I am going to France for my birthday (June 4th) with a very dear friend. We are spending two nights in Versailles, two nights in Paris, and then we fly home. It’s a quick trip, I know. In the mean time I need to prepare. I want immerse myself in all things French, so that I somewhat fit in. First, I’ve got to trade in my yoga pants for something black, and sleek, right? I also need to find a sweet, little dress that twirls well (preferably black). No, I’m not going to wear a beret– that would just be silly (unless it looks super cute on me). I’ve taken up smoking (just kidding, mom). I’ve downloaded the Babbel app on my phone, and have been practicing the language everyday (Salut! Ca va? Ca va.). I’ve been compiling a list of patisseries, and brasseries I’d like to hit up. I’m currently growing a pencil mustache (not really, but sadly I could quite easily). And I’ve been drinking French martinis. Lots of them. I think I’ve got this whole French thing down.
The French Martini is not exactly French. It was created at Kieth McNally’s restaurant Pravda back in 1996. This drink is composed of vodka, pineapple juice, and Chambord (a raspberry liqueur from France). It’s also the drink that ushered in the flavored martini craze of the late ’90s. What I love about the French Martini is that it’s not too sweet. I find that the vodka is really showcased here while the pineapple juice and Chambord offer hints of sweetness.
One thing to keep in mind when making yourself a French Martini is to vigorously shake your cocktail shaker for about 30 seconds. This helps to create a layer of foam (thanks to the pineapple juice) at the top of the glass. No need to garnish this natural beauty.
Vive la France! Cheers!
The French Martini
A delicious and light vodka drink sweetened with pineapple juice and a splash of Chambord
Ingredients
- 3 oz. Vodka
- 2 oz. Pineapple Juice
- 1 oz. Chambord
- 1 Lemon Twist
Instructions
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Fill a cocktail shaker 3/4 the way up with ice.
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Pour in the vodka, pineapple juice, and Chambord.
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Shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
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Strain into a chilled martini glass.
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Bend the lemon twist to extract the oil. Be sure not to break it. Rub the lemon twist along the rim of the glass, and down the sides.
