Say “bonjour” to continental sophistication with this quick and easy recipe for refreshing, vodka-laced raspberry flavors!
I am a shameless Francophile. I studied French in college, did a semester abroad in a small village at the foot of the French Alps, and have been known to drop more than a few bon mots in random conversations. So it’s no surprise that I’m a big fan of French cuisine. My ideal meal would include coq au vin and a side of pommes Lyonnaise, followed by a green salad and a plate of fromages Français.
And I’d definitely finish with a French martini—even though this cocktail is actually an American creation. Renowned New York bartender Keith McNally created the drink in the 1980s, and its popularity soared after appearing on the menu at the romantic SoHo restaurant, Balthazar. The drink’s vivid color and sweetly smooth flavor profile quickly gained an avid following.
This French martini recipe emulates the stylish sophistication of that original creation. The drink’s claim to Frenchness is its most pedigreed ingredient: Chambord. It’s the raison d’être behind the lovely lavender hue and deep raspberry flavor of this cocktail. Paired with vodka for clean alcohol notes and pineapple juice for refreshing sweetness, the French liqueur elevates each sip with elegance and refinement.
Be sure to chill your martini glasses ahead of time—and resist the urge to sub in a coupe glass. The sleek geometry and tall stem of the glassware are defining hallmarks of the martini. Your friends can clink them together and toast à votre santé (to your health)!
The royal lineage of Chambord
If a liqueur could be king, it would be Chambord. This luxurious black raspberry liqueur was inspired by a similar aperitif said to have been crafted for King Louis XIV—aka “the Sun King” and great-grandaddy to the country’s final monarch, Louis XVI—during his visits to the Château de Chambord in the Loire Valley. Its recipe combines ripe red and black raspberries, Madagascar vanilla, Moroccan citrus peel, honey, and cognac, resulting in a smooth, aromatic liqueur with a rich depth of flavor.
The liqueur’s distinctive spherical bottle evokes its historical ties to the grandeur of French royalty. Including elements reminiscent of a golden crown or jeweled orb, its design calls to mind the globus cruciger, a medieval symbol of monarchic authority. Both the ornate presentation and the rich flavors of the liqueur continue centuries-old traditions of elegance and refinement, giving Chambord a place of honor not only on the bar shelf but also in cocktail culture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover French martinis—sans ice and garnish—in a well-sealed glass jar or bottle in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy, stir well or shake with fresh ice, strain, and serve. You can also freeze this cocktail for up to 3 weeks. Let it freeze solid in ice cube trays, then transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. When you’re ready to serve, thaw in the fridge for a few hours or simply blend the cubes with fresh pineapple juice for a slushy variation.
Serving suggestions
Serve your French martinis alongside some of my favorite French dishes. Start with French Onion Soup, then move on to Coq Au Vin and a side of Lyonnaise Potatoes. If you prefer a sweet dessert over a cheese plate, consider this luxurious Pots De Crème recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces vodka
- 1/2 ounce Chambord raspberry liqueur
- 1 ounce pineapple juice
- Fresh raspberries optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Add the vodka, Chambord, and pineapple juice to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously until well chilled, about 15–20 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a raspberry or two, if desired, and serve immediately.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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