seeclairmix

The Trader Vic's 1972 edition mentions that it's become popular since its last printing, but urges readers to use the fresh stuff instead of pre-mixes.

Right?! That's how it got me too. I found the context of that ad, and have one for a bottled Sazerac from 1901. I have a couple calls into companies about developing sour mix, but am waiting to hear back. Ooo, the MoTAC might be a good place to ask. Thanks!

Hey Craig, Thanks so much! I've actually found Holland House cocktail mix ads dating back to the 40s. It's a slightly different product than sour mix, as it's meant for consumer rather than bar use, but I have a hunch that the two are more connected.

HA! Possibly. That may actually be something to look into...

By what I could find in searching ads, it would appear that the powdered sour mix came about in the 60s or 70s, but I haven't been able to find a lot of ads for it because it was marketed directly to bars rather than to consumers. That's one of the things I'm trying to track down.

Thanks, Sylvia!

Does anyone have any information on how sour mix rose to power? From various sources, I've found out that its rise started right after Prohibition, but that it really gained steam somewhere between the 1949 and 1972 editions of Trader Vic's Bartender's Guide. Most of what's on Google either (justifiably) decries sour mix or gives ways to make your own from fresh ingredients, but I want to dig down into the acid green, commercially available stuff. Any help is appreciated. Thanks!

I'm a food and drinks writer located in Birmingham, AL. In researching a couple strange topics, a friend suggested I post my questions in eGullet. Please let me know if y'all have any questions for me!