Ember Velvet

A sultry and evocative dessert cocktail that combines the warmth of roasted flavors with luscious fruitiness. Inspired by the hypnotic glow of glowing embers, this drink layers smoky mezcal, spiced cherry, and a whisper of toasted marshmallow. The finishing touch: a glimmer of gold dust and a brûléed berry garnish, evoking the final sparks of a perfect fire. Ingredients: 1 oz mezcal 1 oz cherry liqueur (Heering or Luxardo) 1 oz crème de cacao (dark) 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice 0.75 oz coconut cream 2 dashes chocolate bitters 1 barspoon smoked simple syrup (see note) Fresh raspberries and sugar (for garnish) Edible gold dust (optional, for garnish) Instructions: 1. Prepare the garnish: Skewer a raspberry or two, dip lightly in simple syrup, and brûlée with a torch or under a broiler to char the edges. 2. In a shaker, combine mezcal, cherry liqueur, crème de cacao, lemon juice, coconut cream, chocolate bitters, and smoked simple syrup with ice. 3. Shake hard until well-chilled and frothy. 4. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass. 5. Top with a dusting of edible gold, and perch your charred berry garnish on the rim. Glassware: Coupe glass Note: For smoked simple syrup, briefly infuse classic simple syrup with a touch of smoked sea salt or smoke the syrup using a smoke infuser for a true ember-like note.