Active Time

　　5 minutes

　　Total Time

　　25 hours 5 minutes, including chilling time

　　To me, there’s nothing more elegant than sipping on a martini. I’ve opted for a 50-50 style for this make-ahead cocktail, with an even split of botanical gin and vanilla-and citrus-scented Lillet Blanc. A touch of pear eau de vie and green cardamom add unexpected twists. Also, a quick note on the fridge-to-freezer method—not only will this guarantee an ice-cold cocktail, the extra hour in the freezer will result in a luscious, silky texture, making the whole experience that much more luxurious.

　　For an extra festive touch, you can top each glass with a splash of sparkling wine. Check out this collection for more big-batch cocktails →

　　

Ingredients

Makes 6

　　1 green cardamom pod

　　9 oz. gin

　　9 oz. Lillet Blanc

　　4½ oz. filtered water

　　1 oz. unaged pear brandy (such as Clear Creek)

　　Lemon twists (for serving)

　　

Step 1

In a quart-size jar, muddle 1 green cardamom pod to break it up. Add 9 oz. gin, 9 oz. Lillet Blanc, 4½ oz. filtered water, and 1 oz. unaged pear brandy (such as Clear Creek). Refrigerate for 24 hours. 

　　

Step 2

Strain off cardamom pod using a fine-mesh strainer. Pour mixture back into jar and return to refrigerator until 1 hour before serving. 

　　

Step 3

One hour before serving, move jar to freezer to chill. When ready to serve, pour into Nick and Nora or martini glasses and garnish with lemon twists.

　　Do ahead: Cocktail will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.