The Bamboo is an exceptional cocktail that doesn’t feature whiskey, vodka, gin, cognac, tequila, or any of their usual companions. Light and refined, its backbone is formed by sherry and vermouth. The drink’s refreshing nature, along with its floral and slightly spicy notes, blend beautifully to create an elegant and complex flavor profile. It’s an ideal choice as an aperitif—and won’t have you slipping off the bar stool.
Story
In the 1890s, Louis Eppinger, the bar manager at the Grand Hotel Bar in Yokohama, Japan, created the Bamboo cocktail. Eppinger, who was of German descent, developed the drink for both local and international patrons, and its reputation quickly spread across the globe. Japan’s period of cultural opening to the West played a key role in the cocktail’s origins, and today many consider it a true classic.
Ingredients
1 ½ oz (45 ml) fino sherry
1 ½ oz (45 ml) dry vermouth
2 dashes Angostura bitters
1 dash orange bitters
How to Make a Bamboo Cocktail
This cocktail doesn’t require a shaker—a mixing glass will do. Combine the ingredients with ice and stir thoroughly, then strain into a pre-chilled glass.
Serving and Garnish
The Bamboo cocktail is traditionally served in a Nick & Nora or martini glass. Garnish with a twist of lemon peel placed on the rim.
Calorie Content
A serving of Bamboo cocktail contains approximately 100 calories. The calorie content depends mainly on the type of vermouth used.