To me, there’s nothing more elegant than sipping on a martini. I’ve opted for a 50-50 style for this make-ahead cocktail, with an even split of botanical gin and vanilla-and citrus-scented Lillet Blanc. A touch of pear eau de vie and green cardamom add unexpected twists. Also, a quick note on the fridge-to-freezer method—not only will this guarantee an ice-cold cocktail, the extra hour in the freezer will result in a luscious, silky texture, making the whole experience that much more luxurious.
For an extra festive touch, you can top each glass with a splash of sparkling wine. Check out this collection for more big-batch cocktails →
Recipe information
Total Time
25 hours 5 minutes, including chilling time
Yield
Makes 6
Ingredients
1
9
9
4½
1
Need to make a substitution?
Preparation
Step 1
In a quart-size jar, muddle 1 green cardamom pod to break it up. Add 9 oz. gin, 9 oz. Lillet Blanc, 4½ oz. filtered water, and 1 oz. unaged pear brandy (such as Clear Creek). Refrigerate for 24 hours.
Step 2
Strain off cardamom pod using a fine-mesh strainer. Pour mixture back into jar and return to refrigerator until 1 hour before serving.
Step 3
One hour before serving, move jar to freezer to chill. When ready to serve, pour into Nick and Nora or martini glasses and garnish with lemon twists.
Do ahead: Cocktail will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.