Sauge des Vergers
flavorcamp
January 15, 2025
A sophisticated twist on a Julep, this cocktail bridges the warmth of spiced apple with the herbal depth of sage, all underpinned by the rich character of Hennessy VS. Inspired by the flavors of fall, it layers complexity without losing its refreshing appeal. The French name nods to Cognac’s heritage, elevating this aromatic, seasonal sipper.
Recipe: Spencer Powell (Vancouver, BC)
Photo: Reece Sims
Cocktail Flavor Camps
The inspiration behind this cocktail, as explained by cocktail educator Spencer Powell, “I wanted a focused drink that is both deep & refreshing, and a Mint Julep comes to mind as an inspiration. Spiced apple is inspired by the Fall season, and sage pairs lovely with the apple and spice, as I know from experience with previously creating a ginger, apple, sage & whiskey cocktail I created for a menu years ago. I chose a French name as Cognac is from France.“
Sauge des Vergers (Sage of the Orchards)
Difficulty: EasyFlavor Camps: Fruity, Sweet, Boozy
Ingredients
1.5 oz Hennessy VS
0.5 oz Spiced Apple Tea Syrup*
4 to 5 Sage Leaves
Garnish: Apple Fan & Sage
Directions
- Starting with an empty double rocks glass, place 4~5 sage leaves in it and muddle to begin releasing the sage's flavor and aroma.
- Next, add 1.5 oz of Hennessy VS & 0.5 oz of spiced apple syrup into the glass, and then top up the glass with crushed ice
- Stir for ~20 seconds, and then top up with more crushed ice until nearly overflowing.
- Garnish the cocktail with a sprig of sage leaves & thinly cut apple slices.
Notes
- *Spiced Apple Syrup - Preparation time approx. ~30 minutes; makes 8 oz. (enough for 16 cocktails):
Add 2 cups of apple juice to a pot on High heat and boil until reduced by half. Reduce heat to Low and add in 4 "Maple Apple Cider" teabags by Stash Tea (readily available in grocery stores & Amazon; can be substituted for Chai tea if necessary, however), and leave to steep on Low heat for 15 minutes.
Next, remove the teabags and add in 6 tbsp of yellow sugar (brown sugar or even regular white sugar is perfectly OK as a substitute if necessary); Stir over heat until the sugar is dissolved, then remove from heat to cool and transfer it to a bottle or food safe container of your choice.
