20th Century

The story

The 20th Century cocktail is believed to have been created in the early 20th century, possibly in the 1930s. It was named after the famous train, the 20th Century Limited, which ran between New York and Chicago. The drink combines a unique blend of flavors, showcasing the versatility of gin and other ingredients. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its refreshing taste and the revival of classic cocktails in modern bars.

How it tastes

The 20th Century cocktail features a balanced profile of sweetness from the crème de cacao, tartness from the lemon juice, and a hint of anise from the Pernod rinse. It's best served as a pre-dinner drink or during cocktail hours, offering a refreshing yet complex flavor experience.

Getting it right

The key to a successful 20th Century cocktail lies in the proper shaking technique. Ensure that you shake the ingredients vigorously with ice to achieve a well-chilled and diluted drink. The rinse of Pernod adds an aromatic layer that should not be overlooked, as it enhances the overall flavor.

Variations

• 20th Century with Gin — The original recipe typically uses gin instead of tequila, providing a different botanical profile.
• Chocolate 20th Century — Substituting dark crème de cacao for the white version creates a richer, more chocolate-forward drink.

Substitutions

• Siete Leguas Blanco Tequila — Any quality blanco tequila can be used as a substitute.
• Marie Brizard Crème de Cacao — Other brands of crème de cacao, such as Bols or Godiva, can work well.

Questions

Can I make this cocktail without Pernod?

Yes, while Pernod adds a unique flavor, you can omit it or substitute it with another anise-flavored liqueur like absinthe.

What glass should I use for the 20th Century?

The 20th Century cocktail is traditionally served in a coupe glass, which enhances its elegant presentation.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the 20th Century?

Creating a non-alcoholic version would involve replacing the tequila and crème de cacao with non-alcoholic alternatives, though the flavor profile will differ significantly.

This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.

Updated October 5, 2026