Cherry Blossom Martini
Nothing evokes springtime like Japanese cherry blossoms, or sakura, which peak in bloom between March and May. Here, we’ve paired cherry blossom flavors with sake and vermouth. “Junmai” translates to “pure rice” and describes a specific category of sake made solely from rice, koji, and water, without any additional distilled alcohol added. They tend to be fuller-bodied and earthier in flavor, making them the perfect accompaniment to the sweet-floral notes of this drink.
Ingredients
- 1 oz. (30 ml) cherry blossom syrup, plus more to taste
- 1 oz. (30 ml) junmai sake
- 3/4 oz. (25 ml) blanc vermouth
- 2 oz. (60 ml) cherry blossom gin
- Cherry blossom for garnish
- Maraschino cherry for garnish
Directions
In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the cherry blossom syrup, sake, vermouth and gin. Shake vigorously until well chilled. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a cherry blossom and a maraschino cherry and serve. Makes 1 drink.
Williams Sonoma Test Kitchen