El Derby Ahumado (Basil Julep With Cucumber, Jalapeño, and Mezcal)

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

This cocktail is admittedly quite far from classic julep territory, but it’s as drinkable as it is atypical. The name means “the smoked derby” in Spanish, a nod to the mezcal that lends the drink its campfire aroma. Mixed with it are muddled cucumber (for thirst-quenching freshness); jalapeño (for green, vegetal spice); basil (for an herbal note); and agave syrup—which is made from the same Mexican succulent that mezcal is—though sugar would work just fine in its place.

Instead of garnishing with a tuft of fresh mint, you can bury your nose in some sprigs of fresh basil, then snack on the cucumber stick that’s jammed into the ice. It’s just enough refreshment to tame the jalapeño heat and keep you coming back for more.

(Why?)

Published at Thu, 13 Jul 2017 12:54:00 +0000