How to Make a Checker Cocktail

A checker cocktail is a simple, easy-to-make drink containing vodka, gin, blue Curacao, dry vermouth and French vermouth. The drink is traditionally shaken in a cocktail shaker and served in a chilled cocktail glass, but you can pour the mixed drink into a Collins or highball glass half-filled with crushed ice and dry white wine if you prefer. This recipe makes one checker cocktail, served straight up with a lemon peel for garnish.

Things You'll Need

• Cocktail shaker
• Crushed ice
• 2 oz. vodka
• 1 oz. gin
• ½ oz. blue Curacao
• Dash dry vermouth
• Dash French vermouth
• Chilled cocktail glass
• Lemon peel, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with crushed ice.

2. Add the vodka, gin, blue Curacao, dry vermouth and French vermouth to the cocktail shaker.

3. Cover the cocktail shaker and shake vigorously for 10 to 15 seconds. Don't worry about bruising the gin.

4. Strain the contents of the cocktail shaker into a chilled cocktail glass.

5. Garnish the cocktail with a twisted lemon peel and serve immediately while ice cold.

Tips & Warnings

• For a slightly sweeter cocktail, try adding a dash of simple syrup or one-half teaspoon plain powdered sugar to the cocktail shaker before mixing.

References

• "The Ultimate Bar Book"; Hellmich, Mittie; 2006

Resources

• Webtender: Drink Recipes and Bartending Tips
• American Bartenders School: Drink Recipes and Instructional Videos