This article from the New York Times appears to have two titles: “Sixties accuracy in every sip” and “When cocktails were office supplies.” I personally prefer the latter, but I’d have read an article titled “You’re a big stupid loser” if it meant I could get another serving of my preferred poison, Mad Men.
I first came across this series before it was even on the air — I was flipping channels and AMC was broadcasting a promo interview with the series’ creator Matthew Weiner, who was talking about the extreme measures the production crew goes to to ensure accuracy in the show’s design and presentation. This wasn’t long after I’d seen Good Bye Lenin!, so I was curious about whether or not they could actually pull it off.
If you’ve ever seen the show, you know that they do — especially when it comes to workplace libations. But you don’t have to take my word for it. Legendary bar chef Dale DeGroff — who is not only a renowned cocktail expert but also a former advertising agency staffer — agrees.
Check out the full article to find out how the show’s prop masters choose glassware, create historically accurate bottle labels and mix visually accurate drinks (non-alcoholic, of course). And if you prefer a taste of the real thing, you can’t go wrong with the show’s cocktail guide. Just make sure to ask before you help yourself to the Stoli.
