Christmas cognac

These two cocktails come from Martell Cognac and use their Martell VS ($64/bottle) or VSOP ($100/bottle); they also suggest – for those who really want a holiday treat – trying the Martell Cordon Bleu ($260/bottle), which has beautiful complexity and rich aromas… legendary for the XO category.

One cocktail is spicy and seasonal while the other is a fresh twist on the classic sidecar. Pick your preferred flavour profile and enjoy.

Martell ginger spice

Brings out the fruit and spice notes found in the nose and palate of Martell VS, and those of biscuit and gingerbread throughout.

35 ml Martell VS
15 ml blackcurrant, pear or blackberry liqueur
10 ml lemon juice
Ginger beer, to top

Build ingredients in a hi-ball glass over cubed ice and garnish with a lemon slice.

Martell Sidecar

A taste of the roaring twenties, the Martell Sidecar balances sweetness, citrus high notes and the warm elegance of Martell cognac.

20 ml Martell cognac (Martell VS or Martell VSOP Medallion)
10 ml lemon juice
10 ml triple sec
1 orange peel
Ice

Put a few ice cubes into the shaker and add the Martell cognac, lemon juice and triple sec. Shake the ingredients together and pour into a cocktail strainer glass. Squeeze the orange peel over the cocktail.