Martina's Martini

I discovered this drink while bartending at a French bistro in
Chicago. The waiters would pour the drink in front of the customer
(it was a nice place), and then return the shaker to the back bar,
where we discreetly polished off the dregs. Who could blame us?
This fruity drink is irresistible. An exotic blend of vodka,
Chambord, and pineapple juice, this frothy, mulberry-colored
cocktail has long since replaced the Cosmo as my drink of choice.
And with half the vodka, it’s much less debilitating—so
avoid it if you value potency over pleasure.

In truth, the French Martini is about as representative of
France as the french fry. Steeped in tradition and refinement, the
French are more likely to opt for a glass of Bordeaux or cognac
when they go out. The name comes from Chambord, the raspberry
liqueur from which it’s made. This decadent, syrupy dessert
liqueur, a favorite among the court of Louis XIV, is bottled
hedonism. It’s worth having, if only for the impressive
bottle, but if your purse strings are tight, feel free to
substitute Creme de Cassis (a cheaper liqueur made from black
currants).

The French Martini

To make:

1.5 oz. vodka (preferably Absolut Citron)

1/4 oz. Chambord

1/4 oz. pineapple juice

Pour liquid into a shaker glass filled 2/3 with ice. Shake.
Strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a twisted lemon
peel.