Introduction
The Howlin’ At The Moon cocktail is a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern mixology. This intriguing drink starts with genever, a juniper-flavored spirit that predates gin, and adds a touch of chocolate for a unique twist. It's an old-fashioned cocktail that combines the rich, malty profile of barrel-aged genever with the sweet, smooth notes of white crème de cacao. Perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated sip, this cocktail is a testament to the art of balancing flavors.
The history of genever dates back to the 16th century in Holland, where it was originally used for medicinal purposes. Over time, it evolved into a beloved spirit, paving the way for the creation of gin. Genever's robust and complex profile makes it an excellent base for cocktails like the Howlin’ At The Moon, which showcases its versatility.
While the classic version of this cocktail is steeped in tradition, the modern take incorporates innovative ingredients like Bittercube Cherry Bark and Vanilla Bitters, adding depth and complexity to the drink. Whether you prefer the tried-and-true or are eager to explore new flavors, the Howlin’ At The Moon is sure to captivate your palate.
Ingredients
Creating the perfect Howlin’ At The Moon cocktail requires a careful selection of ingredients. Here's what you'll need to craft both the classic and modern versions:
- 1 Lemon Twist: A twist of lemon adds brightness and a refreshing aroma.
- 2 oz Barrel-Aged Genever: Barrel-aged genever offers a rich, malty base with a hint of juniper.
- 2 tsp White Crème De Cacao: White crème de cacao brings a subtle chocolate note to the cocktail.
- 0.5 tsp Cane Sugar Syrup: Cane sugar syrup balances the bitterness with a touch of sweetness.
- 2 dashes Bittercube Cherry Bark and Vanilla Bitters: Bittercube Cherry Bark and Vanilla Bitters enhance the complexity with unique flavors.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a Howlin’ At The Moon cocktail that's both flavorful and expertly balanced:
- Muddle the lemon twist in a mixing glass.
- Add the remaining ingredients and stir over ice.
- Strain into a double rocks glass over 1 large ice cube.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
Tips
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, consider using dark crème de cacao instead of white.
- Ensure your genever is well-aged for a smoother, more nuanced taste.
- Experiment with different bitters to find your preferred flavor profile.
- Chill your mixing glass beforehand to keep the cocktail cold and refreshing.
Conclusion
The Howlin’ At The Moon cocktail is a celebration of mixology's evolution, bridging the gap between classic tradition and modern innovation. Its rich flavors and refined ingredients make it a standout choice for any cocktail enthusiast looking to expand their repertoire.
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Howlin’ At The Moon recipe adapted from Death & Co: Modern Classic Cocktails by David Kaplan, Nick Fauchald, and Alex Day.
