Made from handpicked elderflowers native to France, St-Germain makes an elegant addition to feasts and fêtes both formal and relaxed. Its subtle flavor allows it to pair easily with complementary spirits. A classic celebratory pairing combines St-Germain with champagne, but bartenders in Los Angeles are using it with more than just bubbly. Vodka, gin, rye, rum, tequila and bourbon all play well with St-Germain. See Eater's map of where to find St-Germain in and out of the bottle. À votre santé!
Despite the fact that Copa d'Oro lives on a stretch of Broadway in Santa Monica that is better known for tourists than foodists, owner and head barman Vincenzo Marianella's talents and approach to cocktails have kept his golden cup fresh. Marianella's goal is to involve his guests in the process of making their own cocktail. He was arguably the first bartender in town to lay out the basic ingredients (spirits, liqueurs, bitters, herbs, fresh produce) and create bespoke cocktails based on patrons' preferences and palates. To honor St-Germain, Marianella is offering the spirit alone or with a partner potion, blended with farmer's market products. There are a few signature drinks on the menu that feature St-Germain: Smoke of Scotland with whiskey; King de Bahia with cachaça; and Campanula Sour with grapefruit vodka. Standing out among these cocktails is Marianella's punch aptly named the Jalisco Flower. Easy to make at home for groups big or small, this punch is a simple example of St-Germain's versatility.
(adapted from Copa d'Oro)
2 parts ruby grapefruit juice
1.25 part St-Germain
1 part reposado tequila (best quality)
4 parts prosecco
Stir together in vessel of your choice. Serve on ice.
