A drink that tastes of damp forest and fresh mint – perfect for gloomy mornings or as a digestif after a rich meal. The combination of anise spirit and Crème de Menthe starts out bewitchingly sweet, then cools into a herbal finish. The cucumber adds an almost invisible freshness that gently envelops the alcohol. Not a cocktail for purists, but one that surprises.
And here’s what you’ll need for the Misty Morning
3 cl anise spirit (e.g., pastis or absinthe substitute)
2 cl Crème de Menthe (white)
1 thin cucumber slice (plus 1 for garnish)
Soda water (approx. 8–10 cl)
Ice cubes
Here’s what matters
Don’t just toss the cucumber into the glass – slice it so thinly that it’s almost translucent. It will then settle like a veil over the drink, releasing its aroma slowly without dominating. For a more intense flavour, lightly rub the cucumber with salt before rinsing it off: this removes bitter compounds and rounds out the aroma. Important: the Crème de Menthe must be white; green varieties will overpower the anise flavour.
Variations
- Misty Morning Light — Replace the anise spirit with 2 cl ouzo and reduce the Crème de Menthe to 1 cl. Top up with more soda water to balance the sweetness. Tastes lighter and more citrusy.
- Misty Morning Smoky — Add 0.5 cl smoky single malt Scotch whisky and replace the soda water with tonic water. The mint becomes earthier, almost like after a campfire in the woods.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use vodka instead of anise spirit?
Yes, but the drink will lose its characteristic spice. If you use vodka, add 0.5 cl lemon juice and 1 dash of Angostura bitters to create depth.
Why does the drink turn milky when I add soda water?
That’s the louche effect: the essential oils in the anise spirit react with the water, clouding the liquid. This is intentional and gives the drink its signature look.
How long does Crème de Menthe keep?
Unopened, for years; opened and refrigerated, about 6–12 months. Watch for changes in colour or smell – if it smells of plastic or rancid, throw it away.
