Contemporary · Gin Sour Variation · Medium
Vieux Mot
In the owner’s words: Crisp · Very Tart yet Balanced
- Base
- Gin
- Glass
- Nick & Nora
- Method
- Shaken
- Effort
- Beginner · 4 min
- ABV
- 16%
Build
- Dry Ginor London Dry Gin
- Lemon JuiceFreshly squeezed
- St-Germain Elderflower Liqueuror Other elderflower liqueur
- Simple Syrup1:1 sugar to water ratio
- LemonExpress oils over drink · optional · garnish
You’ll need: Cocktail shaker, Hawthorne strainer
Method — Shaken
- Add gin, lemon juice, St-Germain, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice
- Shake vigorously until well-chilled (about 12 seconds)
- Strain into a chilled Nick & Nora glass
- Optionally garnish with a lemon twist
The story
The Vieux Mot (French for 'Old Word') is a modern cocktail attributed to bartender Sam Ross. It's a variation on the gin sour that incorporates St-Germain elderflower liqueur. The name may be a play on 'vieux mot,' an old-fashioned French expression, contrasting with the contemporary nature of the drink.
Variations
Some versions use less simple syrup and St-Germain for a drier cocktail. Others add a dash of orange bitters. The drink is occasionally served over ice in a rocks glass for a more casual presentation.
Host tips
The balance between tart lemon juice and the sweetness of St-Germain and simple syrup is crucial. The drink should be quite tart but not unpleasantly sour. Fresh lemon juice is essential for the bright, crisp character of the cocktail.
