Royal Cup

Makes 1 serving

A Royal Cup, just as the name implies, is a very elegant drink for a grand celebration, such as New Year's. Use the very best champagne you can afford—after all, we're approaching the New Millennium! Oh, and by the way, I must tell you about Peychaud bitters. The story goes that in 1793, when wealthy plantation owners were forced out of San Domingo because of a slave uprising, some were able to flee with their precious belongings, while others had nothing but the liquid tonic called bitters.

Evidently the recipe had been a family secret for years. The gentleman, who found his way to New Orleans, was one Antonine Amédée Peychaud, who had been educated as an apothecary. The Bitters made from the secret recipe were dispensed to his patrons to cure all sorts of maladies. They also gave an added zest to brandy he served to his friends. Well, the rest is history, as we say. His concoction became quite popular and a dash or two of it was added to French brandy served at the local watering holes, then called coffee houses. A Votre Santé!

1/2 ounce Grand Marnier
3 drops Peychaud bitters
4 ounces chilled Champagne

Pour the Grand Marnier into a Champagne flute, a wine glass, or a large martini glass, add the bitters, and then slowly add the Champagne. Serve immediately.

Buy the Book!

Every Day's A Party
Louisiana Recipes for Celebrating
with Family and Friends
By Emeril Lagasse
William Morrow, October 1999
Hardback, $26.00
ISBN: 0-688-16430-7
Recipe Reprinted by permission.