“Peaky Blinders,” a riveting TV series set in post-World War I Birmingham, has captivated audiences worldwide with its gritty portrayal of the Shelby crime family. Its cultural impact extends beyond the screen, influencing fashion, music, and now, the intriguing world of cocktails.
The show’s atmospheric setting in the Roaring Twenties, an era renowned for its extravagant parties and speakeasies, serves as a perfect backdrop for exploring the rich cocktail culture of the time.
Let’s immerse ourselves in this captivating era by crafting cocktails that celebrate the spirit of “Peaky Blinders.”
The 1920s Cocktail Scene
The 1920s, often referred to as the Roaring Twenties, was a golden era for cocktail culture. This period marked the height of Prohibition in the United States, which ironically led to a surge in underground speakeasies and illicit bars.
These hidden establishments became hotbeds of creativity in mixology, as bartenders experimented with new ingredients to mask the harsh flavors of bootlegged spirits. Classic cocktails like the Sidecar, Mary Pickford, and the French 75 rose to fame during this era, characterized by their sophisticated blends and bold flavours.
In Europe, particularly in cities like Paris and London, the cocktail scene thrived openly, with legendary bars creating concoctions that are still celebrated today.
This was a time of jazz, flappers, and a rebellious spirit against traditional norms, all of which influenced the vibrant cocktail scene. The 1920s cocktails were more than just drinks; they were a symbol of defiance, luxury, and the transformative spirit of the time.
As we delve into the world of “Peaky Blinders,” we find a perfect alignment with this audacious era, inspiring a range of cocktails that echo the intensity and allure of the series.
Peaky Blinders Inspired Cocktails
The Shelby Sour
- A twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, embodying the boldness of the Shelby family.
- Ingredients: 2 oz bourbon, 1 oz lemon juice, 0.5 oz simple syrup, egg white.
- Preparation: Shake vigorously and serve in a coupe glass with a dash of bitters.
The Garrison
- Named after the Shelby’s local pub, a robust and potent mix.
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz Irish whiskey, 0.5 oz dry vermouth, 0.5 oz green chartreuse.
- Preparation: Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
Polly’s Potion
- A tribute to the matriarch, Polly Gray, offering a refreshing yet powerful taste.
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz gin, 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice, 0.5 oz raspberry syrup.
- Preparation: Blend and top with soda water.
Arthur’s Rage
- Reflecting Arthur Shelby’s fiery temperament.
- Ingredients: 2 oz rye whiskey, 0.5 oz ginger liqueur, splash of lime juice.
- Preparation: Combine and serve over ice with a ginger beer top-up.
The Blinder
- A mysterious and dark cocktail, much like the show.
- Ingredients: 2 oz dark rum, 1 oz coffee liqueur, splash of cola.
- Preparation: Mix and serve in a highball glass over ice.
The Grace
- Elegant and sophisticated, like Grace Shelby.
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz vodka, 1 oz elderflower liqueur, 0.5 oz lime juice.
- Preparation: Stir, top with prosecco, and garnish with a twist of lemon.
Tommy’s Torment
- Reflecting Tommy Shelby’s complex character.
- Ingredients: 2 oz Scotch whisky, 0.5 oz Drambuie, dash of angostura bitters.
- Preparation: Stir with ice and strain into a glass.
The Lizzie Starke
- Named after Lizzie’s strength and charm.
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz tequila, 1 oz pink grapefruit juice, 0.5 oz honey syrup.
- Preparation: Shake, strain into a salt-rimmed glass, and garnish with a grapefruit slice.
The Camden Paloma
- A nod to the bustling streets of Camden, frequented by the Shelbys.
- Ingredients: 2 oz mezcal, 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice, 0.5 oz lime juice, 0.5 oz agave syrup.
- Preparation: Mix, serve over ice in a clay mug, and top with club soda.
The Sabini’s Revenge
- A cocktail as intriguing as the rivalry with Sabini.
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz cognac, 1 oz sweet vermouth, dash of Fernet Branca.
- Preparation: Stir well and strain into a martini glass.
The Alfie Solomons
- As unpredictable as Alfie himself.
- Ingredients: 2 oz gin, 0.75 oz lemon juice, 0.5 oz simple syrup, spoonful of apricot jam.
- Preparation: Shake and strain into a glass, garnishing with a twist of lemon.
The May Carleton
- Elegant and high-class, like May herself.
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz bourbon, 0.75 oz Aperol, 0.5 oz sweet vermouth.
- Preparation: Stir with ice, strain into a coupe, and garnish with an orange twist.
The Changretta Clout
- A mix of cultures, like Luca Changretta.
- Ingredients: 2 oz bourbon, 1 oz amaretto, 0.5 oz lemon juice.
- Preparation: Shake, serve over ice, and garnish with a cherry.
The Derby Day
- Inspired by the horse races.
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz rye whiskey, 0.75 oz sweet vermouth, 2 dashes of orange bitters.
- Preparation: Stir and serve over ice with an orange garnish.
The Birmingham Blackout
- A strong, dark drink for the end of a night.
- Ingredients: 2 oz black spiced rum, 1 oz coffee liqueur, splash of cream.
- Preparation: Blend and serve in a rocks glass over ice.
Conclusion
Dive into the world of “Peaky Blinders” with these 1920s-inspired cocktails. Whether you’re hosting a themed party or simply enjoying a night in, these drinks are sure to add a touch of Shelby-style flair. So, don your flat cap, raise a glass, and say cheers to the roaring twenties!
