Pickled Martini

Tastemaker

By Eric Cox | Feb. 16, 2019

A tiny sprig of emerald dill floats on the Pickled Martini’s pristine blanket of silky, white foam … and the daggone thing looks like some artist’s version of a winter still life. The irony of this drink, created by Sara LaDuke at Pierson’s Grille & Spirits in Harbor Springs, is that while it has a rather arctic appearance, this bracing martini actually tastes like a summer refreshment. The pale yellow potion hangs its hat on Stolichnaya vodka infused — in-house — with dill, cucumber, garlic, mustard seed, and black peppercorns. After a good shake, a splash of pickle juice helps compound all the colliding flavors. The dill and garlic hold sway over the subtler cucumber and mustard notes, but they’re not completely drowned out; with their all their green leanings, the Pickled Martini’s bold flavors are undeniably summer-tinged. LaDuke confided that her mother’s pickle-making and canning inspired the concoction, which will set you back 10 bucks. It’s worth it, though — especially in this climate. Anything that can refresh you while providing a mental glimpse of summer is worth its weight in grass clippings. So go get a mouthful of summer and leave your winter laments at home. 130 E. State St., (231) 526-2967, www.piersonsgrille.com.