Lollypop

Sometimes I'm just in the mood for a liqueur cocktail--one that is very strong and complex, anyway! The Lollypop is no weak girl drink. The flavors, by themselves, are harsh and off-putting. There's the extreme herbal and citrus zest flavors of Chartreuse mated with the funky black cherry distillate (that's similar to mezcal) in the kirschwasser. Then bitter and sweet orange of triple sec and maraschino liqueur send this drink over the top.

What happens is remarkable: the flavors are so well balanced. No one overwhelms and you move from one pleasant experience to another with anticipation. My gut tells me that this is the doing of the triple sec. As a much derided liqueur, triple sec doesn't get the credit it is due for taming harsher flavors in drinks. No wonder it is present in Margaritas as well as drinks like the Chapel Hill and  Champ Elysees. Gin, bourbon and tequila have some funky edginess that triple sec manages to tame nicely.

• 1 oz. green Chartreuse
• 1 oz. kirschwasser
• 1 oz. triple sec
• 1 tsp. maraschino liqueur

Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.