Czarina
An elegant, stone-fruit aperitif mixing vodka, dry vermouth, and apricot brandy.
The Czarina is a sophisticated stirred cocktail that treats vodka like gin, pairing it with dry vermouth and the lush sweetness of apricot brandy. The result is a dry, aromatic drink with a soft fruit finish, similar to an apricot martini. Bitters add a necessary spine to ground the sweetness. It is a refined, spirit-forward option that highlights vodka's ability to carry delicate fruit flavors without masking them.
Ingredients
- • 1.5 oz vodka
- • 0.75 oz dry vermouth
- • 0.75 oz apricot brandy
- • 1 dash Angostura bitters
Did you know?
“Like the Tovarich and Balalaika, the Czarina appears in the *Savoy Cocktail Book*, part of a trio of 'Russian' themed drinks that introduced vodka to the London palate.”
Bartender's Note
Ensure the apricot brandy is a high-quality liqueur, not a sugary syrup, to maintain the drink's dry balance.
How to make the Czarina
- 1Add vodka, vermouth, apricot brandy, and bitters to a mixing glass with ice
- 2Stir until well chilled
- 3Strain into a chilled Nick & Nora glass
- 4Garnish with an orange twist
