Introduction
The Terrible Love cocktail is a masterful blend of mezcal, floral liqueurs, and citrus bitters, creating a drink that's both intriguing and refreshing. Created in 2013 by renowned mixologist Phil Ward, this cocktail is a testament to the innovative spirit of modern bartending. Its name might suggest heartbreak, but the taste is pure delight—perfect for those who appreciate the complexity of mezcal and the elegance of floral notes.
Phil Ward, a key figure in the cocktail renaissance, crafted the Terrible Love as part of the movement towards using mezcal in creative ways. Mezcal, known for its smoky and earthy flavor profile, pairs beautifully with the floral sweetness of St-Germain and the citrusy tang of Saveur d'Autrefois Liqueur. This cocktail is not just a drink; it's a sensory experience that showcases the versatility of its ingredients.
Interesting trivia: Mezcal, often confused with tequila, is made from a variety of agave plants, giving it a broader flavor spectrum. This diversity is what makes the Terrible Love cocktail stand out, offering a taste journey that is as complex as it is captivating.
Ingredients
To create the Terrible Love cocktail, you'll need a selection of high-quality ingredients that bring out the best in mezcal's unique flavor profile.
- 1.5 oz Chichicapa Mezcal: Chichicapa Mezcal is known for its rich, smoky flavor, adding depth and complexity to the cocktail.
- 0.75 oz Saveur d'Autrefois Liqueur: Saveur d'Autrefois Liqueur provides a citrusy and slightly bitter note, balancing the smokiness of the mezcal.
- 0.5 oz St-Germain: St-Germain adds a floral sweetness, enhancing the overall aroma and taste.
- 1 dash House Orange Bitters: House Orange Bitters offer a subtle citrus kick that complements the other ingredients.
- 1 Grapefruit Twist: A grapefruit twist not only adds a decorative touch but also imparts a refreshing citrus aroma.
Instructions
Crafting the Terrible Love cocktail requires precision and a gentle touch. Follow these steps to achieve bartender-level perfection:
- Stir all the ingredients over ice.
- Strain into an old-fashioned glass over 1 large ice cube.
- Garnish with the grapefruit twist.
Tips
- Use large ice cubes to slow down dilution and maintain the cocktail's flavor integrity.
- For a more intense grapefruit aroma, express the oils from the twist over the drink before garnishing.
- Experiment with different brands of mezcal to find the flavor profile that suits your taste best.
- Chill your stirring glass beforehand to ensure the cocktail remains cold during preparation.
Conclusion
The Terrible Love cocktail is a modern classic that showcases the artistry of mixology. Its harmonious blend of mezcal, floral, and citrus notes makes it an unforgettable experience for your palate. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this drink is sure to captivate and inspire.
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Terrible Love recipe adapted from Death & Co: Modern Classic Cocktails by David Kaplan, Nick Fauchald, and Alex Day.
