Introduction
The Suissesse cocktail is a delightful blend that brings together the unique flavors of absinthe, aquavit, and crème de cacao, resulting in a creamy, indulgent drink that's perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Its origin is somewhat shrouded in mystery, but what we do know is that it has a loyal following among those who appreciate the nuanced depth of absinthe cocktails.
Absinthe, often referred to as the 'Green Fairy,' has a storied past, infamous for its association with bohemian culture and artists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Suissesse, though less well-known than its absinthe-based cousin, the Sazerac, offers a smoother, creamier experience thanks to the addition of egg white and crème de cacao.
One interesting tidbit about the Suissesse is that it is sometimes enjoyed as a breakfast cocktail in New Orleans, particularly during the festive Mardi Gras season. Its rich, velvety texture and aromatic garnish make it a decadent treat that's sure to impress.
Ingredients
To create a Suissesse cocktail that captures the essence of indulgence, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 oz Chilled Water: Ensure your water is chilled to maintain the cocktail's refreshing quality.
- 0.5 Large Egg White: Egg white adds a silky texture; use fresh eggs for best results.
- 2 dashes Bitters: Choose aromatic bitters to complement the cocktail's flavors.
- 0.5 oz Aquavit: Aquavit brings a hint of spice and complexity.
- 0.5 oz Crème de Cacao: Crème de cacao adds a touch of sweetness and creamy chocolate notes.
- 1.5 oz Absinthe: Absinthe is the star of the show, providing its signature anise flavor.
- 1 Fresh Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg enhances the aroma and adds warmth.
- 1 Lemon Peel: A twist of lemon peel brightens the drink with its citrus oils.
Instructions
Crafting a Suissesse is a straightforward process that results in a luxurious cocktail. Follow these steps to achieve perfection:
- Add all ingredients except garnishes to a shaker.
- Fill with ice and shake.
- Strain into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg and twist lemon peel over the glass to express oils, then discard.
Tips
- Shake vigorously to ensure the egg white is fully emulsified, creating a creamy texture.
- Chill your glassware in the freezer before straining the cocktail to keep it cold longer.
- Experiment with different brands of absinthe to discover subtle flavor variations.
- For a sweeter variation, increase the amount of crème de cacao slightly.
Conclusion
The Suissesse is a cocktail that stands out with its creamy texture and rich flavors, making it a luxurious choice for absinthe enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike. Its combination of absinthe, aquavit, and crème de cacao creates a complex yet harmonious blend that is both intriguing and satisfying.
Why not elevate your cocktail repertoire by trying your hand at the Suissesse? With the BarBot app, you can explore more unique recipes, log your tasting experiences, and even share your creations with a community of cocktail aficionados. Download the app today and embark on a flavorful journey, one cocktail at a time. Cheers to discovering new favorites!
Suissesse recipe adapted from The Dead Rabbit Drinks Manual by Sean Muldoon and Jack McGarry.
