Laughing Cavalier
I named this one after a painting by Dutch painter Frans Hals because this cocktail features one of my favorite spirits — genever. Genever is the malty ancestor of gin. This drink follows a classic Collins template. But it’s a “royale” Collins, meaning it’s topped with Champagne instead of soda. And it’s got this great interplay between the yeasty flavor of the Champagne and the maltiness of the genever.
INGREDIENTS
1½ oz. genever (oude style)
¾ oz. lime juice
½ oz. homemade lime cordial
8 mint leaves, plus mint bouquet for garnish
Champagne, to top
ABV LEVEL
Muddle mint leaves with cordial in shaker tin. Add genever, lime juice and ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds. Double strain (through Hawthorne and fine strainers) into a Collins or highball glass. Add cracked ice or small cubes. Top with Champagne (or other dry sparkling wine). Slap mint bouquet against the palm of your hand to release aroma. Place in drink with a metal straw. Serve.