Refined cocktails for the Year of the Wood Snake
The year 2025 marks the beginning of the Year of the Wood Snake, according to the Chinese calendar, spanning from January 29, 2025, to February 16, 2026. The Snake, the sixth animal in the Chinese zodiac, symbolizes intuition, strategy, and elegance. The Wood element is associated with growth, flexibility, and creativity. This combination suggests a year of refinement and subtle transformations.
The symbolism of the Snake in cocktail culture: from myth to glass
The snake is a powerful symbol, associated with wisdom and healing as well as mystery and temptation. In mixology, these traits have inspired cocktail names and compositions that evoke the essence of the snake. For instance, the “Snakebite” cocktail, blending beer and cider, offers a surprising experience that reflects the unpredictable nature of the snake. Similarly, the “Serpent’s Kiss” is another cocktail that, through its name and composition, suggests a seductive and mysterious combination, mirroring the snake’s symbolism in popular culture.
To celebrate the Year of the Wood Snake, we present three classic cocktails embodying the elegance, depth, and refinement of this zodiac sign, perfect for this period of transformation and renewal.
Classic Martini
A symbol of refinement and simplicity, the classic Martini has been a favorite of many notable personalities over time. The combination of gin and dry vermouth highlights the quality and craftsmanship of preparation, exuding an aura of mystery—perfect for celebrating the Year of the Wood Snake.
How to prepare a Classic Martini
Tip: Use the Professional Cocktail Dispenser by Dr. Drink for a unique cocktail-making experience!
Ingredients:
- 75 ml gin
- 15 ml dry vermouth
- Orange bitters
- One olive, for garnish
Manual preparation: In a shaker, add the gin and vermouth with ice. Stir gently for about 30 seconds. After pouring the mix into a special Martini glass, garnish with a green olive.
Automatic preparation: Mix all ingredients in a shaker in just 5 seconds with a single touch.
Manhattan
Originating from New York, the Manhattan is a classic cocktail combining rye whiskey with sweet vermouth and Angostura bitters. Its rich and complex flavor reflects the depth and mystery associated with the snake, making it the perfect choice for those who appreciate cocktails with character.
How to prepare a Manhattan
Tip: Use the Professional Cocktail Dispenser by Dr. Drink for a unique cocktail-making experience!
Ingredients:
- 60 ml Bourbon whiskey
- 30 ml sweet vermouth (Rosso Martini)
- 5–6 drops of bitters
- 1 cherry
Manual preparation: In a shaker with ice, add Bourbon whiskey and sweet vermouth. Shake well and strain into a cocktail glass filled with ice. Garnish with orange bitters and serve.
Automatic preparation: Mix all ingredients in a shaker in just 5 seconds with a single touch.
Old Fashioned
One of the oldest cocktails, the Old Fashioned is a classic with a balanced taste that evokes tradition and depth—traits associated with the snake in the Chinese zodiac.
How to prepare an Old Fashioned
Tip: Use the Professional Cocktail Dispenser by Dr. Drink for a unique cocktail-making experience!
Ingredients:
- 50 ml Bourbon
- 2–3 drops of Angostura bitters
- Orange peel for garnish
Manual preparation: In a shaker with ice, add all the ingredients and shake well. Pour into a glass with 2–3 ice cubes and garnish with an orange peel.
Automatic preparation: Mix all ingredients in a shaker in just 5 seconds with a single touch.
Professional Cocktail Dispensers by Dr. Drink
To craft each cocktail with the precision and elegance befitting the Year of the Wood Snake—whether it’s a classic Martini, a sophisticated Manhattan, or a timeless Old Fashioned—Dr. Drink is the perfect ally. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and an intuitive menu, the Professional Cocktail Dispensers by Dr. Drink ensure precise ingredient measurement and provide access to a vast library of classic and contemporary recipes.
Premium materials offer long-lasting durability, while the simplified cleaning process guarantees efficient maintenance after every use. Moreover, being compact and about the size of a coffee machine, the dispensers fit seamlessly into any setting without taking up much space.
The Year of the Wood Snake presents the perfect opportunity to explore and enjoy cocktails that reflect the elegance and mystery of this zodiac symbol. Whether you choose a Martini, Manhattan, or Negroni, ensure each cocktail is prepared with precision and passion to honor the refined spirit of the snake.
Cheers!
