A Parisian Escape in a Glass: Champs-Élysées Cocktail Recipe

Transport yourself to the heart of Paris with the Champs-Élysées Cocktail, a sophisticated and refreshing blend of Cognac, Chartreuse, lemon juice, and bitters. This classic recipe, named after the famous Parisian avenue, is a timeless choice for any occasion, offering a unique balance of flavors and a touch of French flair.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ ounces Cognac
• ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice
• ½ ounce Green Chartreuse
• ¼ ounce simple syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Lemon twist, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Chill the Glass: Begin by chilling your coupe or martini glass. Fill the glass with ice and let it sit for a few minutes. Discard the ice before adding the ingredients.

Combine the Cocktail: In a separate mixing glass, combine the Cognac, lemon juice, Green Chartreuse, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir gently for 30 seconds, or until the drink is well chilled and diluted.

Strain and Garnish: Using a bar strainer, strain the cocktail into the chilled coupe or martini glass. Discard the ice from the mixing glass.

Serve and Enjoy: Express the oils from a lemon twist by gently squeezing it over the drink and then dropping it into the glass for garnish (optional). Enjoy your Champs-Élysées Cocktail in all its Parisian glory!

Tips and Variations:

Quality Matters: Invest in a good quality Cognac to elevate the flavor profile of your cocktail.

Fresh is Best: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest and most authentic flavor.

Sweetness Preference: Adjust the amount of simple syrup to your taste. Start with ¼ ounce and add more if desired.

Garnish Alternatives: For a different visual appeal, consider a maraschino cherry or a sprig of fresh mint as a garnish.

Batching: To make a larger batch for a party, simply multiply the recipe proportionally and stir everything in a pitcher with ice. Strain individual servings into chilled glasses.

Historical Note:

The Champs-Élysées first appeared in cocktail books around 1925. It's considered a close relative of the Sidecar, but with the unique addition of Green Chartreuse, which adds a touch of herbal complexity and sweetness to the drink.

With its elegant simplicity and captivating flavors, the Champs-Élysées is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, gather your friends, raise a glass to the City of Lights, and savor this taste of Parisian sophistication.