COSMOPOLITAN
The Cosmopolitan: The 1990s Icon
The Cosmopolitan's creation is disputed, with several bartenders claiming credit. The most widely accepted origin credits Toby Cecchini, who developed the modern recipe in 1988 at The Odeon in New York City, refining an earlier version that used Rose's lime juice and rail vodka, according to Punch.
Earlier versions appeared in the 1970s, but Cecchini's formula using citrus vodka, Cointreau, fresh lime juice, and cranberry juice became the standard. The cocktail combines these ingredients to create a balanced, tart drink with a distinctive pink color, as noted in Liquor.com.
The Cosmopolitan gained massive popularity during the 1990s, particularly after appearing regularly on HBO's Sex and the City from 1998 to 2004. The show's characters, especially Carrie Bradshaw, made the "Cosmo" synonymous with cosmopolitan femininity and New York nightlife, according to Difford's Guide.
The drink became one of the most recognized cocktails of the 1990s and early 2000s, though it experienced backlash during the craft cocktail revival before finding renewed appreciation as a legitimate modern classic.
RECIPE:
1.5 oz vodka (citrus vodka preferred)
1 oz Cointreau
1/2 oz fresh lime juice
1/2 oz cranberry juice
Lemon twist for garnish
Method:
Add vodka, Cointreau, lime juice, and cranberry juice to a shaker with ice.
Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
Strain into a chilled martini glass.
Express lemon twist over the drink and garnish.