Have you found yourself with a half-used jar of cocktail cherries languishing in the refrigerator after the holiday season? A celebrated Scottish bar has the perfect, elegant solution to ensure that precious syrup doesn't go to waste.
The American Bar's Sparkling Creation
Emilio Giovanazzi, the head bartender at The American Bar within the iconic Gleneagles Hotel in Auchterarder, Perthshire, has crafted a delectable drink that transforms simple leftovers into a complex and refreshing serve. Dubbed the 'Smoked Cherry', this cocktail offers a sweet, sparkling, and subtly smoky experience, ideal for what one might call the '19th hole' or any relaxing moment.
How to Craft the Smoked Cherry at Home
The recipe is beautifully straightforward, allowing home enthusiasts to replicate a touch of Gleneagles luxury. You will need just a few key ingredients to create this unique blend of flavours.
Ingredients:
- 15ml of syrup from a jar of cocktail cherries
- 45ml of mezcal (the bar recommends Casamigos)
- 10ml of maraschino liqueur (such as Luxardo)
- 60ml of ChariTea sparkling mate
Simple Steps for a Sophisticated Sip
The method is as effortless as the drink is impressive. Begin by pouring the cherry syrup into a tall glass. Add the mezcal and maraschino liqueur, then gently stir the spirits together to combine. Next, fill the glass with ice. The final touch is a top-up with the sparkling mate, which adds a lively, effervescent finish. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmonious balance of sweet, smoky, and sparkling notes.
Elevating the Everyday
This recipe from Gleneagles demonstrates how a bit of bartending ingenuity can elevate a common leftover into something truly special. It champions the use of mezcal, a spirit known for its distinctive smoky character, which pairs wonderfully with the sweet cherry and the herbal notes of the sparkling mate. It's a prime example of modern mixology that is both accessible and deeply satisfying.
So, before you consider discarding that jar, why not take inspiration from one of Scotland's finest hotel bars? The Smoked Cherry cocktail provides a wonderfully classy and delicious reason to look at your fridge contents in a new light.
