The American Trilogy is a variation on the Old Fashioned, an admittedly difficult cocktail to improve upon. Perhaps aware of this, the American Trilogy doesn’t stray too far from the original recipe. With hints of apple and strong notes of bitter orange, it’s lighter and less sweet than its cousin. If you drink a lot of Old Fashioneds, you might find it a welcome change.
Instead of using straight rye, the American Trilogy combines it with Laird’s Applejack or Bonded Apple Brandy. Use the latter if you have it, but the Applejack will do just fine if not. Similarly, a white sugar cube can replace a brown one. You can also use simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter cocktail; much of the sugar will get left in the mixing glass if you use the cube.
History: The American Trilogy was invented by Richie Boccado at Little Branch in New York City. The “trilogy” in question probably refers to the rye, applejack, and orange bitters. The first two are recognizably American, and while we’re not exactly world-renowned for our bitters, most of the varieties you pick up have probably been made here. The most common bitters brand, Fee Brothers, was founded in Rochester, NY in 1863.
American Trilogy
1 oz. rye
1 oz. apple brandy or Laird’s Applejack
1 brown sugar cube
4 dashes orange bitters
Soak sugar cube in bitters and place at the bottom of a mixing glass. Muddle into a crumbly paste. Add rye, apple brandy, and ice. Stir well. Strain into a rocks glass. Serve neat or with one large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist.
Recipe adapted from Punch.