The name of a cocktail can transport a certain flair but also might give a foretaste of the actual aroma the drink will finally offer. Of course not every cocktail has all these information in its name, but at least the name should trigger some curiosity and interest. This can also be achieved by a very simple name, such as today’s Tulip Cocktail does. So, how does actually a liquid tulip taste like?

The Tulip Cocktail is a true classic from the 1930 Savoy Cocktail Book by Harry Craddock. It relies on a very interesting mix of Calvados, red vermouth, apricot liqueur and lemon juice. The combination of these ingredients is very interesting, with fresh, fruity, yes in fact intense “flowery” notes with multiple layers of taste which definitely make this cocktail a real insider tip among Craddocks recipes.

The preparation is relatively simple and thus there is little reason why you should not enjoy a Tulip cocktail in between.

Recipe:

3 cl Calvados
3 cl red vermouth
1.5 cl apricot brandy
1 cl lemon

Preparation: Shake all ingredients in a shaker vigorously on ice and double-strain into your chilled glass. Release the oil of the orange zest (see below) on top of your drink before serving.

Glass: Martini

Garnish: orange zest

Buying sources: Good Calvados and good red vermouth (eg Carpano Antica Formula) can be found in specialist shops. Alternatively you can simply order your ingredients online or visit a really well-stocked supermarket close to you.