Thursday, February 25, 2010

Creme de Violette

I love martinis! I am always in search of the perfect martini. Whenever I visit a new restaurant, the first thing I order is the ‘house signature martini.’ Whatever happened to the martini bars that appeared and suddenly disappeared shortly after Y2K? Am I the only one out here drinking martinis? Well now I’m excited again. I’ve discovered a liqueur that has actually been around for a long time, but a well-kept secret. It is Creme de Violette and it makes what just might be the martini I’ve been searching for all of my (adult) life.


The name says it all. This violet-colored liqueur, produced in Austria, is made from the Queen Charlotte and March violets found only in the Alps. In the region where it is produced, the primary customers are the cake and chocolate artisans. Back by request of bar specialists and sommeliers for classic cocktails such the Aviation and Blue Moon, this delicate liqueur is sure to spark your interest in cocktails, especially the martini, all over again. Cheers!




Creme de Violette Martini - My Way
2 ounces Grey Goose vodka
1 ounce Creme de Violette
1/2 ounce lemon juice
"Shaken, not stirred"
Finish with a splash of champagne