Introduction
As the chill of winter sets in, there's nothing quite like a cocktail that captures the essence of the season. Enter the Winter Holidays cocktail—a smoky, earthy, and citrusy concoction that is sure to warm your spirits and impress your friends. This cocktail brings together the robust flavors of Scotch with the herbal complexity of Cynar, balanced by a touch of lemon and a hint of grapefruit bitters.
The Winter Holidays cocktail is a modern creation, designed to evoke the cozy, festive atmosphere of the holiday season. Its unique blend of ingredients makes it stand out, offering a sophisticated yet approachable drink that's perfect for gatherings or quiet nights by the fire.
Fun fact: Cynar, one of the key ingredients, is an Italian bitter liqueur made from artichokes and other herbs. Its intriguing flavor profile adds depth and complexity to the Winter Holidays cocktail, making it a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.
Ingredients
To craft the Winter Holidays cocktail, you'll need the following ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the cocktail's distinctive flavor profile.
- 2 oz Scotch: Choose a Scotch with a smoky profile to enhance the cocktail's depth and warmth.
- 0.75 oz Cynar: Cynar adds an earthy, herbal complexity that complements the Scotch beautifully.
- 0.25 oz Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice provides a bright, zesty contrast to the rich, smoky flavors.
- 0.25 oz Simple Syrup: Simple syrup adds a touch of sweetness to balance the cocktail's bitter and sour notes.
- 1 dash Grapefruit Bitters: Grapefruit bitters introduce a subtle citrus aroma and flavor, enhancing the drink's overall complexity.
- 0.5 oz Club Soda: A splash of club soda gives the cocktail a refreshing effervescence.
- 1 Grapefruit Peel: The grapefruit peel adds a fragrant citrus twist, perfect for garnishing and enhancing the cocktail's aroma.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create the perfect Winter Holidays cocktail, ensuring a delightful balance of flavors and a stunning presentation.
- Combine all ingredients except club soda in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Top with club soda and stir briefly.
- Garnish with grapefruit peel, spritzed skin side down over the drink.
Tips
- Use a high-quality Scotch with a strong smoky character to achieve the best flavor.
- For a more intense herbal note, consider increasing the amount of Cynar slightly.
- Always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, most authentic flavor.
- Gently spritz the grapefruit peel over the drink to release its essential oils, enhancing the aroma.
- Serve the cocktail immediately after adding the club soda to retain its refreshing bubbles.
Conclusion
The Winter Holidays cocktail is the perfect way to celebrate the season with friends and family. Its smoky, earthy, and citrusy notes create a harmonious blend that is both comforting and intriguing. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cocktail is sure to impress.
Looking to explore more unique and delicious cocktail recipes? Download the BarBot app today. With BarBot, you can discover a world of cocktails, log your tasting experiences, and even share your creations with friends. Make your holiday season even more special with BarBot by your side. Cheers to new adventures and unforgettable flavors!
Winter Holidays recipe adapted from Be Your Own Bartender by Carey Jones, John McCarthy and J. Kenji López-Alt.
