This gem – named for the left-bank neighborhood in Paris renowned as an avant-garde hot spot in the early 20th century – may or may not be a timeless classic. I don’t much care. It’s wonderful and that’s the whole point. This recipe comes from the redoubtable David Lebovitz, witty writer, food and drink expert, Francophile, and all-round bon vivant. And who could ask for a better reference?
It’s based on Calvados – apple brandy – and the whole thing has a crisp, slightly tart, apple-ish flavor that’s unusual and very refreshing. Perfect for a sip outdoors, at least six feet from the next person, enjoying a balmy evening.
Give this one a try. Pretend the current clouds have passed and you’re sitting in a left bank café. Or in Normandy. Or Provence. Or …
Montparnasse
1.5 oz Calvados (I use Daron)
.75 oz St. Germain elderflower liqueur
.5 oz lemon juice – fresh of course
.5 oz dry white wine
Combine the ingredients in a shaker, get it good and cold, and strain into your favorite cocktail glass. For those who garnish, a paper-thin slice of apple looks wonderful.
A word about ingredients
Lebovitz says you can ramp-up the apple flavor by using apple juice or cider instead of the white wine. I haven’t tried this because I like the degree of apple-ness just fine as-is and I’d suggest trying it this way before going deeper into the apple.
Also this: I’m aware that while I have a bottle of calvados on the shelf, relatively few others do. Not to worry. It’s not terribly expensive, you can substitute American applejack (usually cheaper) to no ill effect, and Drizly.com delivers. Same day! Huzzah!