📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Rye
Alcohol 20%
Calories 230 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 12g
Prep time 4 minutes
Imagine finding the secret to a perfect sunny afternoon in a glass – that’s the Prince of Wales cocktail for you. It’s a bubbly, fruity drink with a touch of royalty in every sip. Let’s explore its history, flavors, and how to make it together! ⬇️
History
The Prince of Wales cocktail has regal roots, dating back to the 19th century. It was named after the title traditionally given to the heir to the British throne. This drink has been enjoyed by high society and cocktail aficionados alike for generations.
- The name ‘Prince of Wales’ has been associated with this cocktail since the Victorian era.
- It was a favorite among the British elite and often served at upscale gatherings.
- The cocktail’s composition has evolved over time, reflecting changing tastes and ingredient availability.
The taste of a Prince of Wales?
The Prince of Wales cocktail dances on your palate with a sparkling blend of champagne and citrus. It’s a sweet and refreshing mix, with a hint of warmth from the whisky.
I personally love drinking Prince of Wales because it feels like a celebration in a cup, perfect for toasting to life’s special moments.
Interesting facts about Prince of Wales
- The original recipe included a dash of Angostura bitters, which adds a complex layer of flavor.
- Champagne wasn’t always the sparkling wine of choice; early versions sometimes used other effervescent wines.
- The cocktail has been adapted in various cultures, each adding a local twist to the classic recipe.
Ingredients 📃
- Rye Whisky: 1.5 oz (45ml)
- Pineapple Juice: 1 oz (30ml)
- Angostura Bitters: 2 dashes
- Champagne: Top up
- Lemon Twist: For garnish
- Powdered Sugar: A pinch
Champagne flute is the best glass to use when serving a Prince of Wales. Its tall and narrow shape preserves the bubbles and enhances the drink’s effervescence. An alternative could be a coupe glass, which also offers a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Recipe. How to make Prince of Wales 🍹
- Mix rye whisky, 1.5 oz, with 1 oz of pineapple juice and a pinch of powdered sugar in a shaker.
- Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters, shake well and strain into a chilled champagne flute.
- Top up with chilled champagne and garnish with a lemon twist.
The Prince of Wales cocktail does have sugar and alcohol, which can be a bit much for some. A healthier version might use less sugar or a natural sweetener, and the whisky does provide some antioxidants.
Food Pairings
A Prince of Wales cocktail can elevate a meal with its sparkling character. Here are some foods to pair it with:
Charcuterie
The fruity and effervescent qualities of the Prince of Wales cut through the richness of cured meats, making for a delightful combination.
Spicy Asian Cuisine
The sweetness of the pineapple juice and the fizz of the champagne can cool down and complement the heat from dishes like spicy Thai noodles.
Cheese Platter
The complexity of aged cheeses pairs well with the bubbly and slightly sweet notes of this cocktail, creating a balance of flavors.
I really enjoy the taste of Prince of Waless—the cool fizz and zesty twist make it a perfect drink for celebrating the little things.
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Bartender Advice
- Chill your champagne flute before serving to keep the drink cool and refreshing.
- Always use fresh pineapple juice for a brighter flavor profile.
- When topping up with champagne, pour slowly to preserve the bubbles and prevent overflow.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Prince of Wales, we’ll explore how you can put your own twist on it and discover exciting variations in the sections below.
What you could change in Prince of Wales
- Rye Whisky: Swap with bourbon for a sweeter, fuller flavor.
- Pineapple Juice: Try using fresh mango juice for a tropical twist.
- Champagne: Experiment with different types of sparkling wine to find your preferred level of sweetness and fizz.
Prince of Wales Variations
Royal Refresher
- Ingredients: Replace rye whisky with gin, add cucumber slices.
- Recipe: Muddle cucumber with gin, then follow the standard Prince of Wales recipe.
Southern Prince
- Ingredients: Use bourbon instead of rye, add peach bitters.
- Recipe: Mix bourbon and peach bitters with pineapple juice, then top with champagne.
Tropical Heir
- Ingredients: Add coconut water and a splash of blue curaçao.
- Recipe: Shake whisky, coconut water, and pineapple juice with ice, then layer with blue curaçao and top with champagne.
For a non-alcoholic version, mix pineapple juice with sparkling apple cider and a dash of lemon juice. Top with a lemon twist for a refreshing Virgin Prince of Wales.
Q&A
Can I make a Prince of Wales ahead of time?
You can mix the whisky, pineapple juice, and bitters in advance, but add the champagne right before serving to keep it bubbly.
What’s the best champagne to use?
A drier champagne, like a Brut, balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Is the Prince of Wales cocktail strong?
It’s moderately strong, but the champagne lightens it up, making it more refreshing.
Can I use a sugar cube instead of powdered sugar?
Absolutely, just muddle it with the bitters before adding the other ingredients.
Are there any seasonal variations of the Prince of Wales?
Yes, you can use seasonal fruits and spices to create a festive twist for any occasion.
Can the Prince of Wales be made in large batches for parties?
Certainly! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of guests, but remember to top each glass with champagne individually.
