Burnt Fuselage Cocktail Recipe

The Burnt Fuselage is a cocktail with a storied past, linked to the era of World War I. It's said to have been created by soldiers who sought comfort in a strong drink after enduring the hardships of battle.

• The name is thought to be a reference to the aftermath of aerial dogfights.
• It gained popularity in the post-war years, becoming a symbol of both celebration and remembrance.
• The cocktail is often enjoyed by those who appreciate a potent, history-rich drink.

The Burnt Fuselage offers a robust and complex flavor profile. The cognac provides a deep, rich base with hints of oak and vanilla, while the dry vermouth adds a herbal and slightly bitter counterpoint. The Grand Marnier brings a sweet and subtly citrus note, creating a well-rounded and sophisticated taste.

• The Burnt Fuselage is sometimes referred to as a 'forgotten classic' due to its lesser-known status among modern cocktails.
• It's a cocktail that warms from the inside out, making it ideal for colder weather or a cozy night in.
• The drink's potency made it a favorite among the 'Lost Generation' writers and artists of the 1920s.

• Pour 1 oz of cognac into a mixing glass.
• Add 1 oz of dry vermouth.
• Measure and pour 1 oz of Grand Marnier.
• Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir the mixture for 20 to 30 seconds.
• Strain the cocktail into a chilled cocktail glass.
• Garnish with a twist of orange peel.

• Always use high-quality ingredients to ensure the best taste.
• Chilling the cocktail glass before serving helps to keep the drink at an optimal temperature.
• When garnishing with the orange peel, make sure to twist it over the drink to release the essential oils.

Food Pairings

Cheese Platter: The rich and nutty flavors of cognac, combined with the citrus notes of Grand Marnier, make the Burnt Fuselage cocktail a perfect companion for a plate of assorted cheeses, particularly aged cheeses like Gouda or Cheddar.

Dark Chocolate: A piece of dark chocolate can complement the sweet orange flavor of the cocktail while the bitterness of the chocolate contrasts the sweetness, creating a balanced tasting experience.

Roasted Nuts: Almonds or cashews, especially when they're lightly salted, pair nicely with the cocktail, as their earthy flavors harmonize with the warmth of the cognac.

Drink Pairings

Coffee: Enjoy your Burnt Fuselage with a side of rich, black coffee. The bold flavors of the coffee will stand up well to the strong and complex flavors of the cocktail.

Sparkling Water: A palate cleanser like sparkling water is great in between sips to refresh and prepare the palate for more of this delightful cocktail.

• Cognac: Can be substituted with a good quality Brandy if Cognac is not available.
• Dry Vermouth: A dry white wine with a touch of bitterness could be used as a last resort.
• Grand Marnier: Triple Sec or Cointreau can be used, though they will alter the flavor slightly.

Smoky Fuselage

• Replace cognac with an equal part of smoky Scotch whisky.
• The smokiness of the Scotch will infuse the cocktail with a robust and earthy flavor, contrasting the sweetness of Grand Marnier, and delivering a rich tapestry of flavors for the intrepid drinker seeking new territories.

Fuselage Royale

• Top the cocktail with a splash of chilled Champagne after stirring and straining into the glass.
• This adds a bubbly, celebratory element, lightening the drink and turning your quiet evening into a festive affair with just a hint of extravagance.

Citrus Fuselage

• Use a lemon peel instead of orange and add a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
• The lemon will bring a sharper tang to the table, cutting through the sweetness for a more refreshing and invigorating sip, perfect for those looking to add a little spring to their step.