Josh “legacy" Recipe

Combine spirits

Add 1.5 oz añejo or reposado tequila and 1 oz ruby port into a cocktail shaker. The tequila provides oak and spice; the ruby port adds sweet red-fruit depth to tie into the 'Interesting Reds' theme.

Add 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice and 0.5 oz demerara or simple syrup to the shaker. The lemon brightens the mix and the demerara adds a subtle caramel note that complements the port and aged tequila.

Add 2 dashes orange bitters and 1 dash Angostura bitters to the shaker. These bitters add citrus lift and a touch of spicy complexity to round the profile.

Fill the shaker with cubed ice (about 1 cup). Cap and shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until well-chilled and slightly diluted. Proper dilution melds the port and tequila and softens the acidity.

Strain the shaken mixture into a chilled old-fashioned glass over a single large ice cube or sphere. Pour 2 oz chilled light-bodied red wine (Pinot Noir or Gamay) gently over the back of a spoon to float it atop the cocktail. This layering preserves the aromatic red-wine notes and creates an attractive two-tone presentation.

Express the oils of a large orange twist over the drink, rub it around the rim, then drop it into the glass along with a Luxardo or brandied cherry. Serve immediately.

Taste before serving: if the cocktail feels too sweet, add an extra 1/4 oz lemon and briefly stir to integrate. For a smokier profile, substitute mezcal for half of the tequila. Use a chilled red and pour slowly for the best float.