You’ve had cocktails that have been set on fire, unveiled in a haze of dry ice smoke, served in test tubes and more gimmicks that we can list out. But have you ever seen perfume spritzed over your choice of drink? It’s not a metaphor. You’ll quite literally have an edible fragrance sprayed on your martini at Folly in Madinat Jumeirah when you order their clever Chanel No.5–inspired cocktail called Folly No.5.
Imagine James Bond and Coco Chanel were friends. Then imagine they created a cocktail to celebrate that unique friendship between the worlds of espionage and haute couture. This would be the drink they’d order.
This creative twist on the traditional Gin Martini, however, is the brainchild of mixologists at Folly, a modern European restaurant that boasts a hoard of accolades, including making it to Dubai’s first-ever Michelin Guide 2022. With a menu full of innovative drinks like Folly No.5, plus one of the city’s most beautiful rooftop bars with breathtaking views, one doesn’t have to wonder why.
Although if you’re wondering what exactly this cocktail that pays homage to the iconic perfume Chanel No.5 tastes like, let us break it down for you. Imitating the classic 100-year-old scent‘s notes of orange blossom and bergamot, this drink has a citrus base. The use of gin infused with bitter Sevilla oranges from Spain is what lends it this zesty taste. Then a splash of fragrant sherry wine bursting with the aromas of dried fruits, nuts, and oranges round it off. But the nitty gritty of cocktail ingredients aside, what really makes this a fun edible adaptation of the perfume is the presentation.
Along with the traditional green olive garnish that tops martinis, the drink is spritzed with a special “perfume” of bitter orange juice and spices. Straight from a perfume decanter resembling Chanel No.5’s clean minimalist bottle that fashionistas, from Marylin Monroe to Victoria Beckham, have adored since it debuted in 1921.
And you know what they say about imitation, right? It’s the best form of flattery. As far as this Chanel No.5-inspired cocktail is concerned, it’s also the most delicious. So on your next girls’ night out, make sure you order a round of this for stylish sips and stylish pics for the ‘gram.