Toronto Cocktail – How to Make a Perfect Whiskey and Fernet Drink
The Toronto Cocktail is a timeless drink known for its bold, balanced flavors of rye whiskey and Fernet-Branca. This cocktail combines bitterness and sweetness, creating a unique tasting experience. Although not as widely known as other classic cocktails, its rich flavors make it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
In this article, you’ll learn the history of the Toronto Cocktail, how to make it, and how to pair it with food. I’ll also suggest variations and provide helpful internal links from Cook It Simple to further enhance your drink-making knowledge.
The History of the Toronto Cocktail
The Toronto Cocktail first appeared in print in Robert Vermeire’s 1922 cocktail book. It gained recognition for its mix of Canadian rye whiskey and Fernet-Branca, an Italian amaro known for its herbal bitterness. This drink is often compared to the Old-Fashioned, but it stands out due to its distinctive bitterness, which balances the sweetness of the syrup.
This cocktail reflects the resurgence of interest in classic cocktails, similar to the popularity of the New York Sour Cocktail, another whiskey-based favorite. The Toronto Cocktail offers a sophisticated alternative for those looking to try something new.
Key Ingredients of the Toronto Cocktail
Rye Whiskey
The foundation of the Toronto Cocktail is rye whiskey, which brings a spicy and robust flavor. While Canadian rye whiskey is the preferred choice, you can experiment with different types of whiskey to see how it influences the taste. The rye’s warmth contrasts nicely with the bitterness of the other ingredients.
Fernet-Branca
Fernet-Branca is a herbal amaro that adds a strong, bitter complexity to the drink. Its bold, bitter profile is what sets the Toronto Cocktail apart from other whiskey cocktails. The bitterness from the Fernet balances the smoothness of the whiskey, making this drink stand out.
Simple Syrup or Demerara Syrup
A touch of simple syrup or demerara syrup provides sweetness, rounding out the cocktail’s flavors. Using demerara syrup, which has a richer, caramel-like sweetness, can create a deeper flavor profile. You can adjust the sweetness depending on your preference.
Angostura Bitters
Angostura bitters add complexity and depth to the cocktail. Just a couple of dashes are enough to bring balance to the sweet and bitter elements of the drink.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing Glass: For stirring the cocktail.
- Jigger: To measure ingredients accurately.
- Strainer: To ensure a smooth pour.
- Old-Fashioned Glass or Coupe Glass: For serving the cocktail.
How to Make the Toronto Cocktail
Ingredients:
- 2 oz rye whiskey
- ¼ oz Fernet-Branca
- ¼ oz simple syrup or demerara syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Optional: Lemon or orange peel for garnish
Instructions:
- Mix the Ingredients: Combine the rye whiskey, Fernet-Branca, syrup, and bitters in a mixing glass.
- Stir with Ice: Add ice and stir for about 30 seconds until the drink is well chilled.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into a chilled old-fashioned or coupe glass.
- Garnish (Optional): Add a lemon or orange peel for a fragrant garnish that enhances the drink’s aroma.
For those who enjoy complex drinks with rich flavors, you can also explore the Cranberry Tangerine Shrub for another unique addition to your drink repertoire.
Why the Toronto Cocktail is Unique
A Distinctive Flavor Profile
The combination of rye whiskey and Fernet-Branca creates a cocktail that is both bitter and sweet. It’s the balance between these two flavors that makes the Toronto Cocktail truly special. The addition of bitters and syrup softens the harshness of the whiskey and Fernet, making it a well-rounded drink.
Popularity Among Bartenders
Many bartenders enjoy making the Toronto Cocktail because of its simplicity and complexity. Its mix of strong flavors creates an ideal spirit-forward drink. If you like spirit-driven cocktails such as the Old-Fashioned or the Manhattan, this is a great alternative.
Best Food Pairings for the Toronto Cocktail
The Toronto Cocktail pairs well with rich and bold-flavored foods:
- Charcuterie Boards: The smoky and salty flavors of meats and cheeses pair beautifully with the spiciness of rye whiskey and the bitterness of Fernet-Branca.
- Grilled Meats: The strong flavors of grilled meats complement the boldness of the Toronto Cocktail.
- Dark Chocolate Desserts: The bitterness of dark chocolate is a perfect match for the herbal notes of Fernet-Branca.
For a complete meal pairing, you might also enjoy exploring the Country Pork Casserole, a savory dish that complements the flavors of this cocktail.
FAQs About the Toronto Cocktail
What is a Toronto Cocktail made of?
The Toronto Cocktail is made with rye whiskey, Fernet-Branca, simple syrup or demerara syrup, and Angostura bitters. It’s a stirred cocktail, typically served in an old-fashioned glass.
Can I use bourbon instead of rye whiskey?
While you can substitute bourbon for rye whiskey, the cocktail will be sweeter and less spicy. Rye whiskey is preferred for its boldness and spice, which contrasts nicely with the bitter Fernet-Branca.
Is Fernet-Branca necessary for the Toronto Cocktail?
Yes, Fernet-Branca is essential for the classic version of the Toronto Cocktail. Its bitterness is a defining feature. However, you can experiment with other amari if you prefer a slightly less bitter taste.
What glass should I serve a Toronto Cocktail in?
The Toronto Cocktail is traditionally served in a coupe glass or an old-fashioned glass.
How is the Toronto Cocktail different from an Old-Fashioned?
While both cocktails use whiskey and bitters, the Toronto Cocktail includes Fernet-Branca, which adds an intense, herbal bitterness not found in an Old-Fashioned.
Customizing the Toronto Cocktail
Experiment with Different Spirits
While rye whiskey is the standard base, feel free to try bourbon or even Scotch whisky for different flavor profiles. Each will bring its own distinct taste to the cocktail.
Adjusting Sweetness
If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, increase the amount of simple syrup or use demerara syrup for a richer flavor. This adjustment can help balance out the bitterness of the Fernet.
Play with Bitters
Try substituting Angostura bitters with orange or chocolate bitters for a new take on the classic. These variations can highlight different notes in the drink, such as the citrus from the garnish or the caramel from the syrup.
For more ideas on how to customize your drinks, explore the Classic Margarita Recipe to see how simple tweaks can make a big impact on flavor.
Conclusion
The Toronto Cocktail is a bold, well-balanced drink that has stood the test of time. Its complex mix of rye whiskey and Fernet-Branca makes it a must-try for anyone who enjoys spirit-forward cocktails with a touch of bitterness. Whether you’re enjoying this cocktail as a pre-dinner drink or serving it with a rich meal, the Toronto Cocktail is sure to impress.
For more cocktail inspiration, check out the New York Sour Cocktail or the Black and Tan Drink for more ways to elevate your drink game.
Finally, if you’re looking for more classic cocktail recipes, don’t forget to explore this Toronto Cocktail Recipe and Serious Eats’ Guide to the Toronto Cocktail.