Introduction
The Flannel Shirt cocktail is a warm and inviting blend that captures the essence of autumn in a glass. With its rich combination of Scotch, fresh apple cider, and a hint of bittersweet amaro, it's a drink that promises comfort and sophistication. Created for the prestigious StarChefs Rising Star Awards in Portland, Oregon, this cocktail has quickly become a favorite among those who appreciate a complex yet approachable drink.
While the Flannel Shirt might not be as widely known as some classic cocktails, its unique flavor profile has earned it a dedicated following. The use of Averna Amaro adds a layer of herbal complexity, while the allspice dram infuses the drink with a warm, spiced aroma that perfectly complements the Scotch. It's a cocktail that feels like a cozy evening by the fireplace, making it a perfect choice for fall and winter gatherings.
One interesting tidbit about the Flannel Shirt is that it was specifically designed to highlight local ingredients and flavors, celebrating the Pacific Northwest's bounty. The cocktail's creator wanted to craft a drink that not only tasted delicious but also told a story through its ingredients, making it a true testament to the art of mixology.
Ingredients
To create the Flannel Shirt cocktail, gather these carefully selected ingredients that bring warmth and depth to each sip:
- 1.75 oz Scotch: Opt for a Scotch with a smoky character to balance the sweetness of the cider.
- 1.5 oz Fresh Apple Cider: Freshly pressed apple cider is essential for a crisp and authentic apple flavor.
- 0.5 oz Averna Amaro: Averna Amaro provides an herbal, bittersweet note that enhances the cocktail's complexity.
- 0.25 oz Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds just the right amount of acidity to brighten the drink.
- 1 tsp 2:1 Demerara Syrup: This rich syrup adds depth and a hint of caramel sweetness.
- 0.5 tsp Allspice Dram: Allspice dram introduces a warm, spiced aroma that pairs beautifully with Scotch.
- 2 dashes Bitters: A couple of dashes bring balance and enhance the flavors.
Instructions
Follow these steps to mix a Flannel Shirt cocktail that rivals any bartender's creation:
- Combine the Scotch, apple cider, Averna amaro, lemon juice, Demerara syrup, St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram, and bitters in a cocktail shaker or mixing glass.
- Shake with ice cubes and strain over the old-fashioned glass filled with cracked ice.
- Twist the peel over the surface of the cocktail and drop in the drink to serve.
Tips
- Use a quality Scotch that you enjoy on its own, as its flavor will be prominent in the cocktail.
- Chill your old-fashioned glass before serving to keep the cocktail cold longer.
- Adjust the amount of Demerara syrup to suit your sweetness preference.
- For a more pronounced spice, increase the allspice dram slightly.
Conclusion
The Flannel Shirt cocktail is a delightful way to enjoy the rich flavors of Scotch and apple cider, wrapped in the warm embrace of spices and herbal notes. It's a drink that invites you to slow down and savor each sip, perfect for a quiet evening or a festive gathering.
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Flannel Shirt recipe adapted from The Bar Book: Elements of Cocktail Technique by Jeffrey Morgenthaler.
