The Saratoga is one of those classic cocktails that never goes out of style. It’s smooth, slightly sweet, and just a little bubbly-perfect for slow sipping. With rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, a splash of brandy, and a hint of bitters, it’s a drink that feels both timeless and inviting. I’ve made this drink countless times-especially on cozy evenings-and I thought I’d share a few tips I’ve picked up along the way to help you make your own perfect Saratoga at home.
Saratoga
Ingredients
Serves: 1
Prep time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
- Rye whiskey: 1.5 oz (45 ml)
- Sweet vermouth: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Brandy: 0.5 oz (15 ml)
- Angostura bitters: 2 dashes
- Sparkling water: Just a splash
- Lemon peel: For garnish
Glass: Use an old-fashioned glass for a relaxed feel, or a coupe glass if you’re going for a more elegant presentation.
Method
- Fill a mixing glass with ice. Add the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and brandy.
- Drop in 2 dashes of bitters and stir gently for about 20-30 seconds. You’re chilling the drink and blending the flavors without watering it down too much. It should feel smooth when you taste it.
- Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Add a splash of sparkling water for a light, fizzy finish.
- Twist the lemon peel over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in as a garnish.
Tips & Tricks
- Don’t skip the stirring! It’s key for getting that silky texture and balanced flavor.
- Fresh lemon peel makes a difference-use a veggie peeler to get a nice strip without too much bitter pith.
- If you don’t have rye, bourbon works and adds a sweeter, rounder flavor. Scotch gives it a smokier edge.
- For a lighter version, use less vermouth or swap it for dry vermouth to cut the sweetness.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can mix the whiskey, vermouth, and brandy ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just stir with ice, add bitters, pour into a glass, and top with sparkling water and garnish. This is a great trick for entertaining-guests can finish the drink themselves.
Storage
If you’ve mixed a batch (without the sparkling water), it’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in a sealed jar or bottle. Just give it a stir or shake before serving to bring everything back together.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail is great before dinner or as a relaxed nightcap. I often pair it with a small charcuterie board when friends are over-it’s a hit every time.
Food Pairings
- Charcuterie & cheeses: The salty, savory flavors highlight the richness of the brandy and whiskey.
- Grilled steak: A bold drink like the Saratoga stands up well to a juicy steak.
- Dark chocolate: Try a square or two with your drink-the bitters and sweetness play beautifully off each other.
Variations
Try mixing it up with these simple tweaks:
Apple Saratoga
- Use apple brandy instead of regular brandy.
- Garnish with a thin apple slice for a crisp, fruity twist.
Cherry Saratoga
- Add a splash (about 0.25 oz / 7 ml) of cherry liqueur.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry for a bit of old-school charm.
Spiced Saratoga
- Drop in a cinnamon stick and a small pinch of nutmeg when stirring.
- Let it sit for a minute before serving so the spices can infuse.
Non-Alcoholic Version
- Use non-alcoholic whiskey and vermouth alternatives.
- Add a few drops of alcohol-free bitters (or herbal tea concentrate).
- Finish with sparkling water and lemon peel.
Common Questions
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes! Mix the whiskey, vermouth, and brandy in advance. Keep it chilled. Let guests add their own bitters, sparkling water, and garnish when serving.
What if I don’t have Angostura bitters?
Orange bitters are a great swap. Peychaud’s gives it a different herbal note. You can even experiment with homemade bitters or a small splash of amaro.
How do I get that perfect lemon twist?
Use a vegetable peeler to get a wide strip of peel. Twist it over the glass so the oils spray into the drink. Then drop it in.
Is rye whiskey a must?
It’s traditional, but not required. Bourbon adds sweetness, and Scotch gives it depth. Use what you like!
Can I skip the sparkling water?
Definitely. It’s optional but adds a refreshing lift. If you prefer a stronger, more spirit-forward drink, leave it out.
Final Thoughts
The Saratoga is one of those cocktails that feels like a little celebration in a glass. It’s smooth, balanced, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or serving a round to friends, it brings a bit of classic charm to any moment. This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the porch, and I hope it becomes one of your favorites too.
