Old Roots
This eclectic recipe is the brainchild of my buddy @rogzor during one of our typical “hangout & mix up something interesting” nights. The premise came about when we were discussing potential uses for jalapeño shochu. Michael proposed treating it like a vermouth, and adding syrup to make it more like a sweet vermouth for a very… unusual Manhattan riff.
The agave-centric base ties in nicely with the jalapeño, mole, and root beer flavors. The chocolate mint locks in well too and helps brighten up an otherwise dark flavor profile. The rye whiskey brings some needed oak notes to solidify the drink as a Manhatten, and it’s subtle spice notes fit really well. This one is hard to describe but it’s really interesting and has some great flavors coming together.
Recipe
1.25oz Añejo tequila (@dulcevidatequila)
0.75oz Rye whiskey (@redwoodempirewhiskey, gifted)
0.75oz Jalapeño shochu (see post from 3/6/23)
1tsp root beer syrup (see post from 4/24/23)
0.25oz chocolate mint syrup (see post from 4/10/23)
8 dashes mole bitters (@dashfirebitters)
Mezcal rinse
Rinse glass with mezcal. Stir ingredients until chilled and strain into coupe. Express & discard orange twist. Serve with bittersweet chocolate. Cheers!!
