A Cosmopolitan is a popular vodka-based cocktail that has a distinct pink or red color. It’s a drink that rose to fame in the 1990s and was known as the signature drink of the TV series “Sex and the City.” But what exactly goes into making this fruity, fun cocktail?
History of the Cosmopolitan
The origins of the Cosmopolitan are debated, but it seems to have first appeared in bars in the 1970s or 1980s. It may have evolved from older cocktails like the Kamikaze. Cheryl Cook, a bartender at the Strand Restaurant & Lounge in South Beach, Miami claims she invented the drink in 1985. Others say it was created by Toby Cecchini at The Odeon in New York City in 1988. Either way, its popularity skyrocketed when it was featured as a favorite of Carrie Bradshaw in “Sex and the City.”
Ingredients
A Cosmopolitan is made with just four key ingredients:
- Vodka – The primary alcohol in the cocktail. Typically citrus vodka is used.
- Cointreau – An orange-flavored triple sec liqueur that adds sweetness.
- Fresh lime juice – Provides tartness and balances the sweetness.
- Cranberry juice – Gives the drink its signature pink/red hue.
Recommended Proportions
There are several popular recipes for the Cosmopolitan with slightly varying amounts of each ingredient. But in general, these are typical proportions:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Vodka | 1.5 oz |
| Cointreau | 0.5 oz |
| Fresh lime juice | 0.5 oz |
| Cranberry juice | 1-2 oz |
How to Make a Cosmopolitan
Now that you know what goes into it, here is a step-by-step guide to making the perfect Cosmo at home:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, Cointreau, lime juice and cranberry juice as per your chosen measurements.
- Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds so everything is well blended.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a lime wedge or twist.
Tips for the Best Tasting Cosmopolitan
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice rather than bottled for maximum flavor.
- Chill the martini glass beforehand by filling it with ice and water.
- Shake hard to achieve the right dilution and chill.
- Use a premium vodka – avoid bottom-shelf brands.
- Garnish with a thin lime wheel or twist.
- Consider flaming the orange peel garnish for an extra flair.
Cosmopolitan Variations
Once you master the classic recipe, there are many ways to riff on the Cosmopolitan by tweaking the ingredients:
Cranberry-less Cosmopolitan
Omit the cranberry juice for a less sweet and tart drink. The lime provides enough citrus notes.
Vodka-less Cosmopolitan
For a non-alcoholic version, use cranberry juice as the base and omit vodka entirely.
Frozen Cosmopolitan
Blend with ice and cranberry juice to make a slushy, frozen concoction.
Apple Cinnamon Cosmopolitan
Use apple cider instead of cranberry juice and add a dash of cinnamon syrup.
Blood Orange Cosmopolitan
Use blood orange juice and garnish with an orange slice instead of lime.
Serving Suggestions
Cosmopolitans pair well with many occasions and foods:
- Girls’ night out or brunch
- Romantic date night
- Seafood dishes
- Spicy cuisines like Mexican or Thai
- Tangy citrus desserts
- Pre-dinner cocktails
It can be enjoyed year-round, but is especially popular in spring and summer.
FAQs
Should a Cosmopolitan be shaken or stirred?
A Cosmopolitan should always be shaken, not stirred. Shaking helps blend the ingredients together thoroughly and dilutes the drink with ice to the proper consistency.
What glass should you use for a Cosmo?
Cosmopolitans are traditionally served in a chilled martini glass. The conical shape helps concentrate the aromas. Make sure to chill the glass before pouring the cocktail into it.
Is a Cosmopolitan an easy cocktail to make at home?
Definitely! With its short ingredient list of vodka, triple sec, lime, and cranberry juice, the Cosmo is one of the simplest and most foolproof cocktails to mix up. Just remember to shake vigorously and it will come out perfect every time.
What’s the difference between a Cosmo and a Sea Breeze cocktail?
While they’re both citrusy vodka drinks, a Sea Breeze uses grapefruit juice instead of lime and doesn’t contain any triple sec. A Cosmo also traditionally uses cranberry juice compared to the Sea Breeze’s cranberry-grapefruit blend.
Are Cosmopolitans considered a girly drink?
The Cosmo is sometimes stereotyped as a “girly” cocktail due to its association with “Sex and the City.” But its tangy citrus flavor profile appeals to many men as well. Its balance of sweet and tart makes it a universally refreshing drink.
Conclusion
With its striking pink color, addictive sweet-tart flavor and utter simplicity to make, it’s no wonder the Cosmopolitan remains one of the most beloved cocktails to order at a bar or mix up at home. Whether you’re channeling your inner Carrie Bradshaw or just want a fun drink to liven up ladies’ night, give this classic cocktail a swirl.