Saumur Tonic

Recipe by Mixologist Sean Norris

Instead of gin, we will use another agave-based spirit called Mezcal (think tequila’s smoky cousin). This spirit puts off subtle floral aromas including jasmine, violet and honeysuckle. We’ll complement it with an ingredient we bartenders adore: elderflower, known as “bartender’s ketchup” because it works with almost everything. Again, moderation is key!

Ingredients:
1 ½ oz Banhez Mezcal
½ oz Combier Sureau (Elderflower)
¼ oz Combier Kümmel
Fever Tree tonic (topper)

Instructions:
Combine the Mezcal, Elderflower and Kümmel in a tin. Add ice and shake for 10-12 seconds. Strain into a highball glass over ice. Top with tonic and garnish with a lemon twist. Kümmel is a beautifully complex liqueur incorporating cumin, caraway and fennel, which add pleasant spice and herbal notes to the cocktail. The elderflower rounds this out, while the Banhez Mezcal brings smokiness and minerality.