Spicy Aphrodite
This sultry cocktail from mixologist David Grant contains several known aphrodisiac ingredients in a base of sparkling wine.
Equipment
- Venetian mask optional
Ingredients
- 2 oz Fortified Herbal Simple Syrup
- 12 oz Brut Champagne or sparkling wine
Fortified Herbal Simple Syrup:
- 3 cups water
- 3 cups sugar
- 5 allspice berries whole
- 1 star anise whole
- 3 cardamom pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 whole cloves
- 3 tbsp damiana leaf
- 1 tsp horny goat weed optional
- 1 tsp ginseng optional
- 2 inch piece fresh ginger root sliced
- 1/4 tsp. nutmeg ground or grated
- 1 whole vanilla bean
- 1 cup white rum*
Instructions
- Pour 1oz. Fortified Herbal Simple Syrup into a red wine glass
- Top with 6 oz. Brut Champagne or Sparkling Wine
- Tie a Venetian mask around the glass (see photo)
- Alternatively, garnish with an edible flower, such as an organic orchid or pea blossom
To make the Fortified Herbal Simple Syrup
- Add the water and sugar to a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and simmer until the sugar is dissolved, (about 2 minutes).
- Remove from heat and add the spices and herbs including the allspice, star anise, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, damiana, horny goat weed, ginseng, ginger, nutmeg and vanilla. Allow the herbs and spices to steep until the syrup cools to room temperature (about 20 minutes).
- Stir in the rum.
- Strain the syrup through the cheesecloth or nut bag into a container with an airtight lid.
- Chill completely before serving. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to one month.
Notes
To make a mocktail Spicy Aphrodite, omit the rum from the herbal syrup. Combine one oz of the non-alcoholic syrup with sparkling water and enjoy!