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Monkey Gland cocktail
Alcoholic Ordinary Drink Cocktail glass Medium

Monkey Gland

The Monkey Gland is a vibrant and quirky cocktail that combines the botanical notes of gin with the sweetness of grenadine and the citrusy zing of orange juice. Its unique flavor profile and eye-catching color make it a fun choice for adventurous drinkers.

4 Ingredients
5 min Prep Time
Cocktail glass Glass
Chilled Best Served
sweet sour refreshing

Ingredients

  • Gin spirit 60 ml (2 oz)
  • Benedictine liqueur 5 ml (1 tsp)
  • Orange juice juice 15 ml (1/2 oz)
  • Grenadine syrup 5 ml (1 tsp)

How to Make a Monkey Gland

Shake well over ice cubes in a shaker, strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Bartender Tip

💡

For an extra touch, garnish with an orange twist to enhance the citrus aroma.

History of the Monkey Gland

The Monkey Gland cocktail is believed to have originated in the 1920s, named after a controversial surgical procedure that was popular at the time. It was famously served at Harry's New York Bar in Paris.

About the Monkey Gland

The Monkey Gland is a ordinary drink that belongs to the alcoholic family of cocktails. It is traditionally prepared with Gin, Benedictine, Orange juice and served in a Cocktail glass.

Best enjoyed at parties, during celebrations, at brunch.

As with all alcoholic beverages, please enjoy this cocktail responsibly.

IBA Classic

Did You Know?

The Monkey Gland cocktail was once a popular drink among the avant-garde crowd in Paris, and its unusual name has intrigued many cocktail enthusiasts over the years.

Monkey Gland Variations

Monkey Gland Fizz This variation adds soda water for a refreshing twist, making it a fizzy cocktail. Swap: Add soda water instead of using only orange juice.
Tropical Monkey Gland Incorporates pineapple juice instead of orange juice for a tropical flavor profile. Swap: Swap orange juice for pineapple juice.

Pairs Well With

Spicy shrimp tacos Citrus marinated chicken Chocolate mousse

Quick Facts

~180
Calories
Medium
Strength
5 min
Prep Time

Common Mistake

A common mistake is using too much grenadine, which can overpower the cocktail's balance and make it overly sweet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the Monkey Gland cocktail?

The Monkey Gland cocktail is believed to have been created in the 1920s, attributed to the famous bartender Harry MacElhone at the New York Bar in Paris. Its name is derived from a controversial surgical procedure at the time, which was thought to rejuvenate vitality.

Can I use fresh orange juice for the Monkey Gland?

Absolutely! Freshly squeezed orange juice enhances the cocktail's flavor profile, providing a brighter and more vibrant taste compared to store-bought juice. This freshness is key to achieving the cocktail's signature zing.

What type of gin works best in a Monkey Gland?

A London Dry gin is often recommended for the Monkey Gland due to its strong botanical flavors that complement the sweetness of grenadine and the acidity of orange juice. However, experimenting with different gin styles can yield interesting variations.

Is the Monkey Gland cocktail suitable for those who dislike gin?

While the Monkey Gland features gin as a primary ingredient, the sweetness from grenadine and the citrusy orange juice can mask some of the gin's strong flavors. If you're not a fan of gin, consider using a lighter gin or a gin alternative to make it more palatable.

What glassware is recommended for serving a Monkey Gland?

The Monkey Gland is traditionally served in a chilled cocktail glass, also known as a coupe glass. This glassware not only enhances the cocktail's presentation but also helps maintain its cool temperature.

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