Overview: Born at the site where JW Marriott Washington, D.C. now stands in 1880s America’s founding city, The Rickey has become an integral part of its culture. With a simple yet refreshing recipe that combines gin over ice with lime and soda water, this cocktail is more than just a drink – it’s an experience.
The Full Story
The origins of the Gin Rickey date back to 1880s Washington, D.C., when lobbyist Colonel Joe Rickey requested his bartender create something invigorating. This historic moment gave birth to what would become America’s official cocktail in its own city – The Washington Post called it “air conditioning in a glass” due to its refreshing qualities during the hot summer months.
This year marks 250 years since D.C.’s founding, with festivals and events celebrating this milestone across the capital. But amidst all the pageantry, there’s an opportunity for guests to experience American history firsthand: through The Rickey. This beloved cocktail has been named one of TimeOut’s must-try cocktails in Washington D.C.
Production & Profile
In 2011, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton and the D.C. City Council formally recognized The Rickey as the city’s official cocktail with support from Derek Brown – a renowned local bartender and spirits expert who wrote about it in The Oxford Companion to Spirits & Cocktails. Today, bartenders stick closely to its three-ingredient recipe: gin over ice, lime at bottom, topped off with soda water.
For maximum authenticity experience the Rickey where it was born. 1331 Bar & Lounge within JW Marriott Washington D.C., has been named as Home of TheRickey and features a commemorative plaque outside their bar dedicated to this iconic cocktail’s roots in history. They use Ford’s Gin along with fresh lime juice which creates an authentic taste that blends tradition perfectly.
Brand & Industry History
While its creation can be credited to Shoomaker’s Bar, now the site of JW Marriott Washington D.C., The Rickey did not immediately gain widespread popularity across America. Rather it grew locally among those familiar with its original spirit – whiskey before switching over mainly to gin due largely in part thanks efforts put forth by local bartender advocates including Derek Brown.
What This Means
Washington, D.C.’s recognition of The Rickey as an official cocktail has paved the way for innovation within bars across America’s capital. Restaurants offer their unique twists on this classic recipe while still honoring its timeless appeal; proof lies in establishments such as Moon Rabbit that incorporate local ingredients into modern versions.
Consumer Takeaway
With 250 years worth of history surrounding it, The Rickey is an experience you cannot afford to miss during your trip. Try sipping the legendary cocktail at one of these recommended locations and let its timeless charm transport you back through time – like Colonel Joe himself once did when he asked for a drink that would be both invigorating yet refreshing enough for his summer days spent politicking in America’s founding city.
Whether exploring Washington D.C.’s vibrant nightlife scene or visiting some of the country’s most iconic landmarks, The Rickey remains an essential component to any traveler’s experience – offering not just another beverage choice but a glimpse into history itself.
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