April Cocktail: The Violet Vesper

Any cocktail featuring Vesper in the name stokes memories of a certain double-ought spy extemporaneously commanding an unwitting bartender to shake together gin, vodka, and Quina Lillet.

This is not that drink.

What it is, is a love child born from the original Vesper and the Aviation. The Aviation is a concoction of gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and Crème de Violette. Crème de Violette is a lovely, sweet liqueur infused with the essence of violettes which bring the lush scent and subtle taste of violets. For our cocktail, we are enhancing the violet hues by using Emperess 1908 Indigo Gin. Emperess is a straightforward London Dry style gin that is elevated by the infusion of butterfly pea flowers, which impart a vibrant violet hue.

From the Vesper, we take (other than the name) the one-two punch of both gin and vodka. For our vodka, we extend our garden with Belvedere Blackberry & Lemongrass Infused Vodka. Shaken (yes, shaken!) together, you have a drink with the aromas and flavors of spring with the one-two punch of the Gin and Vodka combo.

Be sure you are done with your tasks for the day…

The Violet Vesper

2 oz Emperess Gin

½ oz Belvedere Blackberry and Lemongrass infused Vodka

½ oz Crème de Violette

¼ oz Maraschino liqeuer

¾ oz fresh lemon juice

Pour all ingredients into a mixing glass filled with fresh ice. Stir vigorously and strain into a cocktail glass

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Cocktail by Terry Cermak, Spirit Specialist and writer-at-large @ Rollers Wine & Spirits