The Sherry Cobbler is an American cocktail that dates back to the mid-19th century, or is it?? This cocktail was immensely popular during the 1800s and is often credited with popularizing the use of ice in drinks, as well as the drinking straw.
The History of the Sherry Cobbler
We have David Wondrich to thank for finding out where the Sherry Cobbler was first mentioned. Although so many people think it’s American, it actually was from a diary of a Canadian who speak of it while in the U.S.
The Sherry Cobbler traces its origins to the early 1800s, with its first known printed mention appearing in Harry Johnson’s 1862 Bartenders’ Manual. It became widely famous in the United States and beyond, with Charles Dickens even referencing it in his 1844 novel The Life and Adventures of Martin Chuzzlewit. The novel describes a character enjoying a Sherry Cobbler so much that he drinks it down in an instant—through a straw, an innovation that astonished European readers at the time.
Still it is more likely to have been English, as it was seen in Dickens’ The Life and Adventures of Martin Chuzzlewit (1843-44). “Sherry Cobbler when you name it long; cobbler, when you name it short.’” So who knows!
By the mid-19th century, the Sherry Cobbler had become an international sensation. Its popularity was fueled by its refreshing nature, easy-to-source ingredients, and the rise of sherry as a fashionable fortified wine. Served over crushed ice and garnished with seasonal fruits, it was a true showpiece of its era, making appearances in both high-end bars and casual saloons.
Ingredients of a Classic Sherry Cobbler
The beauty of the Sherry Cobbler lies in its simplicity and adaptability. The core ingredients remain timeless:
- Sherry – A dry or medium-dry sherry, such as Amontillado or Oloroso, provides a rich, nutty base.
- Sugar – A small amount of sugar or simple syrup enhances the sherry’s natural sweetness.
- Citrus – Traditionally, orange slices add a bright, zesty character.
- Crushed ice – A hallmark of the cobbler style, crushed ice makes the drink crisp and ultra-refreshing.
- Berries and Mint (Optional) – Fresh berries or mint sprigs elevate both the aroma and presentation.
You can find all the ingredients at Whisky Exchange in the UK; or Total Wine & More in the USA!
Essential Equipment
To craft the perfect Sherry Cobbler, you’ll need a few key tools:
- Shaker or Mixing Glass – While some variations involve shaking, stirring works just as well.
- Muddler – To gently press the orange slices and sugar together.
- Lewis Bag and Mallet (or Ice Crusher) – Crushed ice is essential for the cobbler’s signature look and texture.
- Julep Strainer – If shaking, a strainer helps achieve a smooth pour.
- Tall Glass or Julep Cup – The Sherry Cobbler is traditionally served in a highball glass, but a julep cup adds a stylish twist.
- Straw – Staying true to history, the Sherry Cobbler is best enjoyed with a straw.
Here is the recipe
Sherry Cobbler
Ingredients
- 3 ounces Sherry
- ½ ounce sugar syrup
- Fresh fruit for garnish (orange slices, berries, and mint sprigs)
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with crushed ice.
- Add the sherry and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with an assortment of fresh fruit.