Ingredients:

  • ¾ fl oz Blended Scotch Whisky
  • ¾ fl oz Quality Sweet Vermouth
  • ¾ fl oz Cherry Liqueur (Cherry Heering is traditional)
  • ¾ fl oz Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
  • Ice (Generous handful)
  • 1 wide strip Orange zest or 1 quality Maraschino cherry (Garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Chill the Glassware: Place the serving glass (Coupe or Nick & Nora) in the freezer or fill it with ice water while preparing the cocktail.
  2. Prepare the Juice and Garnish: Freshly squeeze the orange juice into a small vessel. Using a paring knife or peeler, cut a strip of orange zest for the garnish; set aside.
  3. Measure Ingredients: Using the jigger, carefully measure all four liquid ingredients (Scotch, Vermouth, Cherry Liqueur, Orange Juice) and pour them into the cocktail shaker tin.
  4. Add Ice: Fill the shaker 2/3 full with high-quality, solid ice cubes.
  5. Shake Vigorously: Seal the shaker tightly. Shake hard for approximately 10–15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker tin is thoroughly frosted and feels painfully cold to the touch. This achieves optimal dilution and chilling.
  6. Strain the Cocktail: Discard the chilling ice water from the serving glass. Place the Hawthorn strainer on the shaker and pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer (the double strain) directly into the chilled glass. This ensures a silky, clear texture.
  7. Garnish: Express the oils from the prepared orange zest by twisting the strip over the surface of the drink. Alternatively, spear a quality Maraschino cherry and place it at the rim.