Given the choice to be Mary Queen of Scots or Mary Queen of Spritz, the latter is certainly the better option. For those not obsessed with British history that begins prior to The Crown, here’s a little plot summary: Scotland’s Mary Stuart inherited her crown from her father, King James V of Scotland, as he died when she was just a wee babe, only six days into the world. Her cousin, Elizabeth I, had an inkling that Mary wanted to steal her thrown and, as it turned out, it was true, when a letter was interceded from Mary proving that she was plotting the assassination of poor Betsy. In turn, she was beheaded for her not-too-nice notions of kicking Elizabeth to the permanent curb.
But Queen of Spritz? That’s much safer territory, even if Scotch in the traditionally light and bright cocktail might raise an eyebrow. With a hint of absinthe and spice-cabinet bitters, there’s an herbaceousness to this spritz riff that complements the spirit, but gets a little softened and balanced by the Prosecco and elderflower liqueur. It’s snappy and refreshing, and you certainly won’t lose your head after having one.
Mary Queen of Spritz
Ingredients
- 1 oz Aberfeldy 12 year old Scotch Whisky
- 1 oz Noilly Prat dry vermouth
- 1/4 oz St.-Germain elderflower liqueur
- 2 dashes Peychaud's Bitters
- 2 dashes absinthe
- 1-2 oz brut-style Prosecco
- 1 lemon peel
Directions
- In a highball glass filled with ice, pour in the Scotch, vermouth, St.-Germain, bitters and absinthe. Stir well.
- Top with prosecco and garnish with the lemon peel. Cheers!
