Widow's Kiss

Instructions

1. Chill your coupe glass by filling it with ice or placing it in the freezer.

2. Add the brandy, Green Chartreuse, Maraschino Liqueur, and Angostura bitters to a shaker filled with ice cubes.

3. Stir the mixture well for about 30 seconds until thoroughly chilled.

4. Discard the ice from the coupe glass if used for chilling.

5. Strain the cocktail mixture into the chilled coupe glass.

6. Garnish with a Maraschino cherry.

Trivia

• What does a Widow's Kiss cocktail taste like?

  A Widow's Kiss offers a complex flavour profile. It's primarily herbal and slightly sweet, with warming notes from the brandy (traditionally Calvados). Green Chartreuse provides strong herbal and botanical notes, Maraschino Liqueur adds a subtle cherry-almond complexity, and Angostura bitters contribute a layer of spice and bitterness for balance. It's a sophisticated, spirit-forward drink.

• What is the origin of the Widow's Kiss cocktail?

  The Widow's Kiss cocktail first appeared in George J. Kappeler's 1895 book "Modern American Drinks: How to Mix and Serve All Kinds of Cups and Drinks". It's considered a classic cocktail from the late 19th century, showcasing the complex herbal liqueurs popular during that era.

• What is Calvados, the traditional base for a Widow's Kiss?

  Calvados is an apple or pear brandy originating from the Normandy region of France. It provides a distinct fruity and slightly woody base that complements the herbal liqueurs in the original Widow's Kiss recipe. If Calvados isn't available, another good quality brandy can be substituted, though it will alter the flavour slightly.

• What's the difference between Green and Yellow Chartreuse?

  Both Green and Yellow Chartreuse are French herbal liqueurs made by Carthusian Monks since the 1740s, based on a secret recipe of 130 herbs, plants, and flowers. Green Chartreuse (55% ABV) is more potent, intensely herbal, and complex. Yellow Chartreuse (40% ABV) is milder, sweeter, and has more prominent honey and saffron notes. The original Widow's Kiss recipe calls for Yellow Chartreuse, but Green Chartreuse can be used for a bolder flavour.

• Can I shake a Widow's Kiss instead of stirring?

  While you technically *can* shake it, the Widow's Kiss is traditionally stirred. Stirring is preferred for cocktails composed entirely of spirits, as it chills the drink effectively while minimizing dilution and avoiding the cloudy appearance and tiny air bubbles introduced by shaking. Stirring results in a smoother, clearer, and more velvety texture suitable for this spirit-forward cocktail.

• What type of glass is best for a Widow's Kiss?

  The Widow's Kiss is best served 'up' (chilled, without ice) in a chilled coupe glass. A martini glass is also a suitable alternative. The stemmed glass helps maintain the cocktail's cool temperature and showcases its colour and clarity, enhancing the overall drinking experience.