Red Hook
The Red Hook cocktail is a well-balanced mix of sweet, bitter, and strong flavors. It has a rich, velvety texture with a hint of spice from the rye whiskey, and a pleasant bitterness from the Punt e Mes and maraschino liqueur.
The Conference Cocktail Recipe
Jump to Recipe ⬇️
The Conference Nutrition Facts
Calories:~150
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:~5g
Alcohol %:~30
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: January 16, 2024
Contents
History
The Conference is a cocktail that embodies the spirit of collaboration and unity. It is said to have been created by a group of bartenders who wanted to craft a drink that brought together the best of their individual experiences and favorite spirits.
- Origin: The exact origin is not well-documented, but it is believed to have emerged from the American craft cocktail movement.
- Popularity: This cocktail has gained a following among whiskey enthusiasts and those who appreciate complex, spirit-forward drinks.
- Best Enjoyed: The Conference is best enjoyed in a setting where conversation flows as smoothly as the drink itself, making it perfect for actual conferences, meetings, or sophisticated social gatherings.
How The Conference Tastes?
The Conference is a rich, full-bodied cocktail with a harmonious blend of sweetness from the Demerara syrup, the warmth of rye and bourbon, and the fruitiness of apple brandy. The cognac adds depth, while the aromatic and chocolate bitters provide a complex, spiced undertone. The citrus twists contribute a bright, zesty finish.
Interesting facts about The Conference
- The Conference is often considered a 'bartender's handshake,' a drink shared among bartenders to show respect and camaraderie.
- The combination of four different spirits is a nod to the classic Vieux Carré, which also features a blend of spirits.
- The name 'The Conference' suggests a coming together of different elements, much like attendees of a conference bringing their unique ideas to the table.
Ingredients
- Rye: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Bourbon: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Apple brandy: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Cognac: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Demerara syrup: 0.25 oz(8ml)
- Aromatic bitters: 2 dashes
- Chocolate bitters: 1 dash
- Orange twist: 1
- Lemon twist: 1
Rye (0.5oz)
Rye whiskey provides a spicy, grain-forward base that's crucial in balancing the sweeter components. Too much? It can overpower the blend. Too little? You'd miss its signature warmth. Feeling adventurous? Swap for high-proof rye for an extra kick.
Mary Mitkina
Bourbon (0.5oz)
Bourbon adds a sweet, vanilla and oak character which mellows down the spice. It's all about balance! Forget the bourbon and you've lost half the conversation. How about a twist? Try a wheated bourbon for smoother, gentler notes.
Alex Green
Apple Brandy (0.5oz)
Brings a whisper of fruitiness, intertwined with a subtle warmth. Without it, the cocktail would feel one-note. For an autumn twist, test out apple cider for a less boozy, more apple-forward profile.
Emma Rose
Cognac (0.5oz)
Cognac, with its luxurious texture and rich flavor, gives depth. Skimp on it and you'll lack complexity. Looking for a change? Armagnac could be used for a slight variation with a more rustic profile.
Mary Mitkina
Demerara Syrup (0.25oz)
This dark sugar syrup adds a touch of sweetness to perfectly harmonize the spirits. More could swamp the subtleties; less would skew the balance towards the dry side. Maple syrup could be a quirky replacement, offering an interesting twist.
Alex Green
Aromatic Bitters (2 dashes)
The cocktail's spice rack – a little goes a long way. The bitters integrate the flavors, completing the cocktail's profile. Omit these, and it's like a pie without seasoning. Want to experiment? Orange bitters for a citrusy pop.
Emma Rose
Chocolate Bitters (1 dash)
A single dash enriches the bouquet with deep notes – it's the finishing touch. Forget this and you'll miss a hidden decadence. Swap for mole bitters for a complex, spicy edge.
Mary Mitkina
Orange Twist (1)
Zesty oils add a bright top note, awakening the senses. No twist? The nose is less inviting. Mix it up with a flamed orange peel for drama and a slightly toasted aroma.
Alex Green
Lemon Twist (1)
Sharp, fragrant and providing a finishing lift - the final flourish. Without it, the drink feels less dressed. Prefer something different? A grapefruit peel could offer a bittersweet tang.
Emma Rose
Recipe. How to make The Conference Drink
- Add rye, bourbon, apple brandy, cognac, Demerara syrup, aromatic bitters, chocolate bitters, and cubed ice to a mixing glass.
- Stir for 30-45 seconds.
- Strain into a lowball glass over a clear ice cube.
- Garnish with an orange twist and a lemon twist.
Pro Tips
- Always use fresh citrus twists to ensure the essential oils are vibrant and add to the aroma of the cocktail.
