Harry McElhone, the man behind the famous Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, was the first to mention this classic cocktail in his 1927 tome, Barflies & Cocktails. He seems to credit a wealthy, young American named Erskine Gwynne who ran a publication called of all things, The Boulevardier.
This cocktail reflects the ingenuity and carefree lifestyle possessed by bartenders of the Prohibition Era who moved to Europe. The original recipe called for Canadian Club for obvious reasons, but it is truly at its best with bourbon of a higher proof, like Knob Creek.
1 oz. Gran Classico or Campari1 oz. Bourbon1 oz. Antica Formula Vermouth
Combine all ingredients into a mixing glass (or pint glass) add ice and stir 30 – 35 times. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with an orange peel.