The Cherry On Top is not just a cocktail; it's a celebration of refinement and balance. Inspired by the classic Blood and Sand, this version elevates the original with a meticulous selection of ingredients, centered around the robust and fruit-forward Courage & Conviction Cuvée Cask. It's a drink designed for those moments that call for something truly special.

 

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Courage & Conviction Cuvée Cask: A rich and vibrant whisky with notes of tart cherry and blood orange.
• 0.75 oz Dark Cherry Syrup: Homemade to ensure the deepest, most luscious cherry flavors.
• 0.5 oz Don Ciccio & Figli Mandarinetto: Adds a bright citrus contrast.
• 0.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice: For a fresh burst of acidity.
• 1 dash Bittercube Cherry Vanilla Bitters: Introduces a subtle hint of vanilla and deepens the cherry notes.
• Garnish: A fresh orange slice and a Jack Rudy Bourbon Cocktail Cherry for the perfect finishing touches.
• Ice: None - Served Up

 

Glassware: Stemmed Cocktail GlassInstructions:

1. Craft with Passion: Start by combining the Courage & Conviction Cuvée Cask, dark cherry syrup, Mandarinetto, lemon juice, and cherry vanilla bitters in a shaker tin.
2. Shake to Blend: Add ice and give it a vigorous shake, not just to cool but to marry the flavors into a cohesive whole.
3. Serve with Elegance: Double strain the mixture into a stemmed cocktail glass, ensuring a smooth, refined pour.
4. Garnish with Care: Adorn the cocktail with an orange slice and a bourbon cocktail cherry, adding both color and a burst of additional flavor.

 

Dark Cherry Syrup (1:1):

Ingredients:

• 200g White Granulated Sugar
• 200g Water
• 12 oz Frozen Dark Cherries
• Yield: ~ 1.5 cups

Preparation:

• Simmer sugar, water, and dark cherries until the flavors fuse, then mash and strain for a syrup that’s rich in cherry essence.

 

Flavor Notes:

Cherry On Top is a symphony of flavors, with the whisky's tart cherry and blood orange notes serving as the perfect foundation. The dark cherry syrup and Mandarinetto add depth and complexity, while the cherry vanilla bitters tie everything together with a whisper of vanilla. This cocktail is a testament to the power of thoughtful ingredient selection and the art of balance.

 

A Toast to Sophistication:

Elevate your next gathering or indulge in a moment of solitude with the Cherry On Top. It's a drink that speaks of craftsmanship and the joy of discovery, a perfect homage to the enduring legacy of the Blood and Sand, reimagined for the modern palate.