Everything You Need to Know About the French Martini
The French Martini is a chic, fruit-forward cocktail that emerged in the late 1980s, famously popularized by restaurateur Keith McNally in New York City. It's believed to have been created at one of his bars before appearing on the menu of his hugely popular SoHo brasserie, Balthazar, when it opened in 1996. Despite its name, it's not a traditional Vodka Martini as it contains no vermouth; the "French" moniker comes from its key ingredient, Chambord, a black raspberry liqueur from France. Its smooth, sweet-tart taste and appealing pink hue quickly made it a star of the modern cocktail revival and a favorite for those seeking an elegant, accessible drink.