Bittermint Bourbon

Eli Mason can't be the only fella that likes a little dimension to his cocktails. Sometimes you need more than just the basic sweet or sour flavors in a cocktail. 

That where bitter comes in. It's one of the most common flavor elements in classic cocktails and adds unbelievable dimension and complexity to bourbon, whiskey and gin drinks. 

For this cocktail, we're bringing in some bitter with Fernet Branca. Simply called "Fernet" (and pronounced fur-NET) by your local hipster, it's a complex aperitif bitter with ingredients ranging from cinnamon and chamomile to myrrh and bitter orange. Its formula is one of the world's best kept secrets. So tightly kept, in fact, that since its origin, even those who collect the spices do not know the exact quantities needed. Regardless of the secret, the taste is pungent and intense with a minty finish.

When paired with our Mint Julep Cocktail Mixer, the flavors of Fernet and bourbon are not only enhanced, but also melded, thanks in part to the addition of the gomme syrup and fresh mint in our Mint Julep mixer. 

INGREDIENTS:

2 oz. Bourbon 

.5 oz. Eli Mason Mint Julep Cocktail Mixer

.25 oz. Fernet Branca

Sprig of Fresh Mint for Garnish

Fill an old fashioned glass with ice and water to chill. Meanwhile, add a three whole ice cubes and a couple cracked cubes to a cocktail mixing glass. The extra surface area of the cracked ice will further mellow the flavors of the drink. Add all ingredients (except the fresh mint) to the mixing glass and stir 15-20 seconds to chill. Discard ice and water from old fashioned glass, add one large cube and strain cocktail into glass. Garnish with fresh mint and serve.