Queen Elizabeth
A refined and regal classic cocktail that balances the botanical notes of gin with the crispness of dry vermouth and the complex, herbal sweetness of Bénédictine. An elegant variation on the martini structure perfect for a sophisticated evening.
What it tastes like
The aroma leads with juniper and honeyed herbal notes from the Bénédictine. On the palate, the gin provides a crisp structure while the liqueur adds a weightier, medicinal sweetness. The mouthfeel is smooth and slightly oily, finishing with a lingering botanical dryness from the vermouth.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Dry Vermouth0.5 oz
- Gin1.5 oz
- Bénédictine1.5 tsp
Preparation
- 1
Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- 2
Add the gin, dry vermouth, and Bénédictine to the mixing glass.
- 3
Stir well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled and properly diluted.
- 4
Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
- 5
Serve immediately.
Substitutions
- GinVodka — Using vodka removes the juniper profile, focusing the drink entirely on the herbal characteristics of the liqueur.
- BénédictineYellow Chartreuse — Yellow Chartreuse offers a similar honeyed sweetness but introduces more pronounced saffron and anise flavors.
- Dry VermouthLillet Blanc — This swap increases the citrus notes and adds a slightly sweeter, fruitier body to the cocktail.
Variations
Earl Grey Elizabeth
Infuse the gin with Earl Grey tea to add bergamot notes and a tannic structure that complements the herbal liqueur.
Coronation Spritz
Build the ingredients in a wine glass over ice and top with three ounces of dry sparkling wine for a carbonated variation.