Cocktail Class: Paris in April

If this time of year has you dreaming of packing a bag and heading for Paris, consider this refreshing vodka highball.

It comes from “Paris Cocktails” by Doni Belau and offers a bouquet of floral and herbal notes from St-Germain and yellow Chartreuse.

Bartender Cody Winfrey of Casper Fry makes it with Reyka vodka.

“It’s just a good drink,” he said – approachable, balanced, sweet but not too sweet, reminiscent of a walk through the Luxembourg gardens or along Canal St. Martin.

Of course, lyrics from the classic song, “April in Paris,” come to mind, too.

“I never knew the charm of spring

I never met it face to face

I never knew my heart could sing

Never missed a warm embrace

Till April in Paris.”

Paris in April

From “Paris Cocktails” by Doni Belau

1 1/2 ounces Reyka vodka

1/2 ounce yellow Chartreuse

1/2 ounce St-Germain

1/2 ounce lemon juice

1/4 ounce orgeat

Soda water, for topping

Orange peel, for garnish

Mint leaves, for garnish

Shake all ingredients through orgeat with ice. Double strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice. Top off with soda water. Garnish with orange peel rolled up into a rosebud shape with mint leaves.