Pegu Club

When it comes to the classic cocktails of the Golden Age, the Pegu Club is not as well-known as the Sazerac, Mint Julep, and Martini. However, it is a must-have classic, the gin counterpart of sours like the Daiquiri and Margarita, and the origin of the drink even served as the inspiration for the renowned craft cocktail bar of the same name in New York City.

The Pegu Club Cocktail: A Classic with a Rich History

The Pegu Club cocktail has its roots in the early 20th century, named after a British social club located just outside Rangoon, which is now known as Yangon, Myanmar. This club, like many in Southeast Asia during the colonial period, served as a gathering place for British officials seeking relaxation and camaraderie in their newly colonized territories. The cocktail gained fame when it was featured in the esteemed Savoy Cocktail Book by legendary bartender Harry Craddock, further solidifying its place in cocktail history.

Understanding the Pegu Club Cocktail

Fundamentally, the Pegu Club cocktail is a modification of the traditional Gin Sour, with the addition of bitters and the removal of egg whites. It offers a refreshing balance of flavors, utilizing orange liqueur instead of simple syrup, reminiscent of the Sidecar cocktail. This substitution not only enhances the sweetness but also adds a layer of citrus complexity.

Key Ingredients

To craft a perfect Pegu Club cocktail, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 ounces Gin: A good-quality gin provides the drink’s botanical foundation.
• 3/4 ounce Orange Curaçao: This orange-flavored liqueur adds sweetness and depth. While Cointreau is a popular choice, traditional recipes often call for orange curaçao.
• 1/2 ounce Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the cocktail and balances the sweetness.
• 1 Dash Angostura Bitters: A classic bitter that adds complexity without overwhelming the drink.
• 1 Dash Orange Bitters: Enhances the citrus notes and provides an additional layer of flavor.

The Preparation Method

Making a Pegu Club cocktail is both straightforward and rewarding. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:

Steps

1. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the gin, orange curaçao, freshly squeezed lime juice, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters.
2. Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled. This ensures that the ingredients meld together and the cocktail is perfectly chilled.
3. Double-Strain: Double-strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass. This technique helps remove any ice shards and creates a smooth finish.

The Role of Bitters

Adding bitters to the Pegu Club cocktail sets it apart from other sours. While many classic sours omit bitters, the Pegu Club benefits from a dash of both Angostura and orange bitters. This combination enhances the drink’s complexity without overpowering the gin’s botanical notes or the brightness of the lime juice. Additionally, the bitters impart a subtle golden hue to the cocktail, making it visually appealing.

A Resurgence in Popularity

Although the Pegu Club cocktail experienced a decline in popularity following Prohibition, it has seen a significant revival over the past decade. The now-closed Pegu Club bar in New York played a pivotal role in this resurgence, introducing a new generation of cocktail enthusiasts to this classic drink. As a result, the Pegu Club cocktail has earned its rightful place on any list of essential classic cocktails, making it a must-try for every cocktail lover.

Conclusion

The Pegu Club cocktail is more than just a drink; it embodies a rich history and offers a delightful blend of flavors that appeal to modern palates. With its refreshing taste and elegant presentation, this cocktail is perfect for any occasion, from sophisticated gatherings to casual evenings at home. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a curious novice, the Pegu Club cocktail is a classic that deserves a spot in your repertoire. Cheers to indulging in a taste of history!