Fortaleza Añejo Recipe

Chill and rim

Place an Old Fashioned glass or rocks glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes to chill. If using smoked sea salt, rub a cut piece of orange peel or a small amount of agave syrup around the rim, then gently press the rim into the smoked sea salt on a small plate to coat lightly. Return the glass to a cool place while you prepare the drink.

Combine ingredients

In a mixing glass or mixing tin, add 2 oz Fortaleza Añejo tequila, 0.25 tbs agave syrup (if using for a touch of sweetness), and 2 dashes of orange bitters. Add plenty of ice to the mixing glass.

Stir

Stir the mixture gently for 20–30 seconds (about 15–20 full strokes) until well-chilled and slightly diluted. The goal is to integrate the syrup and bitters while chilling without over-diluting the añejo.

Discard any ice or salt from the chilled glass if necessary. Add 1–2 large ice cubes to the glass, then strain the stirred tequila mixture over the ice. Express the oils from an orange twist by holding the twist over the glass and giving it a firm squeeze so the oils spritz onto the drink, then run the twist around the rim and drop it into the glass as garnish. Serve immediately.