What did the Rat Pack drink?

Answered by Michael Wilson

The Rat Pack, famously known for their iconic performances and wild antics, were known to enjoy a good drink or two. While their drink preferences varied, there were a few go-to beverages that were commonly associated with this legendary group of entertainers.

One of the most well-known members of the Rat Pack, Dean Martin, was often seen with a glass of J&B Rare scotch in his hand. Despite rumors suggesting that he may have faked his love for liquor, Martin was known to enjoy a good scotch, and J&B Rare was his preferred brand. This smooth and mellow blended scotch whisky was a staple for him, and he often sipped on it during performances and social gatherings.

However, it’s important to note that scotch wasn’t the only drink of choice for the Rat Pack. They were known to explore a variety of cocktails and spirits, each member having their own preferences. Frank Sinatra, for example, was a fan of Jack Daniel’s whiskey, while Sammy Davis Jr. enjoyed a good Martini.

When it comes to cocktails, the Rat Pack had a few favorites. The classic Old-Fashioned was a popular choice among them. This timeless cocktail, typically made with whiskey, sugar, water, and bitters, was often enjoyed by the group. In fact, Dean Martin’s love for scotch inspired the creation of a variation called the Scotch Old-Fashioned, which substituted scotch for the traditional whiskey.

Another cocktail that the Rat Pack enjoyed was the Martini. This elegant and sophisticated drink, made with gin and a splash of dry vermouth, was a favorite of many members. Sinatra, in particular, was known to have his own signature Martini recipe, which included three parts gin and a half-part vermouth, stirred with ice and garnished with a lemon twist.

In addition to these classic cocktails, the Rat Pack also indulged in other spirits and mixed drinks. Vodka, for example, was a popular choice for some members, including Peter Lawford. He was known to enjoy a Vodka Gimlet, a refreshing combination of vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup.

The Rat Pack had diverse tastes when it came to their drink preferences. From scotch to whiskey, martinis to old-fashioneds, they enjoyed a wide range of beverages. Their choices often reflected their personalities and added to their larger-than-life image. So, if you want to indulge in a bit of Rat Pack nostalgia, raise a glass of J&B Rare scotch or mix up a classic Old-Fashioned or Martini, and imagine yourself in the company of these legendary entertainers.