Enchanted Ember
A sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktail that captures the essence of warmth and transformation. Smoky Lapsang Souchong tea provides a complex base, while blood orange and fresh ginger create a spicy-sweet harmony. The addition of honey and black pepper brings warmth and depth, making this alcohol-free option just as intriguing as its spirited counterparts.
Ingredients
1.5 oz spiced blood orange reduction*
0.75 oz fresh ginger juice
2 oz strong-brewed Lapsang Souchong tea
0.5 oz honey and black pepper syrup**
3 drops bitter citrus tincture***
Cinnamon stick for smoking
Dried citrus wheel for garnish
*Spiced Blood Orange Reduction:
2 cups fresh blood orange juice
2 cinnamon sticks
4 cardamom pods
Reduce by half over low heat, strain
**Honey Black Pepper Syrup:
1 cup honey
0.5 cup water
1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
Heat until combined, steep 20 minutes, strain
***Bitter Citrus Tincture:
Orange peel, grapefruit peel, gentian root
High-proof neutral spirit
Infuse for 2 weeks, strain
Instructions
Brew Lapsang Souchong tea double-strength and let cool slightly.
In a mixing vessel, combine blood orange reduction, fresh ginger juice, and honey black pepper syrup.
Add the cooled tea and stir to combine.
Add bitter citrus tincture.
Light a cinnamon stick and place under an inverted glass cloche.
Let smoke fill the cloche for 30 seconds.
Remove cinnamon stick and quickly pour the cocktail mixture into the smoke-filled cloche.
Garnish with a dried citrus wheel.
Notes
Blood orange reduction will keep refrigerated for 1 week
Honey pepper syrup will keep refrigerated for 2 weeks
Fresh ginger juice should be made day-of
Best served in a rocks glass or small goblet with the cloche presentation
Can be served hot or room temperature
For less smoke flavor, reduce smoking time
Pairs well with: Spiced desserts, dark chocolate, or as a sophisticated evening sipper.
Alternative serving: Can be served in a teapot with smoking ingredients for larger groups