The Spanish Monk cocktail is a sophisticated and intriguing drink that balances the botanical complexity of gin and green chartreuse with the bright acidity of lemon and the silky texture of egg white. This classic cocktail, with roots tracing back to the mid-20th century, offers a unique experience for those seeking a departure from the ordinary. Its herbal notes, citrusy tang, and creamy mouthfeel create a symphony of flavors that are both refreshing and deeply satisfying.
The Essence of the Spanish Monk
At its heart, the Spanish Monk is a sour cocktail with a distinctive herbal twist. The key to its unique character lies in its core ingredients:
- Gin: A good quality dry gin serves as the base, providing a juniper-forward foundation that complements the other flavors.
- Green Chartreuse: This complex, herbal liqueur, made by Carthusian monks, is the soul of the cocktail. It brings a potent blend of botanical notes, including anise, mint, and a touch of spice.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: The acidity of freshly squeezed lemon juice balances the sweetness and herbal notes, adding a refreshing zest.
- Simple Syrup: A touch of simple syrup adds a necessary sweetness to balance the sourness.
- Egg White: The addition of egg white is crucial for the cocktail’s signature creamy texture and frothy head.
Crafting the Perfect Spanish Monk
Here’s how to create this balanced cocktail:
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz (45 ml) Dry Gin
- 0.75 oz (22.5 ml) Fresh Lemon Juice
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) Green Chartreuse
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) Simple Syrup
- 1 Egg White (or Aquafaba as a vegan substitute)
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker (Boston shaker or standard shaker)
- Hawthorne Strainer
- Fine-Mesh Strainer
- Coupe or Cocktail Glass
Instructions
- Chill the Glass: Place ice in a coupe or cocktail glass to chill while preparing the drink.
- Combine Ingredients: Add all ingredients (gin, green Chartreuse, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white) to the cocktail shaker.
- Dry Shake: Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for 30 seconds without ice. This crucial “dry shake” step emulsifies the egg white, creating a velvety texture.
- Add Ice: Open the shaker, add a handful of ice, and seal it again.
- Wet Shake: Shake vigorously for another 20 seconds, until the shaker is frosty.
- Double Strain: Empty the ice from the chilled glass. Double strain the cocktail into the glass using a Hawthorne strainer and a fine-mesh strainer to remove any ice shards and create a smooth texture.
- Garnish (Optional): Express the oils from a lemon twist over the drink and discard, or if preferred, use a quality maraschino cherry. Some prefer not to garnish.
The History of the Spanish Monk
The Spanish Monk’s origins can be traced back to Charles H. Baker Jr.’s The South American Gentleman’s Companion, published in 1951. It was featured as a recipe from Don Eduardo Lopéz in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The cocktail’s name is a nod to the inclusion of Chartreuse, a liqueur made by Carthusian monks.
The Chartreuse Connection
Chartreuse is a historic liqueur made by monks from a secret recipe using 130 herbs, plants and flowers. The liqueur’s production has a fascinating history, beginning in France, then moving to Tarragona, Spain in the early 1900s, when the French government expelled the monks from their monastery. During their time in Spain, the monks continued to produce their renowned liqueur. The Spanish Monk cocktail pays homage to this period in history.
Modern Interpretations
While the original recipe is relatively straightforward, modern variations have emerged, with some bartenders experimenting with different types of gin or incorporating other herbal liqueurs for a unique twist. These modern versions often maintain the core components of the original while adding their own style and flair.
Tips for the Best Spanish Monk
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Pre-bottled juice can alter the cocktail’s delicate balance.
- High-Quality Gin: Select a high-quality dry gin with a classic juniper-forward profile.
- Fresh Egg White: Use a fresh, high-quality egg white. If concerned about raw eggs, pasteurized egg whites or Aquafaba can be used as a substitute.
- The Importance of Shaking: The dry shake is critical to creating the signature foamy texture. Don’t skip this step.
- Double Strain: Double straining ensures that no ice shards make their way into the final drink, resulting in a smoother mouthfeel.
- Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of simple syrup to your preference. Some prefer a slightly sweeter or drier drink.
Why the Spanish Monk Stands Out
The Spanish Monk offers a unique drinking experience with its distinctive blend of flavors and textures. Its complex, herbal notes from the green Chartreuse, combined with the bright citrusy tang and the creamy mouthfeel of the egg white, make this cocktail a sophisticated option for those looking beyond the usual. Its historical roots add another layer of interest, offering a glimpse into the past while remaining a timelessly delicious drink. It’s a cocktail that is both approachable and intriguing, making it an excellent choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or simply looking for something new, the Spanish Monk is worth exploring. Its harmonious blend of flavors and fascinating history make it a truly exceptional choice.