Red Rock - Anniversary 20 Recipe

Prepare glass

Chill an old-fashioned glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes or fill with ice water while you build the cocktail.

Measure and combine

In a mixing glass or shaker filled halfway with ice, add 2 oz añejo tequila, 0.5 oz reposado tequila, 0.5 oz blood orange liqueur, 0.5 oz sweet vermouth, 0.75 oz fresh blood orange juice, 0.25 oz fresh lime juice, 0.25 oz agave nectar, and 2 dashes Angostura bitters.

Optional smoked saline

If using smoked saline, add 1 tsp (about 5 ml) to the mixing glass for a subtle savory, smoky lift. Alternatively, add a very light pinch of smoked sea salt on the garnish.

Stir or shake

For a slightly spirit-forward, silky texture: stir the mixture with a mixing spoon for 30–40 seconds until well chilled and diluted (about 15–20% dilution). For a brighter, slightly frothier profile: shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds with ice, then strain.

Strain

Discard the ice or water from the chilled old-fashioned glass. Place one large ice cube or sphere into the glass. Double-strain the cocktail into the glass using a Hawthorne and fine mesh strainer (if shaken) or a julep strainer (if stirred).

Express oils from one orange peel over the drink: hold the peel skin-side down about 6 inches over the glass and give it a firm squeeze so the oils spray onto the surface. Optionally flame the peel briefly before expressing to add caramelized citrus aroma, then rub the peel on the glass rim and drop it in or place the blood orange wheel on the rim.

Serve immediately. Recommend serving with a small tasting note: A rich, layered tequila-forward cocktail with bright blood orange and warm spice from vermouth and bitters — appropriate for an anniversary celebration.