Vieux Mot

It’s simple. Pour two beautiful spirits together with a splash of fresh lemon and sweeten with a swirl of simple syrup. Shake with ice until frosty and cold and you’ve just created a ridiculously delightful cocktail that makes for easy holiday entertaining!

Vieux Mot, translation – old word – meaning, an old, witty saying. This time of year there are a lot of “old words” spoken for sure! This simple cocktail takes an old spirit plus a newer, exquisite liqueur and blends them together beautifully.

Start with a classic spirit, Plymouth Gin, still my favorite in the world of gin. Gin is ideal for this festive season with notes of juniper, coriander, cardamom and citrus. The gin is paired with a delectable French liqueur, St~Germain, made from elderflowers that leave subtle hints of pear, peach and grapefruit. The cocktail is finished with a wisp of brightness from fresh lemon and a touch of sweetness compliments of a Southern staple, simple syrup.

Pour everything in a cocktail shaker, add ice and give it a good shake.

It’s easy and deliciously different. And since it’s the holidays, garnish with a cranberry or two!

Vieux Mot

6 tablespoons good gin, such as Plymouth

2 tablespoons St~Germain liqueur

1 tablespoon simple syrup*

1-½ tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Ice for shaking

Fresh cranberries or raspberries for garnish, optional

Pour the gin into a cocktail shaker.

Add the St~Germain liqueur along with the simple syrup and the lemon juice.

Fill the cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously until mixed and very cold.

Strain the mixed drink into two coupes.

Garnish with a skewer of fresh cranberries or raspberries. Makes two cocktails.

*To make simple syrup, add two cups of sugar to 1 cup of water into a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved, about 10 minutes. Store in the refrigerator.