Few cocktails encapsulate the marriage of traditional refinement and contemporary mixology like the Earl Grey Marteani. This tea-infused cocktail pays homage to its namesake—the sophisticated Earl Grey tea—while adding a modern twist that has captured the hearts of cocktail enthusiasts worldwide.
A Brief History of the Earl Grey Marteani
The Earl Grey Marteani was first conceived by Audrey Saunders, the legendary bartender and owner of the Pegu Club in New York City. Saunders, a pioneer in the craft cocktail renaissance of the early 2000s, sought to create a drink that was both approachable and elegant. Drawing inspiration from the versatility of tea as an ingredient and its longstanding association with refinement, she decided to incorporate Earl Grey tea into a classic sour cocktail structure.
Earl Grey tea, with its distinctive flavor profile derived from bergamot oil, adds a unique floral and citrusy note to the drink. By pairing it with gin, lemon juice, and a hint of sweetness, Saunders created a cocktail that is both balanced and intriguing. The Earl Grey Marteani quickly became a modern classic, celebrated for its creative use of tea and its nod to tradition.
The Recipe: How to Make an Earl Grey Marteani
Creating an Earl Grey Marteani at home is surprisingly simple, provided you have the right ingredients and a little patience to prepare the tea-infused gin. Here's the step-by-step guide to making this delightful cocktail:
Ingredients
60 ml (2 oz) Earl Grey-infused gin*
22.5 ml (3/4 oz) freshly squeezed lemon juice
22.5 ml (3/4 oz) simple syrup
1 egg white (optional, for a silky texture)
Ice
*To make Earl Grey-infused gin: Steep 2 teaspoons of loose Earl Grey tea (or 2 tea bags) in 250 ml (1 cup) of gin for 1-2 hours, then strain out the tea leaves or bags.
Instructions
Prepare your ingredients: Make sure your gin is infused with Earl Grey tea and that all ingredients are measured and ready to go.
Dry shake: In a cocktail shaker, combine the Earl Grey-infused gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using). Shake vigorously without ice for about 10 seconds. This step helps to emulsify the egg white and create a frothy texture.
Shake with ice: Add ice to the shaker and shake again, this time until the mixture is well-chilled and frothy.
Strain and serve: Double strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass. Double straining removes any ice shards and ensures a smooth texture.
Garnish: For a finishing touch, garnish with a twist of lemon peel or a light sprinkle of Earl Grey tea leaves.
Why It Works
The Earl Grey Marteani is a masterclass in balance. The floral and citrus notes of the bergamot in Earl Grey tea are beautifully complemented by the botanicals in gin, while the lemon juice adds a bright acidity that ties the flavors together. The simple syrup provides just enough sweetness to round out the drink, and the egg white contributes a luxurious, silky mouthfeel.
Variations to Explore
While the classic recipe is a standout, there are ways to tweak the Earl Grey Marteani to suit your preferences:
Swap the spirit: Try using vodka or a floral liqueur like St-Germain for a softer flavor profile.
Herbal twists: Add a few drops of lavender bitters or a sprig of rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Non-alcoholic version: Substitute the gin with a non-alcoholic botanical spirit or a concentrated Earl Grey syrup for a mocktail version.
Conclusion
The Earl Grey Marteani is more than just a cocktail; it’s a testament to the creativity and artistry of modern mixology. Whether you’re a tea lover, a cocktail aficionado, or simply someone looking to try something new, this drink is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, channel your inner bartender, and enjoy a sip of sophisticated history in every glass.
Watch me make it here.
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