Scofflaw

Ordering what most people actually drank during Prohibition might make your next visit to your favorite speakeasy-style watering hole more authentic. (And keep in mind: The objective of the front door peephole back then was to keep the police away long enough to conceal the alcohol.)

The Scofflaw Cocktail: A Prohibition Era Classic

The Scofflaw cocktail is a fascinating piece of drinking history that emerged during the Prohibition era in the United States. While many romanticize the era as one filled with elaborate cocktails crafted to mask the poor quality of illicit spirits, the reality was often much simpler. If you were seeking a true speakeasy drink back then, you might have opted for a glass of Champagne or a straightforward Ginger Ale Highball. The Scofflaw, however, stands out as a remarkable creation that embodies the spirit of rebellion against the Prohibition laws.

The Birth of the Scofflaw

"Scofflaw" was popularized in 1924 during a contest organized by Delcevare King, a prominent prohibitionist. He invited the public to create a word that would capture the essence of someone who defied the law—specifically, a lawless drinker. The term quickly became popular, and Jock, a bartender at Harry's New York Bar in Paris, where the cocktail was supposedly created, cemented its association with it.

Interestingly, while the Scofflaw cocktail is often linked to the Prohibition era, it was not born in a secretive speakeasy in Chicago. Instead, it emerged in a lively bar atmosphere, showcasing the global influence of American drinking culture.

Ingredients That Make the Scofflaw Shine

Originally, the Scofflaw cocktail consisted of a mix of rye whiskey, French vermouth, lemon juice, and grenadine. The formula was balanced—1/3 rye whiskey, 1/3 French vermouth, 1/6 lemon juice, and 1/6 grenadine. However, as tastes evolved, so did the recipe. Today’s Scofflaw often features bourbon or rye whiskey, dry vermouth, fresh lemon juice, grenadine, and a dash of bitters. This refined version is both flavorful and refreshing, making it a perfect choice for modern cocktail enthusiasts.

Updated Scofflaw Recipe

Here’s how to craft a contemporary Scofflaw cocktail:

Ingredients

• 2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey: Choose a high-quality whiskey to enhance the drink's depth and character.
• 1 ounce dry vermouth: Adds a touch of herbal complexity.
• 1/4 ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed: Provides a bright citrus note.
• 1 to 2 dashes grenadine: For a hint of sweetness and a beautiful color.
• 1 dash orange bitters: Enhances the drink’s complexity with citrus undertones.

Preparation Steps

1. Mix Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the whiskey, dry vermouth, lemon juice, grenadine, and orange bitters.
2. Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled.
3. Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass, allowing the flavors to shine.

The Legacy of the Scofflaw

The Scofflaw cocktail serves as a delightful reminder of a time when creativity flourished amid restrictions. While many cocktails from the Prohibition era aimed to disguise poor-quality alcohol, the Scofflaw stands out for its balanced and appealing flavors. As drinks historian David Wondrich notes, few cocktails can claim a legitimate American origin from the Prohibition era, making the Scofflaw a unique piece of cocktail heritage.

So, the next time you raise a glass in celebration of the repeal of Prohibition, consider toasting with a Scofflaw. It’s not just a cocktail; it’s a tribute to a time of defiance, creativity, and the enduring spirit of mixology. Cheers to enjoying drinks that allow our consciences to rest easy!