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The Douglas Fairbanks cocktail is a classic featuring gin, apricot brandy, lime juice and egg white for a wonderful silky mouthfeel. It’s lightly herbal and fruity, and on the strong side.

Fairbanks was a trailblazing actor who rose to fame during the silent era of cinema. Known for his athletic prowess and swashbuckling roles, Fairbanks became one of the most popular performers in Hollywood in the early 20th century.

His larger-than-life persona and charming on-screen presence made him an enduring legend of the silver screen.

The Origins of the Douglas Fairbanks Cocktail

The Douglas Fairbanks cocktail was created as a tribute to the actor’s vibrant personality and undeniable charisma. While the exact origins of the cocktail are somewhat unclear, it probably emerged during Fairbanks’ heyday in the 1920s.

Which was also the Prohibition Era. Like many cocktails from that time, it featured gin with just a few simple ingredients to create a well-balanced that captures the spirit of the Roaring Twenties.

The Douglas Fairbanks cocktail is one of those increasingly rare cocktails that uses raw egg white to give it a nice, creamy froth. If you’re concerned about using raw eggs, aquafaba is a terrific vegan substitute.

Flavor Profile

The primary base of the drink is gin, which imparts its distinctive botanical flavors. Depending on the type of gin used, you can expect juniper, citrus, coriander, and other herbaceous notes.

The apricot brandy adds a layer of fruity sweetness, giving the cocktail a rich and slightly syrupy texture without being overly cloying. Fresh lime juice introduces a sharp, tangy acidity that balances the sweetness of the apricot brandy and adds a zesty, fresh aroma.

The egg white creates a creamy mouthfeel and a frothy top, adding to the luxurious texture of the cocktail. This component also mellows out the sharpness of the gin and lime juice.

The combination of ingredients leads to a well-balanced drink that’s neither too sweet nor too tart, with a smooth and creamy finish.

Serving Tips

• Use fresh lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a vibrant and zesty flavor to the cocktail. Avoid using bottled lime juice for the best results.
• Chill your glassware: To enhance the overall drinking experience, chill your cocktail glass in the fridge or freezer before pouring in the mixture.
• Don’t skimp on shaking: This recipe needs dry shaking. Properly shaking the cocktail is crucial to getting the right consistency and ensuring all ingredients are well combined. Especially the egg.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your enjoyment of the Douglas Fairbanks cocktail, consider pairing it with complementary flavors:

• Canapés with smoked salmon: The smoothness of the cocktail pairs well with the richness of smoked salmon. Serve them on crackers or toasted bread for a delectable combination.
• Cheese and charcuterie board: The complex flavors of different cheeses and cured meats provide an excellent contrast to the cocktail’s botanical notes.
• Fresh fruit platter: Opt for juicy fruits like strawberries, melons, and grapes to refresh your palate between sips.

 

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