Introduction
The European Union cocktail is a sophisticated twist on the classic Martinez, offering a harmonious blend of flavors that will delight any cocktail enthusiast. This drink elegantly combines the botanicals of Old Tom gin with the rich apple notes of calvados, resulting in a smooth and balanced cocktail. Perfect for those who appreciate a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the palate, the European Union is a testament to the art of mixology.
The history of the European Union cocktail is a nod to the evolving nature of cocktail recipes. While the Martinez itself is a precursor to the Martini, the addition of calvados in this variation brings a unique European flair. This cocktail is a celebration of the old and the new, merging traditional spirits with innovative twists to create a drink that's both familiar and fresh.
Did you know that Old Tom gin, used in this cocktail, dates back to the 18th century? It was once the go-to gin style before the advent of London Dry. Its slightly sweeter profile makes it the perfect base for the European Union, balancing beautifully with the other ingredients.
Ingredients
To create the European Union cocktail, you'll need the following ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavors:
- 1.5 oz Old Tom Gin: Old Tom gin brings a touch of sweetness and complexity, making it ideal for this cocktail.
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth: Sweet vermouth adds depth and a hint of herbal notes, complementing the gin and calvados.
- 0.5 oz VSOP Calvados: VSOP Calvados provides a smooth, apple-infused richness that softens the cocktail's profile.
- 1 tsp Strega: Strega, with its herbal and spice notes, adds a subtle layer of complexity.
- 1 dash Bitter Truth Aromatic Bitters: Aromatic bitters enhance the overall flavor, bringing everything together with a dash of spice.
Instructions
Crafting the European Union cocktail is an art of balance and precision. Follow these steps to achieve bar-quality results at home:
- Stir all the ingredients over ice.
- Strain into a coupe.
Tips
- Chill your coupe glass in the freezer beforehand to ensure your cocktail stays cold longer.
- Use a quality mixing glass to properly combine and chill the ingredients without diluting them too much.
- Experiment with different brands of calvados to find the one that best suits your taste preferences.
- For a more pronounced herbal note, slightly increase the amount of Strega.
Conclusion
The European Union cocktail is a delightful blend of tradition and innovation, capturing the essence of classic cocktails while introducing new flavors. Its balanced profile makes it a versatile choice for any occasion, whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home.
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European Union recipe adapted from Death & Co: Modern Classic Cocktails by David Kaplan, Nick Fauchald, and Alex Day.
