When I was planning the next drink in the series, the French Martini seemed like an easy and logical choice. After all, we are still using the same two alcohols we've already been working with and then adding pineapple juice. And considering we are still counting down through our 14 days of Love, a French Martini sounds like one of the most romantic, sexy drinks you could shake up! I thought it would be fun to explore the history of this libation a bit.
It was not.
Turns out no one can really quite agree on when this cocktail name first surfaced (before prohibition? The 1980s?), who created it (Chambord? The Balthazar?), or even what exactly is in it. It made me pause for a moment and wonder if I even wanted to tackle this particular recipe. Spoiler alert: I do.
Let's be honest: for me, cocktails are all about fun. Take some alcohol and add some ice and some juices and you are ready to celebrate, relax, party, or kick back and watch a movie. All that matters is that it tastes good to you. So with all that in mind....
I am happy to present to you what I consider the quintessential French Martini. You will need:
Ice cubes
1.5 oz vodka
.5 oz Chambord
1 oz pineapple juice
You will also need some bar equipment:
a cocktail shaker
a shot glass with actual .5 oz markings
a martini glass
Constructing this couldn't be easier. Fill your shaker with ice. Add the vodka, Chambord, and pineapple juice and shake until your shaker is frosty. Pro tip: I like to wrap a towel around the shaker as I handle it. It helps keep my hands from getting cold and wet and makes me feel like a 1920s speak easy bartender (arm garter optional). Once it is well shaken, simply strain into a martini glass and sip sip sip while you dream of the Eiffel tower.
Cheers! Salud! Prost! Slainte! Soupy twist!