Maximilian Affair

The Maximilian Affair is a captivating modern classic that brilliantly showcases the versatility of mezcal. It expertly combines the smoky notes of the agave spirit with the sweet, floral character of St-Germain elderflower liqueur. The addition of Punt e Mes provides a rich, bittersweet backbone, while fresh lemon juice brightens the entire profile, creating a perfectly balanced and memorable drinking experience.
Maximilian Affair

Preparation

Preparation time: 4 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

The Maximilian Affair is categorized as a modern classic cocktail. It fits within the sour family due to its use of citrus juice, but its complex, spirit-forward nature also allows it to function as a sophisticated aperitif.

Serving

Served chilled and straight up in a coupe or Nick & Nora glass, this is a spirit-forward cocktail with a moderate alcohol content and a refined presentation.
Serving size
Approximately 100 ml / 3.5 oz (before dilution)
Alcohol content
Approximately 22-26% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Coupe
Glass treatment
Chilled

Backstory

Created around 2007 by bartender Misty Kalker at The Randolph at Broome in New York City. The cocktail is named for Maximilian I, the Austrian archduke who was installed as the Emperor of Mexico by Napoleon III in the 1860s. This historical nod cleverly connects the European ingredients (St-Germain, Punt e Mes) with the Mexican spirit (mezcal) in the glass.
Origin
United States, New York City, circa 2007.

Maximilian Affair

The drink is consistently known by its original name, Maximilian Affair, and does not have any widely recognized alternative names or aliases.
Original name
Maximilian Affair

Characteristics overview

This drink presents a complex balance of smoky, floral, and bittersweet notes with a refreshing citrus aroma. It has a smooth, silky texture and a lingering smoky aftertaste, suitable for enjoyment any time of year.
Flavor
Smoky, Floral, Bittersweet, Herbal, Tart, Citrusy
Aroma
Smoky Agave, Elderflower, Lemon Zest, Botanical
Taste balance
Complex, Balanced, Sweet, Sour, Bitter
Aftertaste
Lingering, Smoky, Slightly Sweet, Herbal
Fizziness
Still
Color appearance
Pale Straw, Light Gold, Clear
Texture
Silky, Smooth
Seasonality
Refreshing, Year-round

Flavor intensity & Experience

The flavor is moderately intense, presenting a balanced interplay of sweetness, sourness, and a noticeable smokiness from the mezcal. It is not creamy or carbonated, with a solid mid-range alcohol presence.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

This cocktail requires four key liquid ingredients: smoky mezcal as the base, floral St-Germain liqueur, bittersweet Punt e Mes vermouth, and fresh lemon juice for acidity.
  • Mezcal45 ml / 1.5 oz
    A good quality, not overly smoky mezcal like Del Maguey Vida or similar works well.
  • St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur22.5 ml / 0.75 oz
    This provides the key floral sweetness to balance the other ingredients.
  • Punt e Mes15 ml / 0.5 oz
    An Italian bittersweet vermouth. If unavailable, another high-quality sweet vermouth plus a dash of Angostura bitters can be substituted.
  • Fresh Lemon Juice15 ml / 0.5 oz
    Freshly squeezed is essential for brightness and balance.

Ice type

  • Cubed

Mixing equipments

You will need a standard cocktail shaking set, including a shaker, a jigger for measuring, a citrus press, and a strainer to prepare this drink properly.
  • Cocktail shaker for chilling and diluting the ingredients.
  • Jigger or measuring tool for accurate pours.
  • Strainer (Hawthorne and fine-mesh) for a smooth, ice-free drink.
  • Citrus juicer for fresh lemon juice.

Instructions

Preparation involves chilling a glass, shaking all liquid ingredients vigorously with ice, and then double-straining the mixture into the prepared glass. The final touch is garnishing with an expressed lemon twist.
1. Chill your coupe or Nick & Nora glass by filling it with ice and water or placing it in the freezer for a few minutes.
2. Add the mezcal, St-Germain, Punt e Mes, and fresh lemon juice to a cocktail shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with cubed ice until it is about two-thirds full.
4. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 12-15 seconds until the outside of the shaker is well-chilled and frosted.
5. Discard the ice from your chilled glass.
6. Double-strain the cocktail from the shaker into the chilled glass to remove any ice shards or citrus pulp.
7. Take a fresh lemon peel, hold it over the surface of the drink, and twist it to express its aromatic oils. Drop the peel into the glass as a garnish.

Garnishing

A simple lemon twist is the classic garnish, providing an aromatic citrus essence that complements the drink's flavors and brightens its presentation.
  • Lemon twist, expressed over the drink to release oils and then placed in the glass.

Dietary Information

This cocktail is generally suitable for various dietary needs as it is vegan, vegetarian, and free from common allergens like dairy, eggs, gluten, nuts, and soy.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

This cocktail has a moderate calorie and sugar content, derived primarily from the St-Germain liqueur and Punt e Mes vermouth.
Calories
Approximately 190-220 kcal / 795-920 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Approximately 12-15 grams
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Approximately 11-14 grams
Sugar level

Occasions

This cocktail is perfect for a sophisticated cocktail hour or as an aperitif before a meal. Its complex flavor profile makes it a great conversation starter at social gatherings and intimate parties.
  • Cocktail Hour
  • Pre-Dinner Drink
  • Sophisticated Gatherings

Pairing suggestions

The Maximilian Affair pairs excellently with bold and savory flavors. Consider serving it with spicy appetizers, sharp cheeses, or dishes with a hint of smoke to complement the mezcal's unique character.
  • Spicy Mexican appetizers like shrimp aguachile.
  • Sharp cheeses and charcuterie boards.
  • Grilled fish tacos or carnitas.
  • Smoked almonds or salty snacks.

Maximilian Affair: A Royal Union of Smoke and Flowers

The Maximilian Affair is a perfectly constructed modern classic that balances smoky, floral, sweet, and sour elements. Created by Misty Kalker, its name cleverly references Mexican history, mirroring the blend of European and Mexican ingredients in the glass. It is a sophisticated, spirit-forward cocktail that is both refreshing and complex, making it a favorite among those who appreciate nuanced flavors. This drink serves as an excellent and accessible introduction to the world of mezcal cocktails beyond the margarita.

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