Wellesley Cocktail Recipe

The Wellesley Cocktail is named after the prestigious Wellesley College in Massachusetts, which was founded in 1870. This all-female liberal arts college is known for its rigorous academic programs and beautiful campus. The cocktail is believed to have been created by a bartender at a nearby establishment, who wanted to pay tribute to the college and its students. The Wellesley Cocktail has since become a favorite among alumni and visitors alike.

• The Wellesley College motto is 'Non Ministrari sed Ministrare,' which means 'Not to be ministered unto, but to minister.'
• Famous alumni of Wellesley College include Hillary Rodham Clinton, Madeleine Albright, and Diane Sawyer.

The Wellesley Cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet, sour, and slightly bitter flavors. The gin provides a strong, herbal base, while the orange liqueur adds a touch of sweetness. The lemon juice brings a refreshing tartness, and the bitters give a subtle, complex finish.

• The Wellesley Cocktail is sometimes referred to as the 'Wellesley Martini' due to its similarity in ingredients and preparation to a classic martini.
• The cocktail is often served at Wellesley College reunions and other alumni events.
• The original recipe called for Old Tom Gin, a sweeter and less juniper-forward style of gin that was popular in the 19th century.

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add 2 oz of gin, 0.5 oz of orange liqueur, 0.5 oz of lemon juice, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
3. Stir the mixture until well chilled.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with an orange twist.

• Chill your glass before pouring the cocktail to keep it cold longer.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a brighter, fresher flavor.
• Stir the cocktail gently to avoid diluting it too much.

Foods: Pairs exceptionally well with light appetizers such as smoked salmon canapés or goat cheese crostinis. The refreshing citrusy notes can cut through the richness of the food, creating a balanced taste experience.

Non-Alcoholic Drinks: A perfect non-alcoholic pairing would be a sparkling lemonade that echoes the cocktail's citrus flavors without competing with its complexity. Ice-cold mineral water also complements well, cleansing the palate between sips.

Desserts: The Wellesley's bright and slightly sweet profile makes it a delightful accompaniment to lemon tarts or orange-infused chocolates. These desserts will echo the citrus notes of the cocktail.

• You can substitute the gin with vodka for a smoother, less herbal flavor.
• If you don't have orange liqueur, try using Cointreau or Grand Marnier.
• If you don't have Angostura bitters, you can use orange bitters or peychaud's bitters.

The Mayfair Twist:

Ingredients:

• Gin: 2 oz
• Elderflower Liqueur: 0.5 oz
• Lemon Juice: 0.5 oz
• Angostura Bitters: 2 dashes
• Cucumber Ribbon: 1 for garnish Recipe and Flavor: Follow the same steps as the original Wellesley but substitute the orange liqueur with elderflower liqueur. The cucumber ribbon adds a spa-like freshness. This version is more floral and lightly sweeter, giving it a springtime vibe.

The Kensington Zest:

Ingredients:

• Herbal Gin: 2 oz
• Aperol: 0.5 oz
• Lime Juice: 0.5 oz
• Chocolate Bitters: 2 dashes
• Grapefruit Twist: 1 for garnish Recipe and Flavor: Swap the gin for a more herbal variety, the orange liqueur for Aperol, and the lemon juice for lime. The chocolate bitters add an unexpected but delightful depth. This twist is bolder with a slight bitter edge, perfect for those who enjoy a more adventurous taste.

The Bloomsbury Blush:

Ingredients:

• Rose Infused Gin: 2 oz
• Orange Liqueur: 0.5 oz
• Grapefruit Juice: 0.5 oz
• Peychaud's Bitters: 2 dashes
• Rose Petals: a few for garnish Recipe and Flavor: This romantic alteration uses rose-infused gin and grapefruit juice, accented by Peychaud's Bitters. The garnish of rose petals adds to the allure. The result is a cocktail with a floral bouquet and a touch of bitterness, creating a sophisticated, sensory treat.