Introduction
The European Union cocktail is a delightful variation of the classic Martinez, bringing a touch of European elegance to your glass. This sophisticated blend combines the sweetness of Old Tom gin with the rich, apple notes of calvados, offering a nuanced and refined flavor profile. Perfect for those who appreciate a complex and balanced drink, the European Union is an excellent choice for cocktail enthusiasts looking to explore new territory.
Originating from the Martinez, which is often considered a precursor to the modern Martini, the European Union adds a unique twist by incorporating calvados—a French apple brandy that lends depth and character to the cocktail. The inclusion of Strega, an Italian herbal liqueur, further enhances its European flair, creating a drink that is both intriguing and satisfying.
Fun fact: The Martinez has a storied history, with its roots tracing back to the mid-1800s. It was originally crafted with Old Tom gin, which is sweeter than London Dry gin, making it the perfect base for this European-inspired variation. The European Union cocktail continues this tradition, celebrating the rich heritage of gin-based cocktails while introducing a contemporary twist.
Ingredients
To craft the European Union cocktail, you'll need a selection of quality ingredients that harmonize beautifully. Here's what you'll need:
- 1.5 oz Old Tom Gin: Old Tom gin provides a sweeter, richer base that complements the other ingredients.
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth: Sweet vermouth adds complexity and a touch of sweetness to balance the drink.
- 0.5 oz VSOP Calvados: Calvados brings a hint of apple and a smooth finish, enhancing the cocktail's depth.
- 1 tsp Strega: Strega offers herbal notes that add layers of flavor to the mix.
- 1 dash Bitter Truth Aromatic Bitters: Aromatic bitters provide a subtle spice and aroma, rounding out the drink.
Instructions
Creating the European Union cocktail is an exercise in balance and precision. Follow these steps to achieve cocktail perfection:
- Stir all the ingredients over ice.
- Strain into a coupe.
Tips
- Chill your coupe glass in advance to keep your cocktail at the perfect temperature.
- Use a mixing glass for stirring to ensure a smooth, well-integrated drink.
- Experiment with different ratios of vermouth and calvados to find your preferred balance.
- Taste your cocktail before serving, adjusting bitters or sweetness to suit your palate.
Conclusion
The European Union cocktail is a testament to the art of mixology, blending traditional elements with modern twists to create a drink that's both classic and innovative. Its sophisticated flavor profile makes it a fantastic choice for those who appreciate complexity in their cocktails.
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European Union recipe adapted from Death & Co: Modern Classic Cocktails by David Kaplan, Nick Fauchald, and Alex Day.
