We’ve always been captivated by the inventive cocktails from Death & Co, the iconic New York City bar that’s revolutionized modern mixology since its 2007 debut. Their recipes blend classic techniques with bold flavors, making them a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts worldwide.
Now we’re excited to share a few of these gems, so you can recreate that sophisticated vibe right in your kitchen. Whether you’re a home bartender or just starting out, these drinks promise to elevate your next gathering with ease and style.
Ingredients
In our exploration of Death & Co recipes, we focus on recreating the iconic Remember the Maine cocktail—a timeless blend of bold flavors that captures the bar’s innovative spirit since 2007. Below, we list the ingredients in the order they are used during preparation, with specific measurements and prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- 2 ounces rye whiskey: Use a high-quality rye for its spicy undertones; we recommend chilling it beforehand to enhance the cocktail’s smooth profile.
- 1 ounce sweet vermouth: Opt for a robust Italian variety; stir gently to preserve its herbal notes that complement the whiskey’s warmth.
- 0.5 ounce Cherry Heering: This cherry liqueur adds a sweet, fruity depth—measure precisely for the perfect balance without overpowering the mix.
- 1 barspoon absinthe: A small amount for an anise-forward rinse; swirl it in the glass first to coat the interior, evoking the sophisticated essence of Death & Co’s mixology.
For nutritional insights on this cocktail, we provide the following breakdown based on standard servings:
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cocktail) | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 180 | 9% |
| Carbohydrates | 12g | 4% |
| Sugars | 10g | N/A |
| Alcohol by Volume | 25% | N/A |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Values may vary by brand.
Required Tools
We understand that crafting cocktails like the iconic Remember the Maine from Death & Co requires the right equipment to ensure precision and elevate your home bar experience.
Essential Bar Equipment
To recreate the sophisticated cocktails from Death & Co, such as Remember the Maine, we recommend these essential bar tools. Each item plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect mix, balance, and presentation. Below, we’ve outlined the key equipment with descriptions for clarity:
- Jigger: This precise measuring tool is indispensable for accurate pours. We suggest a double-sided jigger with measurements like 1 oz and 2 oz to handle the rye whiskey and vermouth quantities without error.
- Mixing Glass: Opt for a sturdy, pint-sized mixing glass made of glass to stir ingredients smoothly. It’s ideal for building cocktails like Remember the Maine, allowing us to maintain the drink’s clarity and texture.
- Bar Spoon: A long, twisted bar spoon helps in gently stirring the cocktail to blend flavors without over-diluting. We rely on this for incorporating the absinthe and Cherry Heering effectively.
- Julep Strainer: This fine-mesh strainer ensures no ice shards or pulp enter your finished drink. It’s a must-have for straining Death & Co-style cocktails into a chilled glass.
- Cocktail Glass: Choose a elegant, coupe or Nick & Nora glass to serve your creation. This enhances the visual appeal and captures the bar’s innovative spirit, making your at-home experience feel professional.
| Tool | Key Features | Why It’s Essential for Remember the Maine |
|---|---|---|
| Jigger | Dual measurements (e.g., 1 oz, 2 oz) | Ensures precise ingredient ratios for balanced flavors. |
| Mixing Glass | Durable glass construction | Allows for proper dilution and chilling without shaking. |
| Bar Spoon | Long handle with twisted stem | Facilitates controlled stirring to maintain cocktail integrity. |
| Julep Strainer | Fine mesh for smooth straining | Prevents unwanted particles, ensuring a polished finish. |
| Cocktail Glass | Stemmed, elegant design | Elevates presentation, aligning with Death & Co’s aesthetic. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
We walk you through preparing the iconic Remember the Maine cocktail from Death & Co with expert precision. Our method ensures you capture the cocktail’s bold flavors and smooth texture right at home.
Preparation
Before we mix this classic cocktail let’s gather and prep our ingredients and tools for seamless execution. Start by chilling your cocktail glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes to enhance the drink’s refreshing appeal.
- Ingredients (as per our earlier list for Remember the Maine):
- 2 ounces high-quality rye whiskey (we recommend using a brand like Rittenhouse for its spicy notes)
- ¾ ounce robust Italian sweet vermouth (such as Carpano Antica for depth)
- ½ ounce Cherry Heering (for its sweet cherry essence)
- 1 barspoon absinthe (just enough for a subtle anise flavor)
- Tools:
- A jigger for accurate measurements
- A sturdy mixing glass filled with ice
- A long bar spoon for stirring
- A julep strainer to filter out solids
Measure each ingredient using your jigger and set them aside on your bar station to maintain workflow efficiency.
Mixing and Shaking
Now we blend the flavors to create the cocktail’s signature harmony stirring gently to preserve the spirits’ integrity as Death & Co does. Add the measured ingredients to your mixing glass filled with ice in this order: first the rye whiskey then the sweet vermouth followed by Cherry Heering and finally the absinthe.
Stir the mixture steadily for about 20 to 30 seconds using your long bar spoon until the liquid is well-chilled and diluted to perfection. We emphasize stirring over shaking here to avoid bruising the delicate spirits and to develop a silky mouthfeel that highlights the spicy rye robust Italian sweet vermouth and cherry undertones.
