May Day Recipe

Who says sweet drinks cant be complex, interesting, and classy? Not us The may day, from former pdt bartender jane danger, is a sweet-tart candy in a glass, with lovely citrus and floral undertones. Typically, were not too fussy when it comes to the sparkling wine we use in a sweet drink, but the may day is an exception. Dangers recipe calls for mot imperial champagne, a pricey option, but it makes sense here anything but a really good, richly-flavored sparkling wine will get lost among the intense flavors of rhubarb bitters and the bitter citrus liqueur (danger calls for aperol). The original recipe as published in the pdt cocktail book specifically directs the reader to serve without garnish, but doesnt explain why. We hope were not violating some unspoken rule or invoking an ancient bartenders curse when we make ours with a big lemon twist; the scent of fresh lemon oil is just such an irresistible complement to the may days tart, juicy aroma.