An eclectic mix of brands combine in our vintage cocktail resulting in a complicated, slightly sweet taste with hints of chocolate.
To coordinate with my party theme recalling formal balls of the past, I developed this cocktail with my friend David Phillips, and included an herb-filled, aromatized wine and a scotch whiskey, both developed in the late 1800s. (See more details on this fun party theme, in which all the food comes in the shape of a ball.)
DETAILS ON THE INGREDIENTS:
[1] Barolo Chinato Cocchi The idea for the signature cocktail started with the taste of this fortified aromatized wine—round and rich, with the deep essence of Barolo. Famous since 1891, Barolo Chinato Cocchi is Barolo infused with quinine bark, rhubarb, ginger, cardamom, cocoa, and a variety of other aromatic spices. Served on its own, it makes a fine after-dinner sip too. About $45. alpenz.com
[2] David Phillips, a man who really knows his stuff, seen at the Haus Alpenz tasting at All’Onda. David was very instrumental in developing the signature cocktail this month. Check out Haus Alpenz’s entire portfolio on their website, for some very interesting spirit finds: alpenz.com
[3] The Famous Grouse Since 1896 this blended whisky boasts a unique fusion of the finest single malts and the best grain whiskies. Currently crafted at the oldest working distillery in Scotland, the blending occurs over the space of a few months, allowing each element of the whisky to finely tune. This process is referred to as ‘marrying’ and means harsh filtration is unnecessary. The result: a whisky that’s clear and bright, but retains some of the mysterious notes and smooth round flavor that filtration can take away. Truly joyful to experience. The flavors of this whisky, which has just a hint of smokiness, perfectly balances the other ingredients in this cocktail, and elevates the whole. About $30 for 1 liter. thefamousgrouse.com
[4] Rothman & Winter Orchard Pear Liqueur combines juice from Williams Pears and eau-de-vie produced from the same fruit from orchards in both South Tirol and the Danube Valley. Very popular in the Alps apres-ski, the Orchard Pear Liqueur adds a delicate sweetness and aroma to the signature cocktail. About $20. alpenz.com
[5] Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Bitters A family business since 1864, these chocolate bitters added the crowning touch, and a tiny bit more complexity to the cocktail. About $10. feebrothers.com
[6] Malted Milk Balls Match an old-time candy with this vintage cocktail for extra chocolate notes. See shopping details in Ingredients post.
We've got more recipes for hosting a funky ball in 10 Black Tie
