types of whisky can be used as well. However, be sure to choose a whisky with a bold, spicy flavor that can stand up to the other ingredients.

  • Skipping the garnish: A well-garnished cocktail is a thing of beauty, and the Junior Cocktail is no exception. Don't skimp on the garnish, as it adds both visual appeal and flavor to the drink.

  • Using bottled juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for a great Junior Cocktail. Bottled juice can be too sweet and lack the tartness that balances out the other flavors.

In conclusion, the Junior Cocktail is a timeless classic that has earned its place in cocktail history. With its strong, complex flavors and unique appearance, it is a drink that will never go out of style. Whether you prefer the traditional recipe or one of the many variations, the Junior Cocktail is sure to impress. So why not mix one up tonight and discover why this drink has been beloved for over a century?

If you are going to order Junior in a bar, don’t forget to mention all the ingredients to the bartender. Junior can be served with different ingredients in different places.