The Casino is a refined gin cocktail with roots in early 20th-century mixology. This classic drink combines gin, maraschino liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and orange bitters for a harmonious blend of flavors. Known for its balanced mix of sweetness, citrus, and subtle nuttiness, the Casino has been a favorite among gin lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. Despite being lesser-known than other gin classics, the Casino’s simplicity and elegance make it a fantastic choice for those looking to try something new yet timeless. Let’s explore the history, unique characteristics, and recipe for making the perfect Casino cocktail at home.
The Origins of the Casino Cocktail
The Casino first appeared in print in Harry Craddock’s 1930 Savoy Cocktail Book, where it was included as one of the many refined cocktails created during the Golden Age of cocktails. Like many drinks from this period, the Casino was inspired by the balance of flavors and simplicity, using only a few carefully selected ingredients to create a drink that’s both sophisticated and refreshing.
Named after the luxurious allure of the casino scene, the cocktail has a certain glamorous quality to it that fits perfectly into the classic cocktail world. Although it fell into obscurity for a time, the Casino has made a comeback among modern bartenders and home mixologists, thanks to its unique blend of flavors and ease of preparation.
What Makes the Casino So Unique
The Casino stands out for several reasons:
- Balanced Flavors: The Casino combines the floral and botanical notes of gin with the sweet almond-like undertones of maraschino liqueur and the bright acidity of lemon juice. This balance creates a drink that’s both refreshing and complex.
- Subtle Nutty Flavor: The maraschino liqueur adds a hint of nuttiness without overpowering the other ingredients, making the Casino a unique choice for those who appreciate nuanced flavors.
- Perfect Aperitif: With its light citrus and herbal notes, the Casino makes for an ideal pre-dinner cocktail, awakening the palate without being too heavy.
How to Make the Perfect Casino Cocktail
Making a Casino cocktail is simple and requires just a few ingredients. Here’s a classic recipe that will bring this elegant drink to life.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz (6 cl) gin
- ½ oz (1.5 cl) maraschino liqueur
- ½ oz (1.5 cl) fresh lemon juice
- 2 dashes of orange bitters
- Ice
- Lemon twist or maraschino cherry for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and orange bitters.
- Shake with Ice: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10–15 seconds, until well chilled.
- Strain and Serve: Double strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lemon twist or a maraschino cherry for an added touch of elegance.
Tip: For the best flavor, use a high-quality maraschino liqueur, like Luxardo, and freshly squeezed lemon juice to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
- Gin: A classic London Dry gin works beautifully in the Casino, providing a clean, juniper-forward base that complements the maraschino liqueur and lemon juice. Brands like Beefeater, Tanqueray, or Bombay Sapphire work well, though you can also experiment with a more botanical gin for a softer profile.
- Maraschino Liqueur: Maraschino liqueur is key to the Casino’s unique flavor profile, adding a hint of nuttiness and subtle cherry sweetness. Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur is the most popular choice and is widely regarded for its authentic flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for the bright, citrusy acidity that balances the sweetness of the maraschino liqueur. Avoid bottled lemon juice, as it lacks the freshness needed to create the perfect Casino.
- Orange Bitters: A few dashes of orange bitters add depth and enhance the citrus and herbal notes of the cocktail. Angostura Orange Bitters or Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6 are both excellent choices.
- Lemon Twist or Maraschino Cherry: A lemon twist adds a touch of citrus aroma, while a maraschino cherry brings a pop of color and complements the maraschino liqueur in the cocktail.
Tips for Perfecting Your Casino Cocktail
- Shake Well: The Casino benefits from a good, vigorous shake, which blends the citrus and liqueur with the gin while creating a frothy, well-chilled cocktail.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Since the Casino relies on just a few ingredients, quality matters. Fresh lemon juice, quality maraschino liqueur, and a good gin will make a noticeable difference in the final drink.
- Double Strain for Smoothness: Double straining through a fine mesh strainer removes any ice shards, resulting in a smooth, refined drink.
- Adjust Sweetness and Tartness: The Casino is meant to be balanced, so feel free to adjust the lemon juice or maraschino liqueur to your taste.
Casino Variations to Try
While the classic Casino is delicious on its own, here are a few variations that put a unique twist on this elegant cocktail:
- Cherry Casino: Add a dash of cherry liqueur (such as Heering) for a slightly sweeter, more pronounced cherry flavor.
- Herbal Casino: Add a dash of herbal bitters (like Peychaud’s or lavender bitters) to give the cocktail an aromatic, floral twist.
- Grapefruit Casino: Swap the lemon juice for grapefruit juice for a slightly sweeter, softer version of the cocktail that pairs well with botanical gin.
- Berry Casino: Muddle a few fresh berries (like raspberries or blackberries) with the lemon juice for a fruity twist that adds both color and flavor.
- Sparkling Casino: Top the finished drink with a splash of sparkling water or prosecco for a lighter, bubbly version that’s perfect for celebrations.
When to Serve the Casino
The Casino’s balanced, citrus-forward profile makes it a versatile cocktail that works for various occasions:
- Aperitif: The Casino’s refreshing, light taste makes it a wonderful pre-dinner drink that pairs well with light appetizers or seafood dishes.
- Evening Cocktail: With its sophisticated look and balanced flavors, the Casino is perfect for evening cocktails, whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night at home.
- Happy Hour: The Casino’s complex flavor profile makes it a standout choice for happy hour, especially for gin lovers looking for something new.
- Celebrations and Special Occasions: The Casino’s luxurious feel and beautiful presentation make it a fantastic choice for celebrations or special gatherings.
Why You Should Try the Casino
The Casino is more than just a gin cocktail; it’s a celebration of balance and elegance, with each ingredient playing an essential role. The combination of gin, maraschino liqueur, and lemon juice creates a drink that’s both refreshing and complex, offering layers of flavor that unfold with each sip. Its unique nuttiness, subtle sweetness, and bright citrus make it a memorable cocktail that feels timeless yet approachable.
For those who appreciate classic cocktails or are looking to expand their gin repertoire, the Casino is a must-try. Its smooth, nuanced flavor and elegant presentation make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a formal gathering or a relaxed evening at home. So next time you’re in the mood for a sophisticated drink with a twist, shake up a Casino, raise your glass, and enjoy a taste of the classic cocktail era. Cheers!