American Beauty

The concept behind the American Beauty is to create a cocktail as pleasant to look at as to sip. Whereas some cocktail names are straightforward descriptions of their contents, others are poetic invocations. Some of the latter border on the ludicrous or just meaningless (Flirting with the Sandpiper, anyone?), but—inspired by the American Beauty rose—this lush pink cocktail is a shimmering example of a perfectly named drink.




The blend of numerous spirits in an American Beauty requires using a sturdy shaker and shaking vigorously. Although port is added at the end to simulate a red rose petal, bartenders have been known to drop actual petals into the cocktail. For a slightly sweeter drink, add a dash of Rich Simple Syrup. Yum.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 ounce fresh orange juice
• 1 tablespoon grenadine
• 1 ounce dry vermouth
• 1 ounce brandy
• 1/4 teaspoon white crème de menthe
• 1/2 ounce port
• Rose petal (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Shake the orange juice, grenadine, vermouth, brandy, and crème de menthe with ice; then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Top with the port, and garnish with a rose petal, if desired.

Source : Chow.com