Sappho and Alcaeus by Lawrence Alma-Tadema (oil on canvas, 1881, public domain image)

Looking for a pleasing apetif? Master mixologist and friend of American Feast, Gary Regan, has just provided us with a recipe for one from his friend Rafael Ballesteros, a native of Spain. Gary says, “It's presumably Rafael's salute to the ancient Greek poet who was reputably born on the island of Lesbos, circa 620 B.C. The formula for Sappho is fairly simple in nature, but the resultant drink is incredibly complex”.

Gary has a request, “If you try this one, please raise your glass to Rafael as you take your first sip. And if you have a sizable disposable income, you might want to consider throwing the glass against the wall after you drain it. Rafael would like that.”

Ingredients for 1 Drink

• Green Chartreuse, to Rinse Glass
• 2 1/2 Ounces Gin
• 1/2 Ounce Campari
• 1/4 Ounce Cointreau
• 1 Orange Twist, for Garnish

Preparation

1. Pour the Chartreuse into a chilled cocktail glass, and by tilting the glass and rotating it at the same time, coat the entire interior with the liqueur.
2. Discard the excess Chartreuse.
3. Fill a mixing glass two-thirds full of ice and add the gin, Campari and Cointreau.
4. Stir for approximately 30 seconds.
5. Strain into the prepared cocktail glass.
6. Add the garnish.

If you’d like to purchase the book on spirits & cocktails that Gary calls, “My Baby” go to: The Joy of Mixology: The Consummate Guide to the Bartender's Craft

If you’d like to purchase a terrific bartender’s guide authored by Gary's partner Mardee go to: The Bartender's Best Friend: A Complete Guide to Cocktails, Martinis, and Mixed Drinks

To visit Gary and Mardee’s wonderful web site and sign up for their very witty newsletter go to: Ardent Spirits