- Chilling the glass before serving can enhance the drinking experience.
- For a clearer ice cube, use boiled and then cooled water when making your ice.
Perfect Pairings
Cheese & Charcuterie
The robust flavors in 'The Conference' cocktail pair exceptionally well with aged cheeses and smoked meats. The spirits’ complex notes highlight the richness of Gouda or Cheddar, and complement the savory depth of Prosciutto or Soppressata.
Grilled/Roasted Meats
A perfect companion for a hearty meal; try it with grilled steak, roast pork, or even a barbecued brisket. The smokey sweetness of the bourbon and the apple brandy's subtle fruit notes are a delightful contrast to the char and savoriness of the meat.
Desserts
For those with a sweet tooth, 'The Conference' lends itself beautifully to desserts like dark chocolate truffles or a caramel apple tart. The chocolate bitters and the Demerara syrup echo the complexities of rich, decadent desserts.
🍹 Discover the Top 50 All-Time Recipes! 🍹
Enter your email, and we'll send the exclusive list straight to your inbox.
We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously
What you could change in The Conference
- Rye: Can be substituted with another high-quality American whiskey if rye is not available.
- Apple Brandy: Calvados is a suitable substitute for apple brandy.
- Demerara Syrup: A rich simple syrup (2 parts sugar to 1 part water) can be used if Demerara is not at hand.
Explore all drinks starting with T here
And of course - twists🍹
Smoked 'The Conference'
Replace apple brandy with smoked apple brandy. Add a pinch of smoked salt. Recipe: Follow original but with swapped ingredients. Taste: A smokier version honoring fall bonfires.
The Orchard Meeting
In place of apple brandy use pear brandy, and swap the lemon twist for fresh sage leaves. Recipe: Same method, new players. Taste: A herbaceous, slightly softer cocktail reminiscent of a walk through a fall orchard.
Spice Trade Conference
Substitute chocolate bitters with gingerbread bitters and add a cinnamon stick as garnish. Recipe: Build as usual and then garnish with cinnamon. Taste: A spicy sipper that brings the holiday market to your glass.
In case you forgot basics how to make The Conference
Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainInsert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
If you want to drink something else - you can use our AI-augmented search to find the best cocktail for you!
Completely free!
Frequently Asked Questions on The Conference
What type of glass is most suitable for serving 'The Conference' cocktail?
A lowball glass, also known as an old-fashioned glass, is ideal for serving 'The Conference' cocktail, as it allows ample room for the drink to be appreciated both visually and aromatically.
Is it possible to make 'The Conference' cocktail in large batches for parties?
Yes, 'The Conference' can be pre-mixed in large quantities for parties. Just scale up the ingredients proportionally and stir well with ice before serving. Garnish each glass individually to maintain the visual appeal and aroma.
Can 'The Conference' be considered a type of Old Fashioned?
While 'The Conference' shares some similarities with an Old Fashioned, such as being a spirit-forward cocktail with bitters and a citrus garnish, it is a distinct recipe due to its unique blend of multiple spirits and the inclusion of Demerara syrup.
How can I ensure clarity in the ice cube when making 'The Conference' at home?
To achieve clear ice at home, use distilled water or water that has been boiled and then cooled. Pour the water into a silicone ice mold and freeze. For even greater clarity, insulate the sides of the mold, forcing ice to freeze from the top-down, pushing air bubbles to the bottom.
What's the significance of the name 'The Conference'?
The name 'The Conference' signifies the coming together of multiple spirits and ingredients to create a harmonious blend, akin to a successful gathering of ideas or people, much like in a conference setting.
More similar recipes to The Conference!
Explore new cocktails you'd love!
craftPin It
First Word
The First Word cocktail offers a harmonious blend of botanical, herbal, and citrus notes. It's a complex yet refreshing drink with a sweet undertone from the beer simple syrup, balanced by the tartness of lime juice.
Teddy Bear
The Teddy Bear cocktail offers a sweet and fruity flavor profile with a hint of spice from the cinnamon. It's a warm, comforting drink with a smooth texture, thanks to the pear and cognac liqueur, and a crisp freshness from the apple juice.
Artillery
The Artillery cocktail has a bold, robust flavor profile with a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness. It is strong, slightly sweet, and herbal with a hint of citrus.
Old Pal
The Old Pal is a strong, spirit-forward cocktail with a hint of bitterness. It has a dry, slightly spicy taste from the rye whiskey, balanced by the herbal and bitter notes of the Campari and dry vermouth.
Boston Sidecar
The Boston Sidecar offers a harmonious blend of sour and sweet with a robust spirit backbone. The rum adds a touch of tropical warmth, while the brandy provides a rich, fruity depth. The triple sec delivers a bright citrus note, making the cocktail complex and well-rounded.
