Chrysanthemum - Elegant aperitif with vermouth and absinthe
Published: 19.06.2026
Chrysanthemum is a classic cocktail that appears simple but tastes more complex than the ingredient list suggests. With dry vermouth, Bénédictine, and a few dashes of absinthe, you get an aromatic aperitif with herbs, a hint of sweetness, and an orange twist on top.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 6.6 cl dry vermouth
- 3 cl Bénédictine
- 2 dashes absinthe
- Orange twist for garnish
- Ice for stirring
Instructions
- # Instructions (mise en place)
- Mise en place: Chill the cocktail glass. Gather a mixing glass, bar spoon, strainer, measuring cup, ice, and orange peel.
- Add dry vermouth, Bénédictine, and absinthe to the mixing glass.
- Fill the mixing glass well with ice.
- Stir until the drink is cold and slightly diluted.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
Chrysanthemum appears in cocktail history in the early 1900s. It is often associated with classic cocktail books from the same period. Several modern recipes use dry vermouth, Bénédictine, and a few dashes of absinthe, often garnished with an orange twist.
Ingredients
6.6 cl dry vermouth
3 cl Bénédictine
2 dashes absinthe
Orange twist for garnish
Ice for stirring
Instructions (mise en place)
Mise en place: Chill the cocktail glass. Gather a mixing glass, bar spoon, strainer, measuring cup, ice, and orange peel.
Add dry vermouth, Bénédictine, and absinthe to the mixing glass.
Fill the mixing glass well with ice.
Stir until the drink is cold and slightly diluted.
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink.
Garnish with an orange twist.
Flavor Profile
Light, aromatic, and herbal.
Dry vermouth provides the body of the drink.
Bénédictine adds sweetness, spice, and herbal notes.
The absinthe gives a slight anise flavor but does not overpower.
The orange peel enhances the aroma and makes the drink fresher.
Glass Type, Ice, and Garnish
Glass Type: Cocktail glass or coupe
Ice: Stirred with ice, served without ice
Garnish: Orange twist
Chrysanthemum is a cocktail for those who enjoy stirred drinks with a distinct aromatic character. It is not spirit-driven in the same way as many classic cocktails. Here, dry vermouth is the main base, while Bénédictine provides sweetness, spice, and herbal character.
Absinthe is used in a small amount. It should not make the drink heavy or dominant. In this drink, it acts more as a subtle flavor enhancer. It adds anise and depth without making the entire glass taste like licorice.
The orange twist is important. The oils from the peel provide freshness and balance the drink on the nose. It pairs well with both the vermouth and Bénédictine.
This is a drink that should be served cold, in a chilled cocktail glass or coupe. It is best suited as an aperitif or as a relaxed drink before a meal.
Photos
Note: Information may contain errors. Always verify important facts yourself.
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