Going out to the fanciest bar and getting the most expensive drink is fun and all, but there is a reason many of the most beloved cocktails are the simple ones with lots of flavor. The horse’s neck cocktail is the perfect example.

A horse’s neck is a classic cocktail that dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The drink got its name from its distinctive garnish, a long, spiraled lemon peel that resembles the shape of a horse’s neck. The cocktail is traditionally made with brandy, bourbon or rye whiskey.

The horse’s neck cocktail originally started as a non-alcoholic drink consisting of ginger ale and a long spiral of lemon peel. In the early 20th century, the cocktail evolved to include brandy (or whiskey). The addition of alcohol made it more appealing to a broader audience, especially during the Prohibition era when simple yet elegant cocktails were all the rave. The horse’s neck has maintained its popularity over the years due to its simplicity, elegance, and refreshing taste. It’s a great option for those who enjoy classic cocktails and appreciate the combination of citrus and ginger with a robust spirit base.

Make one of these horse’s neck cocktails simply with only three to four ingredients. Making the lemon peel garnish is the only step that can be tricky, so make sure you have a good knife or fruit/vegetable peeler.

How To Make The Horse’s Neck Cocktail

The horse’s neck is a refreshing and simple cocktail, and that is why it has been a staple for so long. The balance of sweet, tangy and spicy flavors makes it a versatile cocktail suitable for various occasions, from casual gatherings to more formal events.

What You’ll Need

• 2 ounces brandy (or bourbon/rye whiskey)
• Ginger ale
• Angostura bitters (optional)
• Ice
• Lemon peel (for garnish)

Prepare the Lemon Peel

Using a vegetable peeler or a knife (specifically a channel knife if you have one), cut a long, continuous strip of lemon peel. This should be long enough to spiral around the inside of the glass and extend over the rim.

Prepare the Glass

Place the lemon peel in a highball glass, spiraling it around the inside of the glass so that one end drapes over the rim.

Add the Brandy

Pour 2 ounces of brandy (or bourbon/rye whiskey) into the glass.

Add Ice

Fill the glass with the desired number of ice cubes.

Add Ginger Ale

Top up the glass with ginger ale.

Optional Bitters

If desired, add a dash or two of Angostura bitters to the drink for added complexity and depth of flavor.

Stir and Serve

Give the drink a gentle stir to mix the ingredients. Serve immediately and enjoy!