Today, I was asked the question what I look for in a cocktail. What makes a cocktail good according to me? The first thing I want in a cocktail is that it stands out, it has an identity. A cocktail that is similar to other cocktails without being unique in some way, it may be that it is simple or has some element that works really well. If there is some history related to the cocktail, there is a story to its identity. Diving into the cocktail’s past is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the hobby without needing to consume excessive amounts of alcohol. Secondly the cocktail needs to challenge me in some way. If I ask myself “what is it that I’m drinking?” then it will either be a fantastic cocktail or a terrible one. There is something lovely about the wonders of finding new nuances with every sip. Having cocktails of this alluring nature is something that I really like. Thirdly a cocktail, often in combination with either the first and second point, may just be plain good or even fantastic. That is there are many reasons to like a cocktail but these three are often those that makes the cocktail for me.

With this cocktail, it was actually rather good. With cherry and apple notes at the base of the cocktail with herbs on top of that from the Benedictine and vermouth. All delicately hidden, though definitely noticeable, beneath the ginger beer creates an autumn feeling of this cocktail. The name also suggests that it may be associated with that time of the year. With that, there is an identity of the cocktail. The cocktail is somewhat challenging mainly in that there are many layers to the cocktail. Then the question is if I think it’s plain good. For me, it is a nice cocktail, but I don’t care too much about it. it is well balanced, it has great flavour combinations, but I don’t care for it. If I would have it in September or October, perhaps my thoughts would have been different, the time I have a cocktail definitely affects my perception of it. But in March? Then I feel like there are better alternatives. Though I think that, I would actually recommend the cocktail if you have the things on hand. Otherwise, I cannot recommend you going out and sourcing the ingredients for this cocktail specifically.

My Recipe:

• 1.5 oz (4.5 cl) Calvados
• 0.5 oz (1.5 cl) Sweet Vermouth
• 0.5 oz (1.5 cl) Benedictine
• 0.5 oz (1.5 cl) Cherry Liqueur
• 0.5 oz (1.5 cl) Lemon Juice
• 2 oz (6 cl) Ginger Beer

Add all ingredients except for the ginger beer to a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a Collins glass with ice. Top with 2 oz ginger beer. Garnish with an orange wheel.