We use the Amelia to transition the Cosmo drinkers into our dangerous world of subtle flavors. We chose vodka as the base spirit to showcase St-Germain without muddying its flavor. The Amelia is named in honor of an older Greek woman who gave Jason food and lodging when he ran out of money while traveling through Greece.

　　

Ingredients

makes 1 drink

　　1 3/4 ounces Luksusowa potato vodka

　　1 ounce St-Germain elderflower liqueur

　　3/4 ounce Boiron blackberry purée (or make your own; see below)

　　3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice

　　1 mint sprig, for garnish

　　

Blackberry Puree

1/4 pound fresh or frozen, thawed blackberries (about 1 cup)

　　2 tablespoons superfine sugar

　　2 tablespoons water

　　2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

　　(makes about 1 cup)

　　

Step 1

Pour the vodka, liqueur, purée, and juice into a mixing glass. Add large cold ice cubes and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Place the mint sprig in the palm of your hand and smack it with your other hand to release the aroma. Gently place the mint on the surface of the cocktail and serve.

　　

Blackberry Puree

Step 2

Combine all ingredients in a blender. Liquefy and strain through a coarse sieve. Refrigerate until use. Will keep for 3 to 4 days, refrigerated.

　　

tasting notes

Step 3

Dominant Flavors: blackberries with mint on the nose

　　

Step 4

Body: full-textured from the blackberries

　　

Step 5

Dryness: medium to dry

　　

Step 6

Complexity: medium complexity between blackberries and elderflower

　　

Step 7

Accentuating or Contrasting Flavors: contrasting elderflower with aroma of fresh mint

　　

Step 8

Finish: short, dry with citrus overtones

　　

Step 9

Glass: cocktail

　　Reprinted with permission from Speakeasy: The Employees Only Guide to Classic Cocktails Reimagined by Jason Kosmas and Dushan Zaric, © 2010 Ten Speed Press. Buy the full book from Amazon or Bookshop.