april in paris

2 oz Salers Gentian Liqueur
1 oz Lemon Juice
3/4 oz Cardamom Syrup
1/2 oz Benedictine

Shake with ice and strain into a Collins glass with 2 oz soda water. Fill with ice and garnish with a cherry and a dehydrated lemon wheel.
For Andrea's first drink at the Baldwin Bar at Sichuan Garden II, she asked bartender Patrick Andrew for the April in Paris that Patrick attributed to Vannaluck Hongthong. With a gentian liqueur in the mix in a four part Collins-style drink, it reminded me of the Vatican City and the Italian Stallion. Once prepared, the April in Paris proffered a cherry and herbal bouquet to the nose. Next, a carbonated lemon sip led into a herbal swallow heavy on the gentian earthy notes and finishing with cardamom spice. Overall, rather refreshing and just as delightful as the other local April in Paris tribute to the Count Basie jazz album was.