Bon Appétit, a libation that lives up to its name, promises a prelude of delightful dryness before a satisfying dinner. Hailing from the pages of William Schmidt’s esteemed work “The Flowing Bowl” (1892), this cocktail carries with it a captivating history of wine, vermouth, and sherry—crafted to perfection. Schmidt, alongside Jerry Thomas and Harry Johnson, played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of modern mixology. In this recipe, we invite you to experience the essence of Bon Appétit—a fusion of dry vermouth, fino sherry, absinthe, Angostura bitters, and a hint of sugar syrup. Together, these ingredients compose a symphony of flavors that foreshadow an exceptional dining experience. Join us as we raise our glasses to the pioneers of mixology and embark on a journey to explore the artistry of Bon Appétit.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 1/2 fl oz/45 ml dry vermouth
- 3 tsp fino sherry
- Dash of absinthe
- Dash of Angostura bitters
- 2 dashes of sugar syrup (see page 288)
- Ice cubes
PREPARATIONS:
- In a mixing glass, stir dry vermouth, fino sherry, absinthe, Angostura bitters, and sugar syrup together with ice until well combined.
- Strain the cocktail into a wine goblet over fresh ice, allowing its intriguing flavors to shine.
- Embrace the refreshing sensation of Bon Appétit—a delightful prologue to the culinary delights that await.
YIELD:
One captivating and palate-teasing Bon Appétit cocktail.
SERVING:
Serve the cocktail in a wine goblet, celebrating its classic and timeless presentation.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Stirring the cocktail with ice ensures proper dilution and harmony of flavors.
- Straining the cocktail over fresh ice maintains its invigorating chill.
TIPS:
- Experiment with different vermouth and sherry variations to explore nuanced taste profiles.
- Adjust the sugar syrup quantity based on your preferred level of sweetness.
Bon Appétit, much like a crescendo before the main act, sets the stage for a gratifying dining experience. William Schmidt’s influence, alongside his contemporaries, is palpable in this exquisite libation—a testament to the intricate art of mixing. With each sip of Bon Appétit, we pay homage to the pioneers of mixology, whose creativity and expertise have shaped the world of cocktails.
As the flavors of dry vermouth and fino sherry intertwine, the cocktail dances on the palate. The dash of absinthe adds an intriguing layer, while the Angostura bitters contribute a touch of complexity. The subtle sweetness of sugar syrup harmonizes the ensemble, creating a balanced and refreshing prelude.
Crafting Bon Appétit is an ode to the anticipation of a delectable meal. Stirring the ingredients with ice mirrors the meticulousness of culinary craftsmanship, while the act of straining over fresh ice maintains the cocktail’s invigorating essence.
Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening or celebrating with friends, Bon Appétit is an invitation to relish the moment and indulge in the art of libation. Share this captivating elixir with fellow enthusiasts, and engage in conversations that celebrate the legacy of cocktail pioneers.
In essence, Bon Appétit is a toast to tradition, innovation, and the harmonious blend of flavors. Raise your glass to William Schmidt, Jerry Thomas, Harry Johnson, and the enduring allure of Bon Appétit—a cocktail that elevates the palate and prepares it for a culinary delight.
