Death in the Afternoon Cocktail: Sip the Elegance

Hemingway Champagne, garnish with lemon

If you’re looking for a drink to celebrate this Halloween, Death in the Afternoon sounds like the perfect fit.

Death in the Afternoon recipe

Death in the Afternoon, also known as the Hemingway or Hemingway Champagne, is a classic cocktail that combines absinthe and champagne. This drink was invented by the renowned author Ernest Hemingway during his time as an expatriate in Paris.

Death in the Afternoon Cocktail with lemon wedge

This cocktail is named after his 1932 non-fiction book Death in the Afternoon, which discusses Spanish bullfighting. The drink presents a complex aromatic profile. Upon first encounter, the nose is greeted by the anise-forward scent of absinthe, intertwining with the yeasty, fruity notes of champagne.

The finish of this drink leaves a strong and memorable impression. The herbal notes from the absinthe blend nicely with the crisp, dry taste of champagne. Here’s how to make the Death in the Afternoon (Hemingway Champagne):

Hemingway Champagne, garnish with lemon

Death in the Afternoon (Hemingway Champagne)

An elegant, potent cocktail that combines the anise-forward complexity of absinthe with the effervescent luxury of champagne.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Course Drinks
Cuisine French
Servings 1
Calories 140 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 oz absinthe or anise-flavored liqueur
  • 4 oz chilled Champagne or sparkling wine
  • Lemon twist for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a champagne flute, pour the absinthe.
  • Slowly add the chilled Champagne, allowing it to mix gently.
  • Garnish with a lemon twist for a refreshing finish.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • The absinthe provides a unique herbal flavor that balances well with the bubbly sweetness of the Champagne.
  • Adjust the amount of absinthe to your taste preference, but keep in mind that this drink is meant to have a bold flavor.
Keyword classic cocktail, cocktail recipes, Hemingway cocktail, wine cocktail

If absinthe is unavailable, you can use:

  • Absente: A legal alternative to absinthe.
  • Pastis (e.g., Pernod): Offers a similar anise flavor profile but may alter the drink’s character slightly

While champagne is traditional, other sparkling wines like Prosecco can be used as a more affordable option. This can change the cocktail’s flavor profile while maintaining its bubbly nature.

How to pair

1. Desserts

When it comes to desserts, the Hemingway Champagne complements treats with subtle sweetness and herbal notes. Ideal pairings include:

  • Chocolate Desserts: Dark chocolate truffles or mousse can provide a rich contrast to the drink’s effervescence.
  • Lavender crème brûlée
  • Lemon and thyme tart: The sweetness and acidity of fruits can complement the cocktail’s flavors.
  • Vanilla panna cotta with anise-infused berries

These desserts echo the cocktail’s flavor profile while providing a satisfying sweet conclusion to the meal.

2. Appetizers

The Death in the Afternoon cocktail pairs exceptionally well with a variety of appetizers. Its complex flavor profile complements both delicate and bold flavors. Some ideal pairings include:

  • Oysters with mignonette sauce: The briny flavor complements the herbal notes of absinthe.
  • Goat cheese crostini with honey and thyme
  • Smoked salmon blinis
  • Crab Cakes: Their sweetness balances the cocktail’s bitterness.
  • Citrus-Based Salads: A salad with citrus dressing can add brightness that pairs nicely with the cocktail.

The anise notes in the cocktail enhance the briny flavors of seafood, while the effervescence cuts through rich, creamy textures.

3. Main course pairings

For main courses, the cocktail’s herbal notes harmonize with dishes featuring fresh herbs and light proteins. Consider pairing with:

  1. Herb-crusted rack of lamb
  2. Lemon and dill poached salmon
  3. Roasted chicken with tarragon

Hemingway Champagne vs other champagne cocktails

The Death in the Afternoon stands out among other champagne-based cocktails due to its unique use of absinthe. Here’s a comparison table:

CocktailBase SpiritMixerFlavor Profile
Death in the AfternoonAbsintheChampagneHerbal, complex, effervescent
French 75GinChampagne, lemon juiceCrisp, citrusy, bubbly
Kir RoyaleCrème de CassisChampagneSweet, fruity, elegant
MimosaOrange juiceChampagneLight, fruity, refreshing

The bold flavor profile and literary pedigree of this drink set it apart from its more common counterparts.

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