photo #9207626

Mile High MartiniCalling this a martini is a bit of a stretch, though not as much as an espresso or lemon drop.It is characterized by a cloud layer in the middle of the drink that disappears if gently swirled, so an over-sized martini glass is best for it.Ingredients:1-1/2 oz chilled Gin of your choice3/4 oz Countreau1/4 oz high-proof Absinthe 1/2 oz ice cold waterYou can substitute Vodka for Gin, but I find the drink works better with Gin, and I generally prefer Vodka martinis.Don't substitute Grand Marnier for Countreau. You want a clear, sweet orange liqueur for the base to counter the Absinthe bitterness.The drink is built, layered in a martini glass.First, pour in the Cointreau.Next, louche the Absinthe with the water and float over a barspoon over the Countreau.Finally, float the Gin over a barspoon over the louched Absinthe.If done properly, you will have a cloud layer in the middle of the glass that disappears upon recommended swirling by the customer.If you choose to garnish, an expressed orange peel works well, but I find it detracts from the presentation. If you insist, best to express the peel and balance it on the rim of the glass.