When it comes to superstar bartenders, there’s one name that every cocktail aficionado should know: Dale DeGroff.
Also known as ‘King Cocktail’, DeGroff’s contribution to modern mixology is groundbreaking, and he single handedly sparked the classic cocktail revival of the 1990’s and 2000s, inventing mixology as we know it today. From reinventing forgotten classics to crafting brand new innovative techniques, DeGroff is responsible for setting the standard in the cocktail world.
Let’s get to know this legendary master mixologist…
Who is Dale DeGroff?
DeGroff started his cocktail journey in the 1970s, perfecting his craft in LA’s Hotel Bel Air. However, it was during his time at New York’s legendary bar, Rainbow Room, in the late 1980s and 1990s that his pioneering methods got him noticed. There, he worked with Joe Baum to deliver a new kind of cocktail menu that concentrated on fresh ingredients and classic recipes to be served up to NYC’s celeb clientele. DeGroff focused on resurrecting heritage cocktails. He delved into dusty old bartender books and recipes, bringing forgotten drinks back into the limelight like the Mint Julep – but adding his own twist to update them and introduce them to a brand new audience.
Another key part of DeGroff’s philosophy was his emphasis on bartending as an art. From crafting unique syrups to mastering the art of ice, he saw bartenders as artisans and encouraged them to take pride in their work. This helped to elevate the profession, leading to a greater understanding of the skills and knowledge required to create truly exceptional cocktails.
DeGroff’s approach to ingredients was also revolutionary. Instead of relying on pre-made mixers, he decided to build each cocktail from scratch (even making his own fruit juices), to bring a gourmet approach to the bar. This dedication to quality is what set him apart and laid the foundation for the modern cocktails we know today.
And in his quest for the very best ingredients, he also developed his own bitters: Dale DeGroff’s Pimento Bitters. What makes these DeGroff bitters so special? Blended with a careful mix of allspice, anise, clove, and other botanicals, the pimento aromatic bitters bring a spicy, yet sweet taste that enhance many cocktails just by adding just a few dashes.
King Cocktail also introduced the ‘hard shake’, a technique that not only chills the drink but also adds air, resulting in a frothy and well-mixed cocktail. This method works best for fruity drinks or recipes that include egg whites or cream, ensuring a smooth and velvety texture.
The final innovative element of Dale DeGroff’s cocktail making is the presentation. From selecting the perfect glassware to crafting intricate garnishes, DeGroff considered every detail so that each cocktail tickled the taste buds but was also a feast for the customer’s eyes!
Dale DeGroff recipes
Renowned for his creativity and imagination, DeGroff’s biggest contribution to mixology is his emphasis on meticulous techniques to really make a drink sing. As a result, his cocktails were delicious and also raised the bar for bartenders everywhere. In fact, his 2002 book, “The Craft of the Cocktail,” became a kind of bible for anyone who wanted to learn the art of mixology, and taught numerous bartenders and cocktail lovers the secrets behind his delicious drinks.
If you haven’t got time to get your own copy, here are some legendary Dale DeGroff drinks for you to try instead:
Cosmopolitan
One of the most famous Dale DeGroff recipes, this iconic cocktail is made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and freshly squeezed lime juice. The Cosmopolitan became a cultural phenomenon in the 1990s, after being featured in the TV series ‘Sex and the City’. Madonna was also snapped sipping on one at the Rainbow Room, and the rest is history! DeGroff elevated the original recipe from the early 80s by adding flamed orange peel, to give it more scent and some visual flair. Try his version that is still widely used today thanks to its balance and elegance:
Ingredients:
- 40ml Citron Vodka (Lemon-flavoured vodka)
- 20ml Cointreau (Orange liqueur)
- 10ml Fresh lime juice
- 30ml Cranberry juice
Method: Pour all the ingredients into a shaker filled with ice, shake well then strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass. Garnish your zingy Cosmopolitan with a lime wedge or a flame some orange peel.
Whiskey Smash
Another classic cocktail that got the Dale DeGroff treatment is the Whiskey Smash. Similar to the Mint Julep, it was first invented by another bartending legend, Jerry Thomas, in the late 1800s. The original recipe combines bourbon, simple syrup and fresh mint, but DeGroff’s fresh take on this traditional cocktail was to introduce the tart lemon that added an extra dimension. Give it a go and see what all the fuss is about…
Ingredients:
- 60ml Bourbon
- 15ml Simple Syrup
- 1 Lemon Wedge
- 6 Mint Leaves
Method: Muddle the simple syrup, lemon wedge and mint in a cocktail shaker with a good quality muddler to release the oils. Add bourbon and shake with ice until it is chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over some crushed ice, then garnish with a mint sprig. DeGroff himself calls this one ‘the perfect cocktail for those who say they’ll never drink whiskey!’ Listen to the expert…
Ritz Cocktail
Created in 1985, this Dale DeGroff cocktail captures the elegance and style of its famous London namesake – with all the sparkle and glamour you’ll ever need! Similar to a French 75, it was also one of the first cocktails that Dale invented. With a smooth mix of cognac, Cointreau, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lemon juice, plus a touch of champagne on top, the result is a refreshing and luxurious drink.
If you’re keen to try your hand at creating this masterpiece, here’s a quick rundown:
- 1 oz cognac
- 1/2 oz Cointreau
- 1/4 oz maraschino liqueur
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- Champagne, to top
Method: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the cognac, Cointreau, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lemon juice. Shake well and strain into a chilled champagne flute. Top with champagne and garnish with a twist of lemon peel, or flame the peel to really give it that DeGroff touch!
Where does Dale DeGroff work?
If you’re hoping to sample a well-crafted cocktail in a Dale DeGroff bar, you’ll be disappointed. Nowadays, King Cocktail is still heavily involved in the world of mixology, but spends his time writing, consulting, and giving seminars, instead of serving customers. He is heavily involved in educating the next generation of bartenders through his workshops and is a sought-after judge speaker at cocktail events and conferences around the world, including Diageo World Class.
He also co-founded the Museum of the American Cocktail in New Orleans and released two more books The Essential Cocktail (2008), and The New Craft of the Cocktail (2020).
You’ll find him on social media too, as @kingcocktail where he shares his extensive knowledge, new cocktail recipes, and insider tips inspiring both at home cocktail fans and professional mixologists alike. Pop him a follow, and say ‘cheers’ to Dale DeGroff!
If you’re feeling motivated to craft your own cocktails, take a look at our bartender course and discover how to work and travel abroad as bartender.
