According to cocktail historians, this cocktail first appeared in print in 1895 in Modern American Drinks by George J. Kappeler. Although this drink has fallen into obscurity today, it appeared in every respectable cocktail book printed in the early twentieth century, with the same easy recipe. It seems this drink always had the favor of knowledgeable bartenders and connoisseurs, as its unique blend of flavors could be very challenging to the untrained palate of the casual drinker. In other words, this drink is best recommended for people who have moved beyond simple straightforward flavors and are looking for a carnival in the mouth. The Widow’s Kiss is a seasonal experience best enjoyed when it is cold outside. This classic cocktail is also one of the few cocktails we recommend as a digestive or an after-dinner cocktail.

　　

Ingredients

makes 1 drink

　　1 1/2 ounces Daron Fine calvados

　　1 1/4 ounces Yellow Chartreuse

　　1 1/4 ounces Benedictine

　　1 dash Angostura bitters

　　1 lemon twist, for garnish

　　

Step 1

Pour the calvados, Chartreuse, Benedictine, and bitters into a mixing glass. Add large cold ice cubes and stir for 40 revolutions. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with the lemon twist.

　　

tasting notes

Step 2

Dominant Flavors: sweet herbal bouquet

　　

Step 3

Body: high alcohol with heavy syrupy mouthfeel

　　

Step 4

Dryness: off-dry to sweet

　　

Step 5

Complexity: high, forceful

　　

Step 6

Accentuating or Contrasting Flavors: big herb bomb

　　

Step 7

Finish: long, honey with citrus oil overtones

　　

Step 8

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.