According to cocktail historians, this cocktail first appeared in print in 1895 in Modern American Drinks by George J. Kappeler. Although this drink has fallen into obscurity today, it appeared in every respectable cocktail book printed in the early twentieth century, with the same easy recipe. It seems this drink always had the favor of knowledgeable bartenders and connoisseurs, as its unique blend of flavors could be very challenging to the untrained palate of the casual drinker. In other words, this drink is best recommended for people who have moved beyond simple straightforward flavors and are looking for a carnival in the mouth. The Widow’s Kiss is a seasonal experience best enjoyed when it is cold outside. This classic cocktail is also one of the few cocktails we recommend as a digestive or an after-dinner cocktail.
Recipe information
Yield
makes 1 drink
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Pour the calvados, Chartreuse, Benedictine, and bitters into a mixing glass. Add large cold ice cubes and stir for 40 revolutions. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with the lemon twist.
tasting notes
Step 2
Dominant Flavors: sweet herbal bouquet
Step 3
Body: high alcohol with heavy syrupy mouthfeel
Step 4
Dryness: off-dry to sweet
Step 5
Complexity: high, forceful
Step 6
Accentuating or Contrasting Flavors: big herb bomb
Step 7
Finish: long, honey with citrus oil overtones
Step 8
Glass: cocktail
