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**Scroll to the bottom of this article for delicious cocktail recipes, all curated by influential African American mixologists based in the Maryland & Washington, D.C. areas.**
What is Black History Month?
February is a month dedicated to recognizing key African American’s achievements and contributions to America’s culture and society throughout history. Formalized in 1976, Black History Month, also known as African American History Month, celebrates important individuals contributing their expertise and gumption to their trade, paving the way for future generations to continue and build upon their legacy.
One trade that continues to be a significant contributor to American society and societies from all over the world is the beverage and cocktail trade.
African American Cocktail Culture
Starting in the earliest days of European colonization, African Americans have been mixing cocktails. A freed slave by the name of Cato Alexander disrupted the industry when he opened his own establishment in New York called Cato’s. Another notable bartender in the 1800’s was John Dabney, creator of the famous Mint Julep. While it was common for African American bartenders to be overlooked, a man by the name of Tom Bullock made it a point to leave his mark in history. In 1917, Bullock was the first African American to create a cocktail book, “The Ideal Bartender.” The enactment of prohibition years following the book’s release prevented it from reaching many African American bartenders, however, in recent years the 150-cocktail recipe book was reprinted and distributed. Cocktails recipes that are highlighted in his book include Cohasset Punch, the Free Love cocktail and the Pousse Café. The racism and inequality during the 18th and 19th centuries did not stop these remarkable men from leaving their much-appreciated legacy for future African American bartenders.
What is Cognac?
Cognac is an amber coloured spirit, made in the wine growing regions of Charente and Charente-Maritime surrounding the town of Cognac, France. It is made from distilling white wine to create eau-de-vie, ageing it in oak barrels for a minimum of two years and then blending different eaux-de-vie to create a specific flavour. The Cognac region is divided into six zones, called ‘crus’ - Borderies, Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Fins Bois, Bon Bois and Bois Ordinaire. Cognac is a type of brandy, but earns its name following very strict production methods.
How to Drink Cognac?
The days of the cliché cognac drinker being reserved to cigar smokers sitting in front of an open fire are long gone. While certain cognacs are a perfect match to the aromas of a good cigar, cognac can be enjoyed anywhere and in a variety of ways. Cognac may be enjoyed neat, with ice or diluted with a little water. A tulip glass, rather than a balloon glass, is recommended since it assures a much better appreciation of the entire aromatic range of the cognac. Cognac can also be mixed in a wide range of traditional and specialty cocktails.
Martell Cognac History and Heritage
Martell is the oldest of the great Cognac houses creating cognacs that have been enjoyed and cherished for three centuries. 300 years of passion and precision have been passed down through the Martell family from generation to generation, treasuring the beauty and pleasure of every moment in celebration of French Art de Vivre. Martell has mastered craftsmanship through three axes—place, precision and time. This expertise and emotion has been passed from hand to hand since 1715.
Cocktail Recipes Featuring Martell Cognac & Curated by African American Mixologists:
