Jumpin’ Genepy Cocktail
I’m always on the lookout for a cocktail that has an herbaceous quality, a touch of bitterness, and some fruity undertones courtesy of a dose of Cap Corse or Lillet, two French apéritifs that feature citrus flavors. And this Jumpin’ Genepy cocktail fits that bill.
The secret of this lovely coupe is a spoonful of genepy, an herb that grows high in the French alps. A similar plant is sold at the markets in Paris, which is used to make tisane, an herbal infusion. The yellow flowers of the plant also make a somewhat forceful liqueur, which is enjoyed during a day of skiing, said to help keep you en forme on the slopes – and revive you after. If you don’t have it, you can use another herbal liqueur in this expressive cocktail. I’ve made a few suggestions for what you can use if it’s not available in the headnote to the recipe below. Cheers!
Jumpin' Genepy Cocktail
- 1 1/2 ounces gin
- 1 ounce Cap Corse or Lillet blanc, (white)
- 1/2 ounce Suze, or another gentian liqueur, such as Salers or Avèze
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon genepy liqueur, (see headnote)
- grapefruit or lemon twist, for garnish
- Add the gin, Cap Corse or Lillet, Suze, and genepy liqueur to a cocktail mixing glass. Fill two-thirds with ice and stir until well-chilled, 15 to 20 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with grapefruit or orange twist.
