Cable Car

The bartending icon The Cable Car cocktail was developed by Tony Abou-Ganim, aka The Modern Mixologist, as a tribute to the iconic, vintage San Francisco transportation that passes by the Starlight Room, which he co-founded. San Francisco's cable cars are a symbol of a bygone era that still climb the city's hills and transport commuters—mostly tourists—up and down the bustling streets. They are the last manually operated cable car systems in the nation.

Discovering the Cable Car Cocktail: A Spiced Rum DelightIntroduction to the Cable Car Cocktail

The Cable Car cocktail is a delightful rum sour that combines sweet, tart, and lightly spiced flavors, making it a refreshing choice for cocktail enthusiasts. Inspired by the classic Sidecar, this drink replaces brandy with spiced rum, a unique twist that emerged during the cocktail renaissance of the late 1990s. With its roots in San Francisco's vibrant cocktail scene, the Cable Car showcases the creativity of mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim, helping to elevate the city as a trendsetting cocktail destination.

The Origins and Ingredients of the Cable Car

When the Cable Car was created, Captain Morgan was the most accessible brand of spiced rum. Today, while Captain Morgan remains a household name, several other brands offer excellent options for cocktail enthusiasts. Affordable choices like Cruzan and Bacardi provide great flavor without breaking the bank, while premium selections like Chairman’s Reserve from Saint Lucia, Boukman Botanical Rhum from Haiti, and Don Q Oak Barrel Spiced Rum from Puerto Rico elevate the experience with their complex profiles.

Key Ingredients

• Spiced Rum: The heart of the Cable Car. Brands like Captain Morgan or higher-end rums like Chairman’s Reserve add depth to the drink.
• Orange Liqueur: Traditionally, orange curaçao is used, but be cautious with sweeter options. Abou-Ganim recommends Marie Brizard orange curaçao, known for its balanced blend of bitter and sweet oranges. Other great alternatives include Cointreau and Grand Marnier.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Essential for balancing the sweetness and providing a bright, zesty flavor.
• Simple Syrup: Adds sweetness to the cocktail, enhancing the overall taste.
• Cinnamon-Sugar Rim: A unique twist on the classic sugared rim, lending warmth and spice.

Crafting the Perfect Cable Car CocktailIngredients

• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 cup sugar
• 1 lemon wedge
• 1 1/2 ounces spiced rum
• 3/4 ounce Marie Brizard orange curaçao
• 1 ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup
• Garnish: Orange spiral

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Rim: In a wide-mouthed bowl or saucer, stir together the ground cinnamon and sugar. Rub the rim of a chilled cocktail glass (or half of it) with the lemon wedge, then dip it into the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat. Set aside.
2. Mix the Cocktail: In a shaker, combine the spiced rum, orange curaçao, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and simple syrup. Add ice and shake vigorously until well-chilled.
3. Strain and Serve: Double-strain the mixture into the prepared cocktail glass to ensure a smooth pour.
4. Garnish: Finish with a spiral of orange peel for an elegant touch.

Conclusion

The Cable Car cocktail is not just a drink; it's a celebration of creativity and flavor. With its unique blend of spiced rum, citrus, and a hint of warmth from the cinnamon-sugar rim, it offers a delightful twist on classic cocktail recipes. Whether you're enjoying it at home or ordering it at a bar, the Cable Car is sure to impress. Dive into this modern classic and savor the flavors that make it a beloved choice among cocktail enthusiasts!

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