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!
Justin Pike, of The Tasting Kitchen in Venice, has been using St-Germain in his cocktails since the restaurant opened. For his award-winning Su Novia cocktail, Justin was inspired by the classic Moscow Mule. Built in a low-ball glass, he layers vodka, St-Germain, house-made ginger syrup, lime juice, and soda. Of the cucumber garnish, Pike notes, "It's the rare garnish that adds additional flavor as the drink sits." As the cocktail settles, the cucumber slices bring out the complex qualities of St-Germain, keeping it fresh and lively for the life of the drink.
SU NOVIA
Build in a low-ball glass, filled with ice (can also be made in larger batches)
2 oz vodka
1/2 oz St-Germain
1/2 oz ginger syrup (recipe follows)
1/2 oz lime juice
2 oz club soda
2 slices cucumber
Ginger Syrup
Peel and dice 1 cup ginger, combine in blender with 1/2 cup simple syrup. Blend, strain.
