As the age-old English proverb so aptly puts it, “March winds and April showers bring forth May flowers.” With spring gracing us with its warm sun, blossoms, and myriad pleasures, despite lingering traces of winter’s grip, I thought it the perfect time to embark on a delightful mini-series of spring cocktails. Our journey begins with the refreshingly elegant April Shower.
It’s worth noting that April Shower boasts a name shared by a plethora of cocktails, each with its unique character. However, I’ve selected a particular rendition from Difford’s Guide that captures the essence of a gentle, aromatic, moderately dry libation, akin to a splendid April day.
At the heart of this delightful concoction lies Benedictine, a French liqueur crafted from brandy and infused with a blend of 56 herbs and spices. The tale of Benedictine deserves its own narrative, which I intend to share soon, given its fascinating history and complexity, it bestows a rich herbal aroma upon our cocktail, elevating its character to new heights.
For those with an adventurous spirit, I invite you to explore a variant of this cocktail that substitutes Benedictine with Yellow Chartreuse, another French herbal liqueur, whose captivating story you can delve into here. It’s a delightful twist well worth experiencing.
Ingredients:
-1 1/2 oz/ 45 ml Cognac
-1/2 oz/ 15 ml Benedictine
-1 oz/ 30 мл fresh orange juice
Process:
Pour all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker over ice and shake. Strain into the chilled cocktail glass and enjoy.
Drinkware:
Cocktail glass
