The Lucien Gaudin is a classic but obscure cocktail that celebrates the well decorated French early 20th century fencer of the same name. You may notice it shares similarities with the Negroni. Both feature gin and Campari. The Lucien Gaudin however has the distinct presence of orange, both from the flavor with the Cointreau and in aroma of the orange peel garnish. The Lucien Gaudin is a dry, crisp classic that is light on its feet.

Lucian Gaudin

• 1 oz gin
• 1/2 oz Cointreau
• 1/2 oz Campari
• 1/2 oz dry vermouth
• Garnish with an orange twist

I’ve created a modern twist on the classic above that shifts the orientation from orange to grapefruit. With the craft brew scene gaining popularity in the United States I decided to feature a familiar flavor profile, the pairing of hops and grapefruit. I made a grapefruit hop syrup that gives this recipe a magnificent citrus and hop aroma. And I paired that with the citrusy quinine bite of Cocchi Americano. I also like how the subtle Artemisia flower notes pair with the hops. Bluecoat Gin is my choice of gin here. Feel free to deviate. I chose it because its aroma and palette includes a lot of citrus.

THE FENCER

• 1 1/2 oz Bluecoat Gin
• 3/4 oz Cocchi Americano
• 1/2 oz Campari
• 1/2 oz grapefruit hop syrup
• 2 dashes of Post Prohibition Pick Me Up Bitters
• Garnish with a grapefruit twist

Stir all ingredients except the garnish with ice. Strain into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with the grapefruit twist.