There’s something timeless about the Bronx cocktail-a smooth, citrusy classic that’s been around for over a century. It’s got that perfect balance of sweet and botanical, with just enough zing to keep things interesting. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser-especially when you want something a little different from the usual martini or gin and tonic. Let’s break it down and make this bright, easygoing cocktail your new go-to.
Bronx
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Chilled cocktail or coupe glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
– 1 oz (30 ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 oz (7.5 ml) sweet vermouth
– 1/4 oz (7.5 ml) dry vermouth
– Ice (for shaking)
– Optional garnish: orange twist or maraschino cherry
Method
- Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer or by filling it with ice water for a few minutes.
- In a cocktail shaker, add a handful of ice. Pour in the gin, sweet vermouth, dry vermouth, and orange juice.
- Shake well for about 15 seconds-until the shaker feels cold and the drink is well mixed. You want it nice and frothy on top.
- Dump the ice water from your glass if you used that method. Strain the cocktail into your chilled glass.
- Garnish with a twist of orange peel or a maraschino cherry, if you like.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh orange juice. It makes a world of difference. Bottled juice can dull the drink’s brightness.
– Chill everything. Cold shaker, cold glass, cold ingredients-that’s the secret to a crisp, clean finish.
– Choose your gin wisely. A classic London dry gin gives a sharper, more herbal flavor. For a softer, rounder taste, try Old Tom gin.
– Shake, don’t stir. The orange juice needs that shake to mix smoothly with the other ingredients and get a little frothy.
Storage & Make-Ahead
This cocktail is best made fresh, but you can prep it ahead for a party.
Mix the gin and both vermouths in a pitcher and chill.
Wait to add the orange juice and shake individual servings when ready to pour.
Don’t store a fully mixed Bronx for long-it’ll lose its brightness.
Serving Suggestions
The Bronx is super versatile. I often serve it at brunch-it’s like a more refined cousin to the mimosa. But it also works beautifully as a pre-dinner drink. The citrus refreshes your palate, and the botanicals whet your appetite.
Here are some food pairings that play well with the Bronx:
Brunch Favorites
– Eggs Benedict
– Buttery croissants
– Pancakes with citrus zest
Light Mains
– Grilled shrimp or white fish
– Summer salads with citrus vinaigrette
– Cheese boards with goat cheese or aged cheddar
Spicy Bites
– Buffalo wings
– Jalapeño poppers
– Spiced nuts
Flavor Notes
The Bronx is light and bright. The orange juice brings a fresh, juicy sweetness. The gin adds herbal, piney notes, while the vermouths bring balance-a little sweetness from the red, a touch of dryness from the white. The result is a drink that’s smooth, refreshing, and just complex enough to keep you coming back for another sip.
Recipe Variations
I thought I’d share one of my favorite cocktail tweaks-it’s a fun way to keep things interesting without straying too far from the original.
Golden Bronx
– Add a dash of orange bitters before shaking.
– This gives the drink more depth and a slightly spicier citrus profile.
Income Tax Cocktail
– Add a dash of Angostura bitters to the original Bronx recipe.
– It’s a little bolder and richer-great for evening sipping.
Bronx Terrace
– Use 2 oz gin, 1/2 oz dry vermouth, 1 oz orange juice, and 1/2 oz elderflower cordial.
– Shake and strain into a tall glass with a splash of soda water.
– It’s floral, refreshing, and a little bubbly.
Virgin Bronx (Non-Alcoholic)
– Mix 2 oz fresh orange juice with 1 oz tonic water and a dash of grenadine.
– Serve over ice with an orange twist.
– It’s bright, sweet, and perfect for anyone skipping alcohol.
Common Questions
When should I drink a Bronx cocktail?
It’s great for brunch or as an aperitif before dinner. Really, it’s a solid pick anytime you want something citrusy and refreshing.
Can I make a batch for a party?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients and mix in a large pitcher (without ice). Keep it chilled, then shake individual servings with ice before pouring.
What if I don’t have sweet vermouth?
You can increase the dry vermouth and add a splash of simple syrup. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still taste good.
What’s the biggest mistake to avoid?
Using bottled orange juice. It flattens the drink. Also, don’t skip the shaking step-this cocktail needs that mix to come together.
Can I use a different juice?
Blood orange juice works beautifully and gives a deeper color and berry-like flavor. Grapefruit is too bitter, but worth a try if you like bold flavors.
Final Thoughts
The Bronx is one of those classic cocktails that’s quietly brilliant. It’s not flashy, but it always delivers. Once you try it with fresh juice and good gin, you’ll see why it’s stood the test of time. Whether you’re mixing one up for yourself on a slow weekend morning or shaking a round for friends, this drink brings a little old-school charm-and a lot of flavor-to any occasion.
