In English, we use the French phrase "l'espirit de l'escalier" ("staircase wit") to describe the feeling of thinking of the perfect reply just a bit too late. The phrase comes from the philosopher Denis Diderot, a reserved gentleman who was overwhelmed by an argument with statesman Jacques Necker and was only able to think clearly when he reached the bottom of the stairs.
In anticipation of Whisky Live Paris this weekend, we visited a favorite local French restaurant, Bistro Campagne, and created a French-inspired cocktail simple enough to recreate at home--whether you're in Paris or Chicago.
Salute!
