The Smoking Au Pair: Aromatic Floral Gin Cocktails
Sep 17, 2025
If you want to shake things up, this gin and pear beauty is ready to steal the show. The Smoking Au Pair comes from our friend Mick in Montreal. It is elegant. It is aromatic. It is the kind of drink that makes people stop and ask what you are sipping. Bold flavors meet a soft, foamy finish that feels downright luxurious.
Why a Gin and Pear Cocktail is a Perfect Choice
Gin brings botanicals with backbone. Pear brings soft sweetness with quiet charm. Together they make a drink with balance and intention. The pear rounds out the juniper. The gin lifts the fruit. The result is refreshing and complex without trying too hard.
The Smoking Au Pair Recipe
This drink is more than a pour. It is an experience. A dry shake creates rich foam. A quick rinse of Japanese whiskey adds aroma and depth. It is a smart way to show off a great gin.
Ingredients
Makes one drink.
- 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
Instructions
- Combine the gin, pear juice, ginger liqueur, egg white, champagne vinegar, Orgeat Syrup and Love Potion No. 9 Bitters in a clean shaker.
- Dry shake for at least fifteen seconds until thick and frothy.
- Add ice. Shake again until cold.
- Rinse your glass with Japanese whiskey. Coat the inside. Discard the rest.
- Pour the cocktail into the prepared glass.
- Garnish with a sprig of thyme.
More Floral Gin Cocktails to Inspire You
If you love the floral profile of the Smoking Au Pair, here are two easy favorites.
Lavender Gin Sour
Combine gin, fresh lemon juice, lavender simple syrup and an egg white. Dry shake. Shake again with ice. Strain into a coupe. Garnish with lavender.
Rose Gin Fizz
Combine gin, fresh lime juice and rose water simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake until cold. Strain into a highball with ice. Top with club soda. Garnish with a lemon twist or a rose petal.
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 strong botanicals holds up beautifully. It balances the pear and ginger without overpowering the drink.
What is a dry shake?
A dry shake builds thick foam by mixing without ice first. It lets the egg white emulsify for a silky finish.
Can I substitute the pear juice?
You can try apple or quince. The flavor shifts a bit but stays in the same family.
