Sweet & savoury Gin cocktail with pickle juice

Crafted for curious palates and bold explorers, this electrifying cocktail blends the refined bitterness of matcha with the bright botanicals of Québec gin and a squeeze of fresh lime. A few drops of UMAM fish sauce act as the unexpected secret: a subtle saline depth that enhances every note and creates perfect harmony with the tangy kick of pickle juice. Textured, daring, and undeniably unique, this cocktail proves that the umami of the St. Lawrence doesn’t stop in the kitchen, it belongs behind the bar, too.

Serves: 1

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Quebec gin
  
• ¾ oz lime juice (or another citrus of your choice)
  
• ½ oz pickle juice (from your favourite jar of pickles)
  
• A few drops of UMAM fish sauce
  
• ¼ tsp matcha powder
  
• 2 tbsp hot water (to dissolve the matcha)
  
• Simple syrup or honey, to taste (optional)
  
• 2 to 3 oz sparkling water
  
• Garnish: pickle or citrus slice
  
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl or directly in the shaker, combine the matcha powder with the hot water. Whisk vigorously until smooth and free of lumps.
   
2. Add the gin, lime juice, pickle juice, UMAM fish sauce, and simple syrup or honey (if using) to the shaker.
   
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds. The goal is a well-chilled cocktail with the matcha fully emulsified.
   
4. Fill a glass with fresh ice. Strain the mixture into the glass.
   
5. Top gently with sparkling water to lengthen the cocktail, according to your preference.
   
6. Garnish with a pickle or citrus slice.
   

Note: The quality of the matcha will directly affect the flavour and intensity of the cocktail.