Old Pal Cocktail

What is the difference between a Negroni and an Old Pal Cocktail?

A Negroni and an Old Pal Cocktail both command a spot on the classic cocktail list but present distinct differences. First, while a Negroni employs gin as its primary spirit, an Old Pal uses rye whiskey. This substitution introduces a spicier note to the Old Pal compared to the botanical flavor profile of the Negroni. Second, the Negroni features sweet vermouth, which lends a richer, slightly sweet undertone. On the other hand, the Old Pal opts for dry vermouth, giving it a more herbal and less sweet touch. Finally, both drinks share Campari, a bitter aperitif, ensuring each has its signature bitter edge. While they might seem similar due to the Campari component, the choice of primary spirit and vermouth type sets these two cocktails apart in taste and character.

Best Whiskey for an Old Pal Cocktail

When making a great Old Pal Cocktail, your choice of whiskey can make all the difference. Rye whiskey, with its spicy and bold flavor, serves as the backbone of this classic drink. Brands like Bulleit, Rittenhouse, and WhistlePig have garnered acclaim for their robust rye offerings. Bulleit Rye, for instance, boasts a clean taste with hints of cherry and tobacco—ideal for an Old Pal that packs a punch. Rittenhouse brings a balanced blend of sweet and spicy notes, making it a versatile choice. But if you’re looking to elevate your cocktail game, WhistlePig’s rich and full-bodied rye can’t be overlooked. For a consistently great Old Pal, Bulleit Rye gets our nod. Its accessible price point and nuanced flavor profile make it a go-to for this classic cocktail.

Variations

Desire to uncover more choices? We’re excited to present some of our favorite discoveries:

• Boulevardier: This twist swaps dry vermouth for sweet vermouth, enriching the blend with a sweeter, more rounded flavor. The inclusion of sweet vermouth complements the spicy rye whiskey beautifully, creating a harmonious balance that’s both bold and smooth. I appreciate the warmth and depth this brings; it’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening.
• Negroni: This alternative brings gin to the forefront, replacing the rye whiskey, and opts for sweet vermouth over dry, introducing a more botanical and aromatic profile. The gin’s herbal qualities mesh with the sweet vermouth and Campari to craft a refreshing yet complex character. I’m especially drawn to its crispness, making it an invigorating choice perfect for sipping on a warm afternoon.
• White Negroni: Here, Campari and dry vermouth make way for a gentian liqueur and Lillet Blanc or another aromatized white wine, offering a lighter, more floral twist. This choice is marked by its elegance and subtlety, with the gentian liqueur adding a hint of bitterness that’s perfectly balanced by the floral and fruity notes of the Lillet Blanc. The delicate interplay of flavors captivates me, presenting a sophisticated experience that’s as refreshing as it is refined.

History and Origins

The Old Pal Cocktail traces its roots back to Prohibition-era Paris. During the 1920s, when the U.S. banned the production and sale of alcoholic beverages, many American bartenders migrated to Europe, particularly Paris, to continue their craft. Among these expats was Harry MacElhone, who became the proprietor of the renowned Harry’s New York Bar in Paris.

Harry MacElhone holds credit for introducing the Old Pal to the cocktail world. The drink first appeared in his 1922 book, “Harry’s ABC of Mixing Cocktails.” The name “Old Pal” likely commemorates a nod to a friend or acquaintance, but specifics about this friendship remain elusive.