"The Boys in the Boat" and the 1936 Olympic Fizz cocktail!
The Paris Olympic Games kick off tomorrow, and I wanted to celebrate an Olympic story from our book club's backlog. It doesn't get better than "The Boys in the Boat."
"The Boys in the Boat" by Daniel James Brown is an amazing story about the American rowing team that competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. During the Great Depression, nine scrappy, working-class boys from the University of Washington defied the odds to become a legendary team. At the story's heart is Joe Rantz, whose grit and determination helped him overcome a challenging and sometimes parentless childhood.
With the help of their dedicated coach, Al Ulbrickson, and the genius boat builder, George Pocock, the team developed a unique rowing style that was all about harmony and unity. Their four-year journey to the Olympics was filled with vigorous training, fierce rivalries, and emotionally whiplashed victories, leading to a nail-biter final race. The book not only celebrates their remarkable achievements but also depicts a picture of the 1930s, including the rise of Nazi Germany, all while showcasing the power of perseverance, teamwork, and the human spirit.
To celebrate the incredible story of "The Boys in the Boat” I give you the 1936 Olympic Fizz cocktail! This delightful drink is a playful twist on the classic Gin Fizz and is a nod to the American crew's spirit, precision, and unity. Created around the 1880’s, the Fizz cocktails were known as morning-after hangover cures, filled with citrus, bubbles, and protein. Just like their synchronized rowing led to victory, this blend of ingredients creates a refreshing, character-filled drink. Cheers to the legacy of "The Boys in the Boat" and the Olympic spirit!
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Gin: A classic spirit that nods to the era, I used Oola’s Waitsburg Barrel-Finished Gin out of Washington State.
- 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice: For a burst of zest and vigor.
- ¾ oz Honey Syrup: Symbolizes sweet teamwork and adds a natural color.
- 1 oz Egg White: Adds smooth texture and foam, balancing the sweet and sour elements.
- Top with Club Soda: Adds a bubbly splash of energy and movement.
- One lemon wheel for a touch of freshness. and/or
- A sprig of mint for an outdoor feel.
Honey syrup:
- Mix 3 Tablespoons of honey and 1 Tablespoon of hot water.
Instructions:
1. In a shaker, combine gin, lemon juice, honey syrup, and egg white. The egg white is key to the frothy consistency, just like the precise teamwork of the rowing crew.
2. Dry shake (without ice) vigorously for at least 15 seconds to create a silky, smooth foam.
3. Add ice to the shaker and shake again vigorously for another 15 seconds to chill the mixture while keeping it frothy.
4. Double strain into a glass without ice.
5. Gently top with club soda for the fizz, carefully pouring it over the back of a spoon to keep the frothy layer intact.
6. Garnish with a lemon wheel and/or a sprig of mint.
This cocktail is more than just a drink; it's a toast to the perseverance and unity of a legendary team. Cheers!