Straining and Serving
With the mixture ready we strain and serve to deliver a polished presentation that elevates the cocktail’s visual and sensory appeal. Place your julep strainer over the mixing glass and pour the contents into the pre-chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish simply with a twist of lemon peel expressing the oils over the drink for an aromatic burst then discard the peel. Serve immediately to savor the cocktail’s complex layers of spice sweetness and herbal notes ensuring your home bar rivals the innovative vibe of Death & Co.
Make-Ahead Tips
As cocktail enthusiasts, we often prepare elements of Death & Co recipes like the Remember the Maine cocktail in advance to streamline home bartending and preserve that innovative spirit. These strategies ensure your drinks remain fresh, flavorful, and ready for any gathering, allowing you to focus on the sensory experience of bold rye notes and aromatic absinthe.
Pre-Batching the Cocktail Base
To capture the essence of Death & Co’s precision, we recommend pre-batching the core ingredients for the Remember the Maine cocktail up to 24 hours ahead. This maintains the drink’s silky mouthfeel and balanced flavors without dilution. Here’s how:
- Measure and combine spirits: In a clean, sealed container, mix 2 ounces of high-quality rye whiskey, 1 ounce of Italian sweet vermouth, and 0.5 ounce of Cherry Heering. Stir gently to blend, then store in the refrigerator to keep the robust, spicy undertones intact.
- Absinthe rinse preparation: Prepare the absinthe rinse separately by coating the inside of your cocktail glass with a barspoon of absinthe and discarding the excess. You can do this up to 1 hour in advance and store the rinsed glass in the freezer for a frosty effect that enhances the cocktail’s refreshing chill.
Garnishes and Storage Tips
For an elevated presentation, we suggest prepping garnishes ahead to amplify the cocktail’s aromatic qualities and visual appeal. Proper storage is key to avoiding flavor loss.
| Tip Category | Recommended Action | Storage Duration | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lemon Peel Garnish | Use a peeler to create a wide twist from a fresh lemon, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. | Up to 2 days | Preserves the bright, citrusy aroma that complements the cocktail’s bold profile without overpowering the spirits. |
| Chilled Ingredients | Keep rye whiskey, vermouth, and Cherry Heering in the refrigerator to maintain optimal cold temperatures. | Up to 1 week | Ensures a smoother stir and prevents unwanted warming during mixing, leading to a more professional finish. |
Final Assembly Considerations
In our experience, assembling the full cocktail just before serving preserves its integrity, but you can have everything staged. We advise against full batching for more than a few hours due to the absinthe’s volatile nature, which could alter the drink’s intricate balance. Always stir with fresh ice right before straining to achieve that signature silky texture, ensuring your at-home version rivals the innovative vibe of Death & Co.
Conclusion
We’ve explored how Death & Co recipes bring innovative mixology to your home bar. It’s rewarding to craft these cocktails with precision and flair.
By using the right tools and techniques we’ve shared you’ll elevate your gatherings. Let’s raise a glass to creating memorable moments that capture the spirit of this iconic bar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Death & Co and its role in modern mixology?
Death & Co is a legendary New York City bar that opened in 2007, revolutionizing cocktails with a mix of classic techniques and bold flavors. It’s known for inspiring global cocktail enthusiasts by blending tradition with innovation, making high-quality drinks accessible and exciting.
What is the Remember the Maine cocktail?
The Remember the Maine is an iconic cocktail from Death & Co, featuring rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, Cherry Heering, and a hint of absinthe. It’s a stirred drink that balances rich, herbal notes with a smooth finish, capturing the bar’s creative spirit and offering a sophisticated taste for home bartenders.
What are the key ingredients for the Remember the Maine cocktail?
The main ingredients include 2 ounces of high-quality rye whiskey, 3/4 ounce of Italian sweet vermouth, 1/2 ounce of Cherry Heering, and a barspoon of absinthe. Use fresh, premium spirits for the best flavor, and don’t forget a lemon peel garnish for aroma and presentation.
How do you prepare the Remember the Maine cocktail?
Start by chilling a cocktail glass. Combine 2 oz rye whiskey, 3/4 oz sweet vermouth, 1/2 oz Cherry Heering, and a barspoon of absinthe in a mixing glass with ice. Stir until chilled, then strain into the glass and garnish with a lemon peel. This ensures a silky texture and balanced taste in just a few minutes.
What essential bar equipment is needed for making cocktails like Remember the Maine?
Key tools include a jigger for precise measuring, a mixing glass for blending, a bar spoon for gentle stirring, a julep strainer for smooth pouring, and a cocktail glass for serving. These items help maintain accuracy, enhance flavors, and elevate your home bar experience.
Can you make the Remember the Maine cocktail ahead of time?
Yes, pre-batch the core ingredients (whiskey, vermouth, and Cherry Heering) up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge. Prepare an absinthe rinse for the glass separately. Stir with fresh ice just before serving to keep the cocktail fresh, silky, and true to Death & Co’s style.
Are there nutritional insights for the Remember the Maine cocktail?
This cocktail typically has about 200-250 calories per serving, depending on brands. It contains alcohol from rye whiskey and vermouth, plus sugars from Cherry Heering. Enjoy responsibly as part of a balanced lifestyle, and remember it’s not a low-calorie option due to its spirit-heavy profile.