Gloria
Origin and History
The Gloria cocktail has its roots in the mid-20th century, first appearing in Victor “Trader Vic” Bergeron’s 1947 Bartender’s Guide book. Trader Vic, one of the pioneers of tiki culture, was known for his tropical and exotic concoctions. However, the Gloria stands apart from his rum-based tiki drinks. It was a gin cocktail that embodied a more straightforward, refined style, balancing European influences with the emerging American cocktail culture of the time.
Though not as widely known as some of his more famous tiki drinks, the Gloria exemplified the versatility of Trader Vic’s bartending repertoire. The drink likely gained popularity due to its refreshing simplicity, offering a more citrus-driven, botanical alternative to the heavier tropical cocktails that Trader Vic was famous for.
Flavour Profile
Light, crisp, and refreshing, the Gloria combines the floral and herbal complexity of gin with bright citrus notes. It’s a balanced cocktail, with just enough sweetness to soften the gin’s sharper edges, creating a drink that’s both elegant and easy to enjoy and appeal to both Negroni and Martini lovers.
How to Serve
Chill and pour into a coupe glass. Garnish with a lemon twist or a sprig of mint to bring out the fresh citrus aromas.