The Cocktail of the Week is adapted from the revised edition of my Complete Book of Mixed Drinks (HarperCollins, 2002).

I am suggesting at least one featured spirit for each cocktail. These choices are based on my objective evaluation and are not paid advertisements. Enjoy!

Anthony Dias Blue

The Square Pear

This new all-organic American vodka is lush, seductive and clean—the perfect spirit for this complex yet refreshing cocktail.

2 ounces Square One Organic Vodka
1/2 ounce Punt e Mes (or other sweet red vermouth)
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 ounce elderflower syrup
1/2 ounce organic agave nectar
1/2 teaspoon coarsely minced ginger
1/4 peeled Asian or Bartlett pear, sliced very thinly
4 to 5 leaves of fresh mint, cut into thin strips 1 sprig of mint

Place all ingredients into a cocktail shaker and pack with ice. Shake vigorously for one minute, then strain and serve in a chilled martini glass. Garnish with the mint sprig.

Featured Spirit
of the Week

Square One Vodka

Anthony Dias Blue's Complete Book of Mixed Drinks and Complete Book of Spirits are available from Amazon.com.