Lavender Provence

This week's feature is the "Lavender Provence" - a cocktail that tells the story of France's deep connection to both lavender and liqueur production. We're bringing together two of France's most cherished botanical traditions: the lavender fields of Provence and the violet liqueurs of the Alps.

Welcome to the About Mansfield COTW 2025! I'm your favorite master mixologist Brian Certain, and we're continuing our "April in Paris" series with a drink that's steeped in fascinating history.

Let's talk about the remarkable story behind each ingredient. Crème de Violette, despite its name, contains no cream at all. This stunning purple liqueur was a staple in pre-Prohibition cocktails, particularly the Aviation, but disappeared from American bars during Prohibition. It wasn't until 2007 that it made its triumphant return, sparking a revival of classic violet cocktails.

Meanwhile, French lavender has its own rich history. The Romans brought lavender to Provence over 2,000 years ago, believing it could tame lions and tigers and pacify the untamed. By the Middle Ages, the herb was so valuable that bundles of lavender could be exchanged for land, livestock, or other significant goods.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz French gin (like G'Vine or Citadelle)
• 0.5 oz Crème de Violette
• 0.75 oz lavender syrup
• 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
• Chilled soda water to top
• Fresh lavender sprig and lemon twist for garnish

For the Lavender Syrup

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons dried Provence lavender
• Steep like tea - don't overdo it!

Directions

1. Fill a shaker with fresh ice
2. Add gin, Crème de Violette, lavender syrup, and lemon juice
3. Shake gently - we want to preserve the delicate floral notes
4. Double strain into a champagne flute
5. Top with chilled soda
6. Garnish with lavender sprig and lemon twist

Flavor Profile

• Primary: Floral lavender and violet
• Secondary: Botanical gin, bright citrus
• Finish: Light, effervescent, with complex floral layers

Fun Facts:

• The color of Crème de Violette comes from actual violet flowers
• Provence produces around 250 tons of lavender essential oil annually
• The word "lavender" comes from the Latin "lavare" meaning "to wash"
• French monks used lavender in their medicinal preparations as early as 1371
• Traditional violet liqueurs were popular among French aristocracy
• The finest lavender in the world grows above 2,000 feet altitude in Provence

Pro Tips:

• Source true French lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) for authenticity
• Look for Crème de Violette that's naturally colored - artificial versions can taste medicinal
• Store lavender syrup in a dark bottle to preserve its delicate flavors

Perfect Pairings:

• French macarons
• Honey-lavender madeleines
• Violet-scented chocolates

As always, I'm open to hear your take and input. You can reach me at [email protected]