Bob Cook

This recipe has the virtue of going light on the creme de violette (personally, I could go even lighter). Some of the comments suggest adding a little simple syrup, but the maraschino liqueur makes it sweet enough for me. Also, using lime juice instead of lemon juice is an interesting variation.

I just made this drink, just following the directions here, and I enjoyed it.

I just made this drink, using the Amer Picon substitute from the Truffles on the Rocks YouTube channel (which has worked for me in the Brooklyn), and I enjoyed it. I would definitely make it again and serve it to guests.

This is a Sweet Martini with Amer Picon and Angostura orange bitters as a bittering agent, and it's an improvement on the traditional Sweet Martini. (Angostura orange bitters are gentian-based, so I wouldn't use a substitute where this brand is specified, even though I usually use Regan's in Martinis. The Truffles on the Rocks Amer Picon substitute specifies Angostura orange bitters.)

I just tried this new version of the Vieux Carré recipe, and I like it a lot. It tasted great, and (although maybe this shouldn't be a consideration) it fit perfectly in the glass I used for it. I think this will be the version of this classic drink that I default to.