Opium # 198 Recipe
Roku gin, poppy liqueur, martini rosso, hibiscus bitters, citrus
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Ingredients
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Cocktail
Optional Rinse / Aroma
Method
Cocktail
- 1
Chill cocktail glass (optional)
If desired, place a coupe or chilled cocktail glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes or fill it with ice water while you prepare the drink to ensure the cocktail stays cold.
- 2
If using the optional high-proof spirit rinse: pour 0.25 oz into the chilled cocktail glass, swirl to coat the bowl, then discard excess or gently pour out and set glass aside. This step adds an aromatic hit that complements hibiscus and poppy notes.
- 3
Add the Roku gin (2 oz), poppy liqueur (0.5 oz), Martini Rosso (0.75 oz) and fresh lemon juice (0.25 oz) into a mixing glass or shaker filled with large ice cubes (about 5 cubes).
- 4
Add hibiscus bitters: add 3 dashes directly to the mixing glass. The bitters add floral tartness and deepen the color and aroma.
- 5
Stir the mixture for 30–40 seconds with a long bar spoon. Use smooth, even strokes, chilling and diluting to about 20–25% dilution (will feel colder and thicker on the spoon). For a slightly more aerated texture, stir more briskly for up to 45 seconds; do not shake, as this is a spirit-forward, stirred style drink.
- 6
Empty the chilled cocktail glass of ice or ensure the rinse has been poured out. Double-strain (or single strain if you prefer) the cocktail from the mixing glass into the chilled coupe or martini glass using a Hawthorne or julep strainer; a fine mesh strainer is optional but helps catch any tiny ice shards or bits of citrus pulp.
- 7
Express the oils of an orange twist over the surface of the cocktail by holding the twist skin-side down about an inch above the drink and quickly pinching to release the oils. Run the twist around the rim and drop it into the glass as garnish.
- 8
Optionally float a single dried hibiscus petal on the surface for additional aroma and visual appeal. Serve immediately.
Notes & Serving
- 9
Serves 1. Taste and adjust: if you want it sweeter or more vermouth-forward, increase Martini Rosso by 0.25 oz. If you'd like a more floral or pronounced poppy note, increase poppy liqueur by 0.25 oz, but be cautious — poppy liqueurs can dominate quickly.
- 10
Estimated preparation time includes chilling and stirring; total time about 6–8 minutes.