Bleu Forêt

A striking sapphire-hued cocktail that balances gentle spice, vibrant citrus, and a subtle, enticing woodsy aroma. This drink builds on a classic sour structure, with gin for a floral backbone, spiced blue curaçao for color and warmth, a hint of lapsang souchong tea for smoky woodsiness, and lemon for brightness. Serve over a single large cube to highlight its color and aroma. Ingredients: - 40 ml London dry gin - 20 ml blue curaçao (preferably a higher quality with light spice notes) - 20 ml fresh lemon juice - 10 ml simple syrup - 15 ml strong-brewed lapsang souchong tea (cooled) - 1 dash Angostura bitters Glassware: - Old Fashioned glass Garnish: - Expressed orange peel (for a citrus-woody aroma) Preparation: 1. Brew lapsang souchong tea: Steep 1 teaspoon loose tea or 1 teabag in 60 ml boiling water for 3 minutes. Strain and allow to cool. (This yields enough for 4 drinks; store chilled.) 2. In a shaker, combine gin, blue curaçao, lemon juice, simple syrup, tea, and bitters with ice. 3. Shake well until cold, then strain over a single large ice cube in an Old Fashioned glass. 4. Express an orange peel over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in as garnish. Experience: A vibrant, blue cocktail with refreshing citrus and a subtle, smoky-spiced backbone. Each sip reveals a gentle warmth and lingering, forest-like aroma.