The Smoking Au Pair: A Stunning Gin and Pear Cocktail

Ready to shake up your cocktail game? The gin and pear cocktail is a perfect choice for those who want a refreshing drink with a hint of sophisticated sweetness. This guide will show you how to master a beautiful recipe, "The Smoking Au Pair," and also provide tips on how to craft other exquisite floral gin cocktails. This unique drink, created by our friend Mick in Montreal, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that balances bold flavors with a delicate finish.

Why a Gin and Pear Cocktail is a Perfect Choice

The combination of gin's complex botanicals and the subtle sweetness of pear is a match made in mixology heaven. While many associate gin with classic citrus or herbal notes, its versatility allows it to pair exceptionally well with fruit. The pear provides a mellow, juicy body that softens the sharp juniper and allows the more delicate floral notes of the gin to shine. This makes a gin and pear cocktail both refreshing and unexpectedly complex.

The Star of the Show: The Smoking Au Pair Recipe

The "Smoking Au Pair" is more than just a drink; it's an experience. The "dry shake" creates a luxurious, silky foam, and the Japanese whiskey rinse adds a layer of depth and aroma. It’s a perfect showcase for a high-quality gin.

The Smoking Au Pair Ingredients

Makes one cocktail

• 2 oz dry gin
• 2 oz unsweetened pear juice
• 1 oz ginger liqueur
• 1 egg white
• Bar spoon champagne vinegar
• Bar spoon El Guapo™ Orgeat Syrup
• 3-4 dashes El Guapo™ Love Potion #9 Bitters
• 1 tbsp Japanese whiskey, to rinse
• Fresh thyme, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine the gin, unsweetened pear juice, ginger liqueur, egg white, champagne vinegar, El Guapo™ Orgeat Syrup, and El Guapo™ Love Potion #9 Bitters in a clean, dry shaker.
2. Dry shake vigorously for at least 15 seconds to create a thick, frothy foam.
3. Add ice to the shaker and shake again until the mixture is well chilled.
4. While the mixture settles, rinse your serving glass with Japanese whiskey. Pour the whiskey into the glass, swirl it to coat the inside, and then discard the remaining liquor into the sink.
5. Pour the shaken cocktail mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a fresh sprig of thyme.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

More Floral Gin Cocktails to Inspire You

Gin is a natural canvas for floral flavors. If you love the floral essence of the Smoking Au Pair, here are two more floral gin cocktails that are easy to make and equally impressive.

Lavender Gin Sour

For a simple yet elegant cocktail, try a Lavender Gin Sour. Combine 2 oz gin, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, 0.75 oz lavender simple syrup, and a single egg white. Dry shake first to create a foam, then shake with ice. Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with a sprig of lavender.

Rose Gin Fizz

The Rose Gin Fizz is a light, bubbly, and fragrant option. In a shaker with ice, combine 2 oz gin, 1 oz fresh lime juice, and 0.5 oz rose water simple syrup. Shake until well chilled, then strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Top with club soda and garnish with a rose petal or a twist of lemon.

Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of gin is best for a gin and pear cocktail?

A London Dry gin with a strong botanical profile works best. Its juniper-forward notes complement the pear and ginger without being too overpowering.

What is a dry shake?

A dry shake is a technique used to create a rich, dense foam for cocktails that include egg white. By shaking without ice first, you allow the egg proteins to emulsify fully, resulting in a thick and stable foam.

Can I substitute the pear juice?

While pear juice is a key ingredient, you can experiment with other fruit juices like apple or quince for a similar flavor profile. Just be aware that the sweetness and texture may change.