The Snowbird Recipe

Combine and warm

In a small saucepan combine 4 tbsp pure maple syrup and 1 tbsp water with the star anise, cloves and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Warm gently over low heat until just steaming (do not boil) for about 3–4 minutes to allow spices to infuse.

Cool and strain

Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain out whole spices and transfer syrup to a small jar. Refrigerate; it will keep 2–3 weeks. Use 0.5 oz per cocktail.

Chill: If desired, chill a rocks or coupe glass by filling with ice water while you build the drink.

Add ingredients to shaker: Into a cocktail shaker add 1.5 oz Plantation Dark Rum, 0.5 oz Laird's Apple Brandy, 0.5 oz Yellow Chartreuse, 0.75 oz fresh lime juice, 0.5 oz spiced maple syrup and 2 dashes Angostura bitters.

Shake with ice: Fill shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 12–15 seconds until well chilled (shaker becomes cold to the touch).

Prepare glass: Dump ice water from your chilled glass and add a large ice cube (for rocks) or leave empty for a coupe. If using crushed ice, have it ready.

Strain: Double-strain (use a Hawthorne and fine mesh) into the prepared glass over the large ice cube or into the chilled coupe.

Garnish and finish: Garnish with a lime wheel on the rim and grate a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon over the top. Serve immediately.