Suffering Bastard

Ingredients

Instructions

A Suffering Bastard cocktail is a bold and spirited drink that blends the flavors of gin, brandy, lime juice, bitters, and ginger ale. This cocktail has an interesting backstory and is known for its intriguing combination of ingredients, resulting in a flavorful and refreshing libation.

To craft a Suffering Bastard cocktail, you will need:

• 1 oz gin
• 1 oz brandy
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
• Ginger ale
• Mint sprig for garnish
• Lime wheel for garnish
• Ice cubes

To prepare the cocktail:

1. Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
2. Add the gin, brandy, fresh lime juice, and Angostura bitters to the shaker.
3. Shake the mixture vigorously until well chilled.
4. Strain the shaken mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice cubes.
5. Top off the glass with ginger ale, adding enough to fill the glass.
6. Garnish with a mint sprig and a lime wheel, adding both visual appeal and aromatic essence to the drink.

The Suffering Bastard cocktail is celebrated for its unique combination of flavors. The gin and brandy provide a strong and spirited base, while the fresh lime juice offers a tangy and citrusy kick. The Angostura bitters add complexity and depth, enhancing the overall balance. The ginger ale not only provides effervescence but also lends a pleasant sweetness that counterbalances the other ingredients.

The cocktail's name, "Suffering Bastard," is said to have originated during World War II and was inspired by its invigorating qualities, meant to alleviate the suffering caused by hangovers or a lack of good drinks during wartime.

The garnish of a mint sprig and a lime wheel adds a touch of freshness and an aromatic element to the cocktail. The Suffering Bastard cocktail is a favorite among those who enjoy a strong and flavorful libation with a touch of history and character.