BY GWEN KENNEALLY
I was at a party last week when someone mentioned that they had just read about fabulous new liquor made from violets. I had to take a look and see what I could find. It appears that there is a revival in floral flavors and old pre-Prohibition classics cocktails. Fifty years ago there were many of these “old lady” types of drinks and then they seemed to disappear as the popularity of fruity drinks like the Mai Tai and Harvey Wallbanger became all the rage.
Now, 30 years after Crème Yvette was suddenly pulled from the shelves, it has made a comeback. I think that we have a new/ old treasure to play with. I was a bit challenged to find it online and learned that one of the first places that will get it (and they will ship it to you) is a website called www.drinkupny.com. If you contact them they will put you on a list to be the first to get it when it comes in.
Otherwise it is a delightful hunt at your local mom and pop liquor store. The fresh berries, vanilla, spices, and violet petals give this a real floral lavender flavor that is well worth spending some time with. An old/new way to celebrate spring flowers and relax with those you loves.
Everything old is new again.
Spring Moon
4 ounces Tanqueray gin
1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 ounce Crème Yvette
Fill two mixing glasses two-thirds full with ice. Add the gin, lemon juice and crème de violette. Shake vigorously and strain into two chilled martini glasses. You can find lavender colored sugar and rim the glasses if you like. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a lavender bud.
About Karen Young
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