5 Cocktails Immortalised by Mad Men

It’s already been about three years since the highly-acclaimed series, Mad Men, went off the air – and we’re sure many of you TV fanatics miss Don Draper and his cocktail-loving crew just as much as we do. From impeccable writing to unforgettable performances, this show will definitely be remembered in the future as one of the greats. Let our team at Hugo’s Group take you down memory lane as we revisit 5 drinks that defined the Mad Men era.

The Old-Fashioned

As masculine and dapper as the protagonist himself, this potent whisky cocktail was hands down Don Draper’s favourite beverage. Who could forget the episode in season 3 when he literally jumped over an empty bar to mix one up for his client, Conrad Hilton?
The Manhattan

Featured in multiple, ahem, “work meeting” scenes, the Manhattan made frequent appearances over the course of the series.  It even featured in the episode “The Suitcase” – arguably the show’s best episode ever; Draper and his protegee, Peggy Olson, both share some drinks as they vent about breakups and the pitfalls of romance – she a Manhattan, he an Old Fashioned (of course).

The Vodka Martini

Meeting an important client? Close that deal with a Martini cocktail – or five. At least, that’s what Roger Sterling would advise. Mad Men was set during a time when vodka had reached its peak of popularity, when Americans were just starting to embrace the Russian liquor.

Tom Collins

Hard day at work? Kids driving you crazy? A glass of Tom Collins is just what the doctor – a.k.a Don Draper – ordered. Parenting tip: teach your young daughter how to make one, just as Don Draper did to Sally on one occasion. That way, when you’re hosting fancy dinners for your neighbours, you can ask her to help take care of the catering and mix up some cocktails (yes, this actually did happen on the show. And just to be clear, we’re not actually advocating turning your children into bartenders).

The Mai Tai

One of the very first notable cocktails to feature on the show, the character Rachel Menken can be seen ordering a Mai Tai during an episode on Season One. According to cocktail consultants, this drink symbolises a desire to escape from everyday, mundane life – similar to Draper’s flimsy idea of running away to California and beginning a new life with Menken.

Our staff at Hugo’s Group invite you over to Hugo’s Terrace to get your drink on. Pair your chosen cocktail with your favourite Mad Men character, and chat with your fellow “Maddicts” about how much you miss the show and what Peggy Olson got up to after it ended. Don’t forget to check our food menu while you’re here – share one of our delicious platters and while away the evening in style!

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