The Kiss in the Dark is a classic Prohibition-era cocktail that combines Gin with dry Vermouth and Cherry Liqueur. The mixture vaguely resembles a Martinez, but the addition of Cherry Liqueur makes it fruitier and less Vermouth-heavy. The name plays on the dark color and the seductive effect – a drink that ensured secret rendezvous in the Speakeasies of the 1920s. Today, it is an elegant aperitif for those who appreciate bitter classics with a fruity note.
And here’s what you need for the Kiss in the Dark
4 cl London Dry Gin
2 cl dry Vermouth
2 cl Cherry Liqueur (Cherry Brandy)
This is what matters
The Kiss in the Dark relies on the balance between Gin and Vermouth – too much Cherry Liqueur makes it sweet and one-dimensional. I deliberately use a London Dry Gin with a pronounced juniper note because it needs to stand up to the Cherry Liqueur. When stirring, don’t overwork the drink: it should be chilled but not diluted. Some recipes use equal parts of all three ingredients, but then the Cherry Liqueur dominates too strongly. With 4 cl of Gin, the character of a Gin cocktail is preserved, while the Cherry Liqueur only contributes color and a subtle fruit note.
Variations
- Kiss in the Dark with Maraschino — Use 1.5 cl Maraschino Liqueur instead of Cherry Liqueur – drier and more elegant.
- Perfect Kiss — Use 1 cl each of dry and sweet Vermouth for more complexity.
Frequently asked questions
Which Cherry Liqueur should I use?
A classic Cherry Brandy works best – not too sweet, with real cherry flavor. Cherry Liqueur based on neutral alcohol often becomes too syrupy.
Can I shake the drink instead?
No, the Kiss in the Dark is stirred. Shaking would make it cloudy and destroy the silky texture that results from stirring.
Do I need a garnish?
Traditionally, the Kiss in the Dark is served without a garnish. If desired, a cocktail cherry can be placed on the rim of the glass – but this is optional.
