Ward Eight

Boston made a significant contribution to craft cocktails with the creation of the Ward Eight at the turn of the 20th century. Boston is said to have invented the cocktail in 1898 to commemorate Martin M. Lomasney's election to the state legislature. For 40 years, Lomasney was a powerful politician in Boston, holding positions as a state senator, representative, and political "boss" in the city's eighth ward.

Discovering the Ward Eight Cocktail: A Boston Classic

The Ward Eight cocktail is a timeless drink with a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century, originating at the renowned Locke-Ober Café in Boston’s eighth ward. This celebrated French restaurant and bar, a staple of the Boston dining scene for nearly two decades, closed its doors in 2012, but its legacy continues through cocktails like the Ward Eight.

A Taste of History

The origins of Ward Eight are steeped in local lore. Many accounts suggest that the cocktail was created in celebration of the electoral victory of a popular politician, Martin Lomasney. Interestingly, some tales even hint that the drink was crafted before Lomasney officially won his election, reflecting the bar staff’s confidence in his success. While rumors of questionable election tactics, such as distributing pre-filled ballots, swirl around his candidacy, Lomasney's popularity remained unquestionable.

The Recipe Breakdown

Essentially a twist on the classic Rye Whiskey Sour, the Ward Eight features a delightful balance of flavors. Orange juice complements the lemon juice of the classic whiskey sour, and grenadine is expertly substituted for simple syrup to create a sweet-tart flavor that is energizing and lively.

For decades, many cocktail enthusiasts relied on Rose’s grenadine, a product often associated with overly sweet flavors derived from corn syrup and artificial ingredients. Today, however, the bar scene has evolved, offering a plethora of options, including artisanal grenadine made with real fruit juice. For those seeking a more natural approach, crafting homemade grenadine is an excellent choice, utilizing freshly juiced pomegranates or high-quality store-bought juice.

How to Make the Ward Eight Cocktail

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces rye whiskey
• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 teaspoons grenadine
• Garnish: 2 or 3 speared cherries

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the rye whiskey, freshly squeezed lemon juice, freshly squeezed orange juice, and grenadine.
2. Shake: Shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
3. Strain: Strain the cocktail into a chilled cocktail glass.
4. Garnish: Add 2 or 3 speared cherries for an elegant touch.

Tips for Your Cocktail Experience

To extend the shelf life of your grenadine, consider adding vodka to your homemade version. This will keep it fresh for a longer period, making it a versatile addition to your cocktail repertoire. For those seeking other delicious drinks featuring grenadine, the Jack Rose, Tequila Sunrise, and Shirley Temple are excellent options. Just be mindful not to use vodka-infused grenadine for the non-alcoholic versions.

Conclusion

The Ward Eight cocktail not only tantalizes the taste buds but also serves as a delicious reminder of Boston’s vibrant history. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a curious beginner, this drink is sure to impress. Try making it at home and enjoy a taste of a classic that has stood the test of time. Cheers!