Cantina Custodi Recipe

Rim (optional)

If you want a lightly salted rim, spread the 0.25 tsp sea salt on a small plate. Run a lime wedge around the glass rim and dip just the outer edge into the salt. Set the glass aside to dry while you mix the cocktail.

Combine spirits and modifiers

Add the blanco tequila (3 tbs), reposado tequila (1 tbs), dry vermouth (1 tsp), orange liqueur (1 tsp), fresh lime juice (1 tbs), fresh lemon juice (1/2 tbs), and agave syrup (1 tsp) to a cocktail shaker or mixing glass.

Add bitters

Add the orange bitters (2 tsp) and Angostura bitters (1 tsp) to the mixing vessel. These provide aromatic complexity and a faint bitter backbone that balances the tequila and citrus.

Ice and stir (or shake)

Fill the shaker or mixing glass with large ice cubes. For a brighter, slightly aerated finish, shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds. For a smoother, silkier texture and clearer appearance, stir gently with a bar spoon for 20–30 seconds until well chilled.

Strain and serve

Using a Hawthorne or julep strainer, strain the chilled cocktail into the prepared rocks glass over 1–2 large ice cubes (or into a chilled coupe without ice, if preferred).

Flame orange peel and garnish

Express the flamed orange peel over the drink: hold the peel between thumb and forefinger, skin side toward the drink, and quickly fold it away from a small open flame so the oils briefly ignite and shower the cocktail with a bright citrus aroma. Rub the peel along the glass rim and drop into the drink. Add a fresh lime twist on the rim and place the thin orange wheel on the surface or rim as a visual accent.

Final tasting and adjustment

Taste and, if desired, add a tiny additional drop (1/4 tsp) of agave syrup for sweetness or a dash more lime for acidity. The cocktail should be balanced: tart citrus, a backbone of tequila, subtle herbal notes from vermouth, and aromatic bitterness.

Serve immediately while aromatic oils are fresh. Recommend pairing Cantina Custodi with grilled seafood, citrus-forward appetizers, or as an aperitivo. Rinse mixing equipment promptly to avoid sticky agave residue.