la.foodblogging

The first time we went to Lucques (several months ago, after a movie) we ate at the bar. We sat right in the corner, which was squeezy but okay, and afforded us the opportunity to people-watch, rather than having our backs to the room. Right there is a blackboard with their bartender’s cocktail of the day. That night it was a “Butterfly Wing” which, as explained and demonstrated to us, is a stunning martini made from Old Raj Gin – I was just about to post the rest of the ingredients, but perhaps I shouldn’t do that…

Well, now we are completely spoiled. Cadenhead’s 110 Proof Old Raj Gin is a British-made gin that charges up the nostrils with juniper aromas as the high notes. The flavour is big and extra dry on your palate.

This exceptional gin is infused with saffron, which gives it its pale, straw-coloured hue and a delicate flavour. It is also quite expensive (generally around $72 for a 750 ml bottle here in LA), but it is a truly fantastic spirit. Old Raj is bottled at two strengths, 46% ABV (their red label) and 55% ABV (the blue label).

We have managed to duplicate the martini and I have since been making gin and tonics (with fresh lime juice) at home with it, even though I probably should reserve it for martinis and stick to our usual Bombay Sapphire for the mixed drinks… I’ve found the best price for it is at either Wally’s Wines or BevMo (around $62.00). We’re hoping it’ll take off in popularity and then, with a bit of luck, the price may come down.

Anyway, I’m afraid I don’t know the name of the talented bartender at Lucques, but this cocktail seems to be his specialty. He’s a youngish, white guy with very short brown hair and a pleasant face.

Anyone who wants to try a distinctly different martini would be well advised to get their tastebuds over to Lucques. You will not be disappointed.

Lucques
8474 Melrose Ave
West Hollywood, CA 90069
323 655 6277
Cross Street: La Cienega Boulevard

By MaxMillion (see more of her posts). Max Million is the nom de 'net of Pauline Adamek. Born in Sydney, Australia, Pauline has lived in Los Angeles for the past ten years and finds it agrees with her. She has been reviewing films and filing celebrity-based interview articles since 1991, and has filed stories from various international film festivals, including Cannes, Venice, Berlin, Toronto and Sundance. She is completing a family cookbook and also writes novels for 8-12 year olds.