Enchanted Forest

To toast a magical journey through a fairy door required something equally enchanting. Fairies have been associated with the bitter liqueur absinthe since the Belle Epoche, a period we have visited on numerous occasions in the past. The Bohemians were enamored of the drink, which they called “La Fee Verte”, the Green Fairy. Famed English mixologist Dick Bradsell acknowledged the history of the drink when he created his “Green Fairy” cocktail, using absinthe as the base spirit in a classic sour. This was the drink we used to toast another in this Fairy Door series of puzzles. It’s a delicious way to enjoy absinthe in a cocktail.

A mysterious, complex and beguiling potion

But getting lost in the forest is what the Dark Fairy Door is all about, and I’ve wandered off the path for this toast. To the classic Green Fairy cocktail I’ve added the lightly bitter and refreshing aperitif Lillet, some gin, and a touch of sweetness with honey and the bergamot liqueur Italicus. It’s truly decadent, mysterious and enchanting. Be careful or it might make you lose your way as well. Cheers!

Fair well, pair well

Enchanted Forest

1 ½ oz gin

1 oz Lillet

1 oz absinthe

1 oz lemon

¼ oz Italicus

¼ oz Tupelo honey

Shake together with ice and strain into a favorite glass. Enchanted citrus peel garnish using ruby red grapefruit, pomelo, meyer lemon, lime and blood oranges can be substituted for a simple lemon twist if you must.