Jack Rose
The Jack Rose cocktail is a delightful combination of sweet, sour, and fruity flavors. The apple brandy provides a rich, smooth base, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing tanginess. The grenadine imparts a subtle sweetness and a beautiful rosy hue.
Apple Brandy Sour
The Apple Brandy Sour is a well-balanced cocktail, with a perfect blend of sweet and sour flavors. The apple brandy provides a rich, fruity taste, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing tang. The simple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness, making this cocktail a delightful and satisfying drink.
Applecar
The Applecar cocktail is a delightful combination of sweet, sour, and fruity flavors. The apple brandy and lemon juice provide a tangy and refreshing taste, while the triple sec adds a hint of sweetness. The cocktail is well-balanced, with a smooth and slightly strong finish.
Brandy Crusta
The Brandy Crusta has a balanced, complex taste with a combination of sweet, sour, and bitter flavors. The brandy provides a rich, warming base, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing tartness. The orange liqueur and maraschino liqueur contribute a subtle sweetness, and the aromatic bitters bring a hint of spice.
Monte Carlo
The Monte Carlo cocktail is a smooth, rich, and slightly sweet drink with a hint of herbal bitterness from the Benedictine. It has a strong whiskey flavor, balanced by the sweetness of the syrup and the warmth of the bitters.
Fall From The Tree
The 'Fall From The Tree' cocktail offers a harmonious blend of flavors. It's warmly sweet from the apple juice and cinnamon syrup, with a refreshing tartness from the lemon juice. The applejack, or your choice of bourbon or scotch, provides a robust backbone, while the aromatic bitters add depth and complexity. It's a medium-bodied cocktail that leaves a lingering spice on the palate.
Oaxacan Old Fashioned
The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is a complex, smoky, and slightly sweet cocktail with a rich, velvety texture. The mezcal provides an earthy, smoky backbone, while the agave syrup adds a touch of sweetness and the Angostura bitters bring a subtle bitterness to balance the flavors.
Oaxaca
The Oaxaca cocktail is a complex and well-balanced drink with a smoky, sweet, and slightly bitter taste. It has a rich and velvety texture, with a hint of spice and a lingering warmth.
Polar Bear
The Polar Bear is a cocktail with a complex flavor profile. It's strong, with the mezcal providing a smoky base, while the vermouth adds a touch of sweetness. The creme de menthe gives it a refreshing minty taste, and the angelica tincture or celery bitters add a hint of bitterness. It's a cocktail that's both refreshing and warming, perfect for a cold winter's night.
Hanky Panky
The Hanky Panky cocktail is a well-balanced mix of sweet, bitter, and herbal flavors. The gin provides a strong, juniper-forward base, while the sweet vermouth adds a touch of sweetness and complexity. The Fernet-Branca adds a bitter, herbal edge that lingers on the palate.
Platinum Blonde
The Platinum Blonde cocktail offers a delightful balance of sweet and sour flavors, with a hint of bitterness from the orange liqueur. It is a smooth, refreshing, and light drink that leaves a pleasant citrusy aftertaste.
Quarter Deck
The Quarter Deck cocktail offers a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and slightly bitter flavors. The sherry adds a rich, nutty undertone, while the lime juice provides a refreshing citrus tang. The overall taste is smooth, well-rounded, and satisfying.
Sidecar
The Sidecar is a delightful mix of sour, sweet, and strong flavors. The combination of cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice creates a smooth and refreshing taste, with a hint of warmth from the cognac.
Vieux Carré
The Vieux Carré is a complex and well-balanced cocktail with a smooth, rich taste. It has a hint of sweetness from the cognac and herbal notes from the Bénédictine. The rye whiskey adds a spicy kick, while the vermouth and bitters provide a slightly bitter undertone.
Cognac Old Fashioned
The Cognac Old Fashioned has a smooth, rich, and slightly sweet taste with notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel. The cognac provides a warm, full-bodied flavor, while the sugar and bitters add a touch of sweetness and complexity.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned has a rich, complex taste that is both sweet and bitter. The whiskey provides a strong, warming base, while the sugar and bitters add a touch of sweetness and a hint of spice. The orange and cherry garnish add a subtle fruity note.
Mint Julep
The Mint Julep has a refreshing, sweet, and slightly minty taste. It is a well-balanced cocktail with a strong bourbon backbone and a cooling, herbal finish.
Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a complex and well-balanced cocktail, with a rich and bold taste. It has a bitter-sweet profile, with the bitterness of Campari complementing the sweetness of the vermouth. The whiskey adds warmth and depth, making it a perfect drink for sipping.