Paragons Of Normalcy Recipe

Cocktail

1. 1

   Prepare glass

   Choose a chilled old-fashioned or rocks glass. Add the 0.25 tsp absinthe to the glass, swirl it around to coat the interior (including the bottom) thoroughly, then pour out any excess or gently blot the interior with a paper towel so only a thin aromatic coating remains.

2. 2

   Combine ingredients

   In a mixing glass or cocktail shaker filled with the measured cup of ice, pour 2 oz yamahai sake and 1 oz blanc vermouth. Add 3 dashes of orange bitters.

3. 3

   Stir

   Using a bar spoon, stir the mixture briskly but smoothly for 20–30 seconds (about 20–30 full spoon rotations) until the outside of the mixing glass feels cold and slightly frosted and the liquid is well chilled and slightly diluted.

4. 4

   Strain

   Place a single large ice cube in the prepared rocks glass. Double-strain the chilled cocktail from the mixing glass into the glass over the large ice cube to avoid any small shards of ice.

5. 5

   Garnish and finish

   Express an orange twist over the drink by holding the twist over the surface and giving it a firm bend to spray oils onto the cocktail, then rub the peel on the glass rim and drop it into the drink as garnish.

6. 6

   Serve immediately and enjoy. The yamahai's savory, slightly lactic and umami notes will mingle with the floral-honey of blanc vermouth, the bright citrus of orange bitters, and a faint green anise from the absinthe rinse.