The Black Orchid

The black orchid is a member of the martini family, and because of this is meant to be a stronger drink. If you would like to make a milder version of it, I recommend pouring it in a pint glass (as demonstrated). This allows for more soda to be added, making it a sweeter drink.

Equipment

· Alcohol mixer

· Shot glass

· Martini or Pint glasses

Ingredients

· 3 ice cubes

· 1 shot of vodka (2 or more if you want a stronger version)

· 1 shot of cranberry juice

· ½ shot of blue curacao (careful, it stains)

· ½ shot of sweet and sour mix

· 1 lemon

· Granulated sugar

· Lemon-lime soda (about 1 can)

Before you begin any mixing, one way that I have made this version unique is the addition of granulated sugar to the rim of the glass. To do this, take a lemon slice and coat the rim of the glass with lemon juice. Once coated, place glass upside down on pile of granulated sugar and twist.

In this step you will add: 1 shot of vodka (2 or more if you want a stronger version), 1 shot of cranberry juice, ½ shot of blue curacao (careful, it stains), ½ shot of sweet and sour mix to the alcohol mixer. I have given the measurements in this format to avoid the necessity of using a jigger for measuring. If you want a stronger drink, an additional 1-2 shots of vodka can be added depending on the glass being used.

Shaking well ensures that the beverage is chilled before enjoying. Fifteen to thirty seconds is sufficient for chilling when shaken with ice.

With the drink already chilled, the addition of ice to the glass is not necessary and depending on the size of the glass and ice cubes, will not allow for much soda to be added.

No soda is specified in this step, as it is all a matter of preference. I have also not given a set amount as that matters both on size of glass and personal preference once again.

Here you can decorate the drink with the wedge used to coat the rim with sugar for a more dressed up version of the drink.

The Black Orchid is one of my favorite martinis and all of the different fruit flavors and zest of both the sweet and sour and lemon combine wonderfully to make a great drink for any season.