Bamboo cocktail

The Bamboo cocktail was first created in the late 1800s and is often credited to Louis Eppinger at the Grand Hotel in Yokohama, Japan. Unlike whiskey- or gin-heavy cocktails, the Bamboo uses fortified wines instead, blending sherry and dry vermouth with bitters for a delicate, nutty, and herbal profile. It is a low-ABV option, similar in spirit to the Americano or the sparkling Aperol Spritz, and makes a refined aperitif.

  • Prep Time:
  • Total Time:
  • Servings: 1
  • Type: Cocktail
  • Units: 1.2

Ingredients

  • 45 ml dry sherry
  • 45 ml dry vermouth
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  • 2 dashes orange bitters
  • Lemon twist

Instructions

  1. Add the sherry, vermouth, and bitters into a mixing glass with ice
  2. Stir until well chilled
  3. Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass
  4. Garnish with a lemon twist
The Bamboo is one of the earliest known sherry cocktails, first mixed by Louis Eppinger in Yokohama during the 1890s, making it a truly international classic.

FAQ

What makes the Bamboo different from other sherry cocktails?

The Bamboo is a dry, low-ABV aperitif. Unlike the creamy Eggnog or the citrusy Sherry Cobbler, it is spirit-free and relies on fortified wines for flavour.

Is the Bamboo a good low-alcohol option?

Yes, with around 1.2 units, it is lighter than cocktails such as the Martinez or the Manhattan.

Can I substitute ingredients in a Bamboo cocktail?

You can try sweet vermouth for a rounder taste, or experiment with different bitters. If you prefer a more bitter edge, consider the Negroni as an alternative.

What food pairs well with a Bamboo cocktail?

Its dry, nutty character makes it an excellent aperitif, pairing well with tapas, olives, and seafood, similar to how the Americano works with light bites.

What other cocktails are similar to the Bamboo?

If you like the Bamboo, try the Americano, the Martini, or the wine-based Spritz Veneziano.

Please note that the units field is an estimation, and will vary depending on the type and quantity of alcohol used. Please drink responsibly and legally.
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