Prohibition Cocktails: The Spirit of the Roaring Twenties

The Prohibition era in the United States (1920–1933) was a wild time for cocktails. With alcohol banned, bartenders got creative, mixing drinks that masked harsh flavors and used whatever ingredients were on hand. These cocktails were often strong, flavorful, and sometimes a little sneaky. Today, prohibition cocktails are celebrated for their history and bold taste. Let’s dive into some classic styles and an original recipe inspired by those clandestine days.

The Rise of Speakeasy Drinks

During Prohibition, speakeasies—secret bars hidden behind unmarked doors—sprang up everywhere. Bartenders had to disguise poor-quality or homemade spirits by adding sweeteners, citrus, and bitters. This gave birth to many iconic cocktails still loved today.

Popular Prohibition Cocktails

1) The Bee’s Knees: Gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup combined to sweeten and smooth out the rough edges of bootleg gin.

2) The Sidecar: A mix of cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice, this cocktail brought a touch of class to the underground scene.

3) The Southside: Gin, lime juice, simple syrup, and mint leaves—refreshing and crisp, perfect for hiding the sharpness of bathtub gin.

Original Prohibition-Inspired Cocktail Recipe: The Blind Tiger

This cocktail pays homage to the secret bars called “blind tigers” where illegal booze flowed freely. It balances tart citrus with herbal notes and a touch of sweetness.

The Blind Tiger

1) 45 ml Gin (a London dry style works best)

2) 20 ml Fresh lemon juice

3) 15 ml Honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)

4) 10 ml Green Chartreuse

5) 2 dashes Angostura bitters

6) Fresh mint sprig for garnish

**Instructions:**

Fill a shaker with ice. Add gin, lemon juice, honey syrup, green Chartreuse, and bitters. Shake vigorously until well chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig.

The Blind Tiger is tart, slightly sweet, and herbaceous, a perfect tribute to the inventive spirit of the Prohibition bartender.

Prohibition cocktails are more than just drinks; they’re a taste of history wrapped in mystery and rebellion. The clever combinations that hid the less-than-perfect liquors of the 1920s have become timeless recipes that bartenders and enthusiasts alike love to revisit and remix, and it remains a timeless crowd-pleaser like the history and recipes of classic speakeasy cocktails

"How to Enjoy Prohibition Cocktails Today

Recreating these drinks at home offers a glimpse into the past. Using quality ingredients and fresh citrus will elevate these recipes far beyond their bootleg origins. Experiment with different gins or bitters to find your favorite twist.

Tips for Mixing Prohibition Cocktails

1) Use fresh lemon or lime juice for brightness.

2) Sweeten with honey syrup or simple syrup to balance tartness.

3) Don’t skimp on bitters—they add depth and complexity.

4) Serve in classic glassware like coupes or highballs for authenticity.

Why They Still Matter

Prohibition cocktails remind us how creativity flourishes even under restrictions. They symbolize resilience and the joy of gathering with friends over a well-crafted drink. Whether you’re a history buff or just love a good cocktail, these recipes bring a little Roaring Twenties magic to your glass.

Raise your glass to the past and sip on a piece of history that’s as bold and spirited as the era itself.