Paris Between the Wars

Paris Between the Wars (Scotch Edition): A Smoky Toast to an Iconic Era

The Paris Between the Wars cocktail isn't just a drink it's a time capsule in a coupe glass. Inspired by the artistic explosion and cultural reinvention of 1920s to 1930s Paris the vibrant years between World War I and World War II this cocktail captures the smoky elegance and bittersweet nostalgia of the era.

While the original version uses Cognac as its base, this Scotch-based variation brings deeper, moodier complexity. The signature richness of whisky, paired with vermouth, bitters, and a touch of absinthe, evokes a smoky jazz club in Montmartre or a quiet moment in a literary café. With each sip, you're drinking in history.

The Spirit of Interwar Paris

After the trauma of World War I, Paris became a mecca for creative souls. The "Lost Generation" including the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, and F. Scott Fitzgerald — mingled with jazz musicians, surrealist painters, and philosophers. In smoky rooms filled with music and revolution, cocktails flowed, conversation soared, and boundaries were broken.

While French spirits like Cognac and Champagne dominated, Scotch whisky began making its own quiet appearance. Its boldness made it a favorite among ex-pats and intellectuals, and today, it provides the perfect base for this darker take on a Parisian classic.

Paris Between the Wars (Scotch Version) Cocktail Recipe

• 1 oz (30 ml) Scotch whisky (blended or lightly peated single malt)
• 1 oz (30 ml) Sweet Vermouth
• 1 oz (30 ml) Dry Vermouth
• 2 dashes Orange Bitters (about 4-6 drops)
• 1 dash (or ¼ tsp / ~1 ml) Absinthe — or use a rinse
• Absinthe
• Lemon twist or orange peel

Step-By-Step Recipe

1. Chill Your Glass: Place your cocktail glass in the freezer or fill with ice water to chill while preparing the drink.
2. Stir the Cocktail: In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine all ingredients.
3. Absinthe Rinse: Discard the ice or water from your chilled coupe. Add 1 dash (or ¼ tsp / ~1 ml) of absinthe to the glass. Swirl to coat the interior, then discard the excess.
4. Strain and Serve : Strain the cocktail from the mixing glass into the absinthe-rinsed coupe.
5. Add Champagne (Optional):If desired, add ½ oz (15 ml) of brut Champagne to lighten and elevate the drink.
6. Garnish: Express the oils from a lemon or orange twist over the drink, and either drop it in or place it on the rim.

Tasting Notes

This version of the Paris Between the Wars is smooth, smoky, and emotionally layered. The Scotch adds bold character and depth, while the vermouths offer a balance of herbaceous sweetness and dry clarity. The absinthe rinse whispers a haunting green aroma, while orange bitters subtly tie the flavors together. If you add Champagne, the bubbles add contrast and brightness — much like the glimmers of joy amid uncertain times.

Cultural and Historical Echoes

Where Cognac speaks of golden luxury, Scotch whispers of poetry and introspection. It brings an edge of mystery to a drink already steeped in history.

In a literary café in 1927, this Scotch version of the Paris Between the Wars might have been sipped by a moody writer reading Baudelaire or a jazz saxophonist between sets. It feels just as appropriate in a candlelit lounge today as it would have in a smoky bistro nearly a century ago.

Pairing Suggestions

This cocktail pairs best with savory, herbal, or earthy flavors:

• Cheese & Charcuterie Board: Smoked gouda, brie, duck prosciutto
• Duck Confit or Roasted Lamb: Rich meats balance the vermouth and whisky
• Wild Mushroom Tartlets: Echo the earthiness of the Scotch
• Dark Chocolate Truffles or Orange Peel Dipped in Chocolate
• French Tartiflette: Creamy, cheesy, and hearty comfort food

Final Thoughts

The Scotch version of the Paris Between the Wars cocktail is deep, mysterious, and timeless. It's a moody love letter to an era when art and culture flourished in the shadow of global turmoil. Its balanced, complex flavor invites you to slow down, sip mindfully, and immerse yourself in the mood and melody of an unforgettable moment in history.

Whether you're enjoying it while reading Hemingway, hosting a themed party, or simply craving something classy and contemplative, this cocktail delivers in every way.