
National Creme de Menthe Day is on September 15 each year. It translates to “mint cream” in French. This alcoholic beverage is sweetened and flavoured with Corsican mint. It is also available in two other colours: green and colourless, also known as white. It is invigorating and can be used as a mixer for cocktails and desserts.
The background of National Creme de Menthe Day
Cream of Mint This day honours this refreshing liqueur that is an excellent addition to many cocktails and desserts. Historically, liqueurs were truly tonics and medicinal potions. This is how crème de menthe was created. Emile Giffard, a French chemist, investigated the calming and digestive properties of mint. In 1885, he developed a formulation for crème de menthe as a result.
Actually sweet, crème de menthe is made by steeping desiccated peppermint or Corsican mint leaves in grain alcohol for weeks. The verdant colour comes from the plant’s leaves. After undergoing filtration, sugar is then added. This colourless substance is referred to as white crème de menthe after being extracted. Both varieties are interchangeable in recipes due to their comparable flavour profiles. It can be used as an after-dinner refreshment, in cocktails, and in food recipes, among other things. The cocktails Stringer and Grasshopper, which originated between the 1890s and 1910s, are the most prominent applications of this liqueur.
Over time, crème de menthe has also appeared in popular culture. Notable appearances include “Friends” episode “The One with the Two Parties.” To prevent Leonard Green from encountering his wife, Phoebe offers him crème de menthe. Another appearance is made in the 12th episode of the first season of “Mad Men.” In it, members of a party who have run out of alcohol invade a supply closet and fill an entire water cooler with crème de menthe.
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Activities on National Creme de Menthe Day
Make chocolate mint
Who said crème de menthe is only suitable for use in cocktails? This liqueur’s properties enable for its addition to chocolate. On this day, you can make mint chocolate, which you can then preserve and consume at your leisure.
Host a cocktail bash.
Why make cocktails if you cannot celebrate with your friends? Throw a cocktail soiree and include the Grasshopper and the Stringer, both of which contain crème de menthe, on the menu.
Don’t worry
On National Creme de Menthe Day, relax and savour this refreshing beverage. Enjoy a peaceful evening on your veranda, balcony, or in your backyard. Sip this beverage to decompress.
5 FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT CRME DE MINT
Hercule Poirot, a prominent character in Agatha Christie’s novels, has a strong preference for flavoured beverages, crème de menthe in particular.
The green variant of crème de menthe is coloured with mint leaves or food colouring if it is prepared from mint extract.
The addition of a small quantity of mint, such as a half teaspoon, can impart a pleasant mint flavour to your regular coffee or tea.
Adding approximately a quarter teaspoon to a glass of ice and soda will enhance the flavour of the beverage.
Due to its green hue, crème de menthe is a popular St. Patrick’s Day beverage.
NATIONAL CREME DE MENTHE DAY DATES
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | September 15 | Friday |
2024 | September 15 | Sunday |
2025 | September 15 | Monday |
2026 | September 15 | Tuesday |
2027 | September 15 | Wednesday |