Cablegram cocktail recipe

Making the most of the much-loved classic ginger beer and whiskey combination, the Cablegram first appeared in the early 1900s, but back then, it was with bourbon whiskey instead of rye. Substituting bourbon means the Cablegram has a bit more of a spicy kick to it, which is accentuated by the lime juice and bitters, and, of course, the type of ginger beer you use.  

Despite its long history, the Cablegram hasn’t been a consistent feature on cocktail lists all this time. It’s believed that it wasn’t until 2009 that this cocktail got another moment in the sun when it was brought back to life at LA bar The Varnish. Here, it got the crafty touch – with ginger syrup and soda replacing the ginger ale, and the rye in place of bourbon – and it fast won people over.  

Experimenting with different types of whiskey will give the Cablegram a slightly different flavour profile. As mentioned, it’s believed that bourbon was the OG mixer here, so switch it out and see what it does to the drink. Depending on the bourbon you choose, this may mean more honeyed, caramel notes.

And with so many different ginger beers and ginger ales available these days, especially artisan offerings that bring more kick and less sugar, you can really have a play with how much of a kick you want in your Cablegram.