Stetson Square Recipe
Whistle Pig 18 Year Double Malt Rye Whiskey, Domaine Tariquet Armagnac XO, Carpano Antica Formula Vermouth, Dom Benedictine, Peychaud's Bitters, Angostura Bitters "Earthy, moody fall flavors inspired by a classic Manhattan style cocktail with a decadent array of the highest quality spirits over an artisan ice cube".
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Ingredients
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Cocktail
Optional finishing
Method
Cocktail
- 1
Chill glass
Place a chilled rocks glass or lowball in the freezer for several minutes or fill with cold water while you prepare the cocktail to ensure the final drink remains cold and not overly diluted.
- 2
Measure and combine spirits
In a mixing glass, add 1.5 oz WhistlePig 18 Year Double Malt Rye Whiskey, 0.75 oz Domaine Tariquet Armagnac XO, 0.5 oz Carpano Antica Formula sweet vermouth, and 0.25 oz Dom Benedictine.
- 3
Add bitters
Add 2 dashes of Peychaud's bitters and 1 dash of Angostura bitters to the mixing glass. These bitters provide the signature aromatic lift and a touch of almond/anise and bitter spice.
- 4
Stir with ice
Fill the mixing glass with plenty of ice (large, fresh cubes). Stir gently but thoroughly for 30–45 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled, slightly diluted (about 20–25% dilution by volume), and the liquid is slightly viscous from chilling.
- 5
Prepare serving glass and ice
Discard the chilling water from your rocks glass if used. Place one large artisan ice cube (approx. 2"/5 cm) into the glass. If you have the optional spritz of Armagnac, keep it nearby for finishing.
- 6
Strain
Using a julep or Hawthorne strainer, double-strain the chilled cocktail from the mixing glass into the prepared rocks glass over the single large ice cube to present a clear, elegant pour.
- 7
Finish (optional)
For an elevated aroma, lightly mist or spritz ~0.1 oz of the Armagnac XO over the top of the cocktail from a dropper or small spoon. Alternatively, briefly flame-express an orange peel over the surface for a subtle burnt citrus note, then discard the peel if desired.
- 8
Garnish
Express the oils of one orange peel over the cocktail by pinching the peel skin-side down about 2–3 inches above the drink, then rub the rim with the peel and place it on the rim or rest it on the ice. If desired, add a Luxardo or brandied cherry on a pick.
- 9
Serve
Present immediately. Sip slowly to appreciate the layered profile: earthy, oak-forward rye; warm, dried-fruit Armagnac; rich vermouth and herbal Benedictine; with bitters tying the flavors together.
