Vodka gives Bénédictine room to supply the herbal character in the Gypsy Queen. Difford’s Guide cites historian David Wondrich’s discovery of a reference in a 1938 Russian Tea Room booklet. That is evidence of the drink’s early appearance, rather than proof of a particular invention date.
This is a compact, stirred drink with no citrus juice. The orange peel contributes aroma at the surface, while a dash of bitters joins the liqueur in the glass. Chill the serving glass before starting and keep the garnish small. A Nick & Nora suits the modest volume and leaves room for the twist without requiring extra mixer.
Ingredients
Makes one cocktail.
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz Bénédictine
- 1 dash Angostura aromatic bitters
- Orange peel twist, for garnish
Method
- Chill a Nick & Nora glass. Combine the vodka, Bénédictine and bitters in a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir until cold, then strain through a fine strainer into the serving glass, leaving the ice behind.
- Squeeze the orange peel over the surface to release its oils and add the twist.
Recipe credit: Classic cocktail; this specification follows Difford’s Guide. Read the recipe at Difford’s Guide.
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