It’s unknown exactly why the Attention (or the “Atty” as it’s sometimes called) is also referred to as the Arsenic and Old Lace. The Attention first appeared in Hugo Ensslin’s Recipes for Mixed Drinks in 1917. It then reappeared under an abridged moniker, the Atty, in the 1930 Savoy Cocktail Book. In the latter rendition, author and bartender Harry Craddock edited the drink to proportions more accessible for a modern palate, essentially creating a fancier Martini.
Attention
Adapted from The Savoy Cocktail Book by Harry Craddock
Ingredients
Serving: 1
- 2 ounces gin
- 1 ounce dry vermouth
- 1 bar spoon crème de violette
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- 1/4 ounce absinthe
Garnish: lemon peel
Directions
- Add absinthe to a chilled cocktail or coupe glass. Swirl to rinse and discard.
- Add remaining ingredients to a mixing glass.
- Add ice and stir until chilled.
- Strain into prepared glass and garnish with a lemon peel.