Updated on: 6/3/2025
The Pegu Club Cocktail: A Historic Sip into Audrey Saunders’ Signature Style
When it comes to cocktails that have stood the test of time, the Pegu Club cocktail is one of those hidden gems that brings a smile to any seasoned mixologist's face. Picture this: it’s the early 20th century, and the British expatriates are gathered in the elite Pegu Club in Burma, sipping on a zesty concoction that would eventually make waves across the globe. Fast forward to the early 2000s, and New York City's cocktail scene is watching the revival of this classic, all thanks to the innovative Audrey Saunders. But what makes the Pegu Club cocktail such an enduring icon? Let’s dive into its storied past.
A Classic Origin with Exotic Beginnings
The Pegu Club cocktail was born in the prestigious Pegu Club, a social enclave for British officers in Rangoon (now Yangon), Burma. It's believed that the drink was crafted sometime before World War I, making its way into the cocktail canon with a blend of gin, orange liqueur, lime juice, and bitters. The mix was so refreshing and distinct that it quickly became the club's signature drink, referenced in Harry Craddock’s 1930 “Savoy Cocktail Book.” But how did this classic stir the modern cocktail culture, you ask?
Audrey Saunders: Breathing New Life into a Timeless Favorite
Enter Audrey Saunders—a pivotal figure in modern mixology and owner of New York City's Pegu Club, which was instrumental in the cocktail renaissance. In 2005, when Saunders opened her bar, she paid homage to the vintage drink, placing it center stage among the modern cocktail offerings. She often remarked how the Pegu Club cocktail embodied the art of crafting balanced, nuanced cocktails—something she aimed to instill in her own bartending team. Her dedication to classic mixology with a twist revived interest in the Pegu Club cocktail, leading a new generation to rediscover this historic sip.
Modern Takes & Variations
While traditionalists might argue that the classic recipe needs no tampering, contemporary mixologists have embraced variations of the Pegu Club cocktail. Some replace the orange liqueur with a nuanced blend of curacao or augment with fresh exotic bitters to elevate its citrus notes. This pliability within the basic ingredients showcases the cocktail’s adaptability and enduring appeal—an ideal template for creativity in today’s cocktail culture.
Mastering the Pegu Club Cocktail at Home
Curious to bring this historic beverage into your repertoire? Here’s the classic recipe:
- 45 ml gin
- 15 ml orange liqueur (such as Cointreau)
- 15 ml fresh lime juice
- 1 dash Angostura bitters
- 1 dash orange bitters
Preparation:
- Combine all ingredients in a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a twist of lime or an orange peel for added zest.
A Toast to Enduring Elegance
The Pegu Club cocktail is more than just a drink; it’s a testament to the timeless artistry of mixology and the enduring spirit of innovation found in bars around the world. It invites us all to relish a slice of history while adding our own twist to its legacy. So next time you’re considering a cocktail to impress your guests or to savor alone by a fireplace, why not let the Pegu Club's charm sweep you off your feet?
Raise a glass and toast to the eloquent meeting of classic and contemporary. Cheers to the Pegu Club cocktail!