... I follow the bartender's recommendation and order the cocktail of the day. Without glancing at the cocktail menu, I curiously and expectantly watch as the bartender fills her shaker with fresh seawater, adds a splash of orange blossom syrup and a pinch of ground pepper, seals the shaker, and starts to shake. She then pours the frothy mixture with a hiss into a glass filled with ice cubes, garnishes the drink with a slice of bergamot and a small piece of driftwood. She slides the glass across the bar to me with the words: "Here you go, your Salty Ocean Bouquet!". Frowning, I smell the concoction and hear myself say: "Thanks, Jo! If it's only half as good as it smells, then I'll take a whole bottle!".
Of course, I took a bottle with me, because this creation is damn good. The intense, salty accord paired with orange blossom is incredibly beautiful. The sillage unexpectedly reaches over 2 meters in the first 2-3 hours. The longevity is over 8-9 hours. Heart, what more do you want? Especially for this amazing price!
That my description has no potential for a cult drink in real life is clear to me (don't worry, I'm doing well). So why this nonsense? Well, this scent makes my mouth water without containing a single gourmand note. Okay, salt is the spice of life and pepper kind of is too. But usually, the thought of salt and pepper leaves me rather dry-mouthed than producing any saliva.
Long story short: Since my beach bar visit, I have an insatiable thirst for Salty Ocean Bouquet. So "Cheers"! I'm treating myself to another one right away ;)
