The Vancouver (Canucks) Cocktail

The last time our boys were in the Stanley Cup finals was in 1994 so it’s no surprise that the city is beyond hyped. Add to the equation the fact that we’ve reached game 7 and you can imagine the dense anticipation that fills the air.

Canucks themed food now dominates many restaurant menus and eager fans are wolfing it down for good luck. But if you prefer something less tawdry, here’s a quintessential Vancouver classic for you.

This lesser-known but truly refined cocktail was created at the Sylvia Hotel in English Bay around 1955. As with all cocktail classics, a legend surrounds this drink. As the story goes, the Vancouver Cocktail was the last concoction that actor Errol Flynn enjoyed before he died in Vancouver. I’ve never seen his films but mysterious death conjures undeniable appeal regardlessly.

Tales aside, we are all hoping with clenched fists that the Vancouver Canucks will make history tomorrow. So here’s to the boys, their currently insomniac fans, and my beautiful city.

For those not nearly as enthusiastic about hockey, don’t let that impede you from a great cocktail. This complex sipper has round caramel notes that are coaxed out by a hit of orange bitters. The essential oils from the lemon zest that rims the glass lures me in every time.

The Vancouver Cocktail

• 2 oz. gin
• 0.5 oz. sweet vermouth
• a splash of Benedictine
• a good dash of orange bitters
• lemon peel

1. Chill a cocktail glass with ice.
2. Stir the ingredients in a separate, ice filled glass to chill.
3. Empty the cocktail glass and strain the cocktail into it.
4. Finish with the lemon peel and serve straight up.

Reference. Thanks, Steve Da Cruz for sharing the recipe.

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