Beverage Director Aviram Turgeman is shaking things up (literally speaking) at Monterey. In addition to the extensive Martini selection (served from a custom cart), his twist on the traditional French 75 is a piece of art.

For our Drink of the Week, there is nothing more festive than his VSM 75 when it comes to a celebratory cocktail. Think seasonal fruit, a luxurious spirit and Champagne! Mandarin peel infused Hennessy Cognac and Mandarin Syrup are shaken with lemon juice, strained, and topped with Champagne, served in a coupe glass garnished with citrus dust on the rim.

VSM 75 – Very Special Monterey French 75

Created by Kamil Lyczko, Head Bartender

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. clementine infused Hennessy VS

• 1/2 oz. Clementine purée

• 1/2 oz. lemon juice

Preparation: On a Nick and Nora glass and make a pomegranate dust kiss on the side of the glass. Add ice to shaker and shake vigorously 8-10 times. Double strain into glass. Top with a fresh Thienot Champagne Brut. Make a lemon peel and express the oils inside the cocktail then discard.

Behind the Cocktail: “Mandarins are delicious this time of year, and we celebrate the whole fruit by infusing cognac with the peel, we cook a syrup with the pulp and leaves, then mix the grape based spirit with Champagne of course. We finish the drink with lemon oil for a lifting freshness, and finally the citrus dust on the rim is a blend of dehydrated citrus peels with a touch of sugar and salt. It is sweet and sour and bubbly at the same time to set the mood for dinner and more.” – Aviram Turgeman, Beverage Director.