Brooklyn

The story

The Brooklyn cocktail emerged in the early 20th century, with its exact origins debated. Some attribute it to the Brooklyn area of New York City, while others suggest it was created by a bartender named Walter Bergeron. Its unique combination of rye whiskey, dry vermouth, and maraschino liqueur contributed to its lasting popularity, especially during the Prohibition era when cocktails gained prominence.

How it tastes

The Brooklyn cocktail offers a complex balance of spicy rye whiskey, herbal dry vermouth, and the sweet, nutty notes of maraschino liqueur. It's typically served as an aperitif or during cocktail hours, making it suitable for social gatherings or dinner parties.

Getting it right

Key to a successful Brooklyn cocktail is the proper stirring technique. Stirring gently with ice ensures the drink is chilled without excessive dilution, preserving the integrity of the flavors. Using high-quality ingredients, particularly the rye whiskey and vermouth, also plays a crucial role in the final taste.

Variations

• Brooklyn No. 2 — This variation substitutes sweet vermouth for dry vermouth, offering a richer, sweeter flavor profile.
• The Red Hook — A modern twist, the Red Hook replaces dry vermouth with sweet vermouth and adds a splash of maraschino liqueur, creating a sweeter, more approachable drink.

Substitutions

• Rye Whiskey — Bourbon can be used as a substitute for rye whiskey, though it will alter the drink's spiciness.
• Dry Vermouth — White vermouth can be used in place of dry vermouth, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Questions

What is the difference between a Brooklyn and a Manhattan?

While both cocktails use whiskey and vermouth, the Brooklyn includes maraschino liqueur and bitters, offering a different flavor profile compared to the Manhattan's simple sweet vermouth and bitters.

Can I make a Brooklyn cocktail with bourbon?

Yes, you can substitute bourbon for rye whiskey in a Brooklyn cocktail. However, this will change the drink's character, making it sweeter and less spicy.

What type of bitters should I use?

Angostura bitters are commonly used in a Brooklyn cocktail, but you can experiment with orange bitters for a different flavor twist.

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

Updated October 5, 2026