Nikolashka Cocktail Recipe

The Nikolashka cocktail is a classic Russian drink, named after Tsar Nicholas II. It is said to have been his favorite cocktail and was often served at royal gatherings and events. The drink is known for its unique combination of flavors and its elegant presentation.

• The cocktail is believed to have been created in the late 19th century
• It was popular among the Russian aristocracy and high society
• The drink is often associated with celebrations and special occasions

The Nikolashka cocktail has a complex and sophisticated taste, combining sweet, sour, and bitter flavors. It is a well-balanced drink with a smooth, velvety texture and a warming sensation from the cognac.

• The name 'Nikolashka' is a diminutive form of 'Nicholas' in Russian
• The cocktail is traditionally served in a chilled coupe glass
• The lemon and sugar garnish is meant to be eaten after finishing the drink, as a palate cleanser

1. Chill a coupe glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes
2. Pour 2oz of cognac into a mixing glass
3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled
4. Strain the cognac into the chilled coupe glass
5. Cut a thin slice of lemon and remove the peel, leaving only the pulp
6. Dip one side of the lemon slice into white sugar
7. Float the sugared lemon slice on top of the cognac in the glass
8. Serve immediately and instruct the drinker to eat the lemon slice after finishing the cocktail

• Use high-quality cognac for the best flavor
• Chill the glass well before serving to enhance the taste
• Eat the lemon slice after finishing the drink for a unique taste experience

Appetizers

• Cheese platters: A mix of nutty and aged cheeses complements the rich flavor of the cognac.
• Dark chocolate: The bitterness can be a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the sugar and the citrus note of lemon.
• Smoked salmon: The richness of smoked fish often pairs well with the subtle botanicals in the cognac.

Main Courses

• Grilled steak: Bold meat flavors work well with the intensity of a good cognac.
• Roast duck: The high fat content and savory taste will play nicely with the cocktail's lemon and sugar notes.

Desserts

• Creme Brulee: The burnt sugar on top matches the caramel notes of the cognac while the creaminess balances the acidity of the lemon.
• Tarte Tatin: The caramelized sweetness of the apples pairs pleasantly with the smoothness of the cognac.

• Cognac: Can be replaced with Brandy
• White sugar: Can be replaced with Brown sugar or Honey
• Lemon: Can be replaced with Lime

Espresso Nikolashka

• Add a 1/2 oz of espresso to the cognac before stirring with ice. This will create a coffee-infused concoction that'll wake you up before it tucks you in. The warmth of the coffee complements the depth of the cognac, while the sugar-lemon garnish now nods towards your favorite breakfast.

Spiced Lemon Nikolashka

• Muddle a dash of cinnamon and a clove with the lemon before laying it atop the cognac. This version will have a whisper of winter holidays and cozy fireside chats infused in each sip. The spice brings education, depth, and a hint of mystery to the party.

Honeyed Nikolashka

• Swap out white sugar for a drizzle of honey on your lemon slice. This subtle switch introduces a floral bouquet to your snifter. The viscosity of the honey will also create a lingering sweetness that'll have you reminiscing about lazy summer days.