When April showers lead to May flowers, the days start to warm up and the nights get a little stickier. Schools are starting to let out, vacations are beginning, and wardrobes are shifting to suit the weather. There is something sensual about this time of year. Seeing a bit more flesh and experiencing the sultry evenings really set a tone for the season. We eat a little later, or maybe a little lighter, and our drinks of choice lighten up. I know I look for something cool and a little sweet — but not too sweet. Something I can sip slowly that doesn’t fill me up. With bikini season in full swing, it’s time to set those beers aside and pick up a sexy martini.

The blending of tropical and botanical flavors is a great way to lighten up your martini and add a little smooth sweetness. The French are known for their sensuality, and their OR-G vodka liqueur is just that. Blending flavors like persimmon, mango and lime with premium French vodka produces something that is refreshingly supple. In this cocktail, Garden of Eden, the sweetness of the OR-G is mellowed by the tart botanical richness of Hum liqueur and brightened with a bit of sparkling wine. The sweet yet tart martini lingers on the palate and seduces you in.

We ran this martini as a feature at work and it was a huge staff favorite! They had no trouble selling it to their guests. Plus, with such a fun name & ingredients, it made for great table conversation!

Garden of Eden

1¼ ounces OR-G vodka liqueur
¾ ounce St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur
½ ounce Hum liqueur
2 ounces (approx.) dry sparkling wine
Orchid, for garnish

In a shaker tin with ice, add your OR-G, St. Germain and Hum. Shake until well chilled and strain into a chilled martini glass. Top with a nice dry sparkling wine of your choice and garnish with a lovely orchid.