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Frequently paired with
The best thing to pair and share with Red Herring
Ingredients
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Cocktail
Garnish
Method
Cocktail Preparation
Combine and chill
Add the gin, pepper jelly, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and a dash of bitters into a cocktail shaker. Add a handful of ice (about 1 cup) to the shaker.
Emulsify the jelly
Vigorously shake for 15–20 seconds. The goal is to fully dissolve and emulsify the pepper jelly into the spirit so the jelly is well integrated and the mixture is chilled.
Strain into glass
Double-strain the mixture into a chilled Collins or highball glass filled halfway with fresh ice using both the shaker strainer and a fine mesh strainer to remove any solids from the jelly.
Top with cider
Top gently with about 3 oz sparkling apple cider to preserve carbonation. Stir once lightly with a bar spoon to integrate the cider without flattening it.
Adjust seasoning
Taste and, if needed, add up to 0.25 oz more simple syrup for sweetness or another small squeeze (about 0.25 oz) of lemon juice to increase brightness. Stir gently to combine.
Garnish & Serve
Garnish with a lemon wheel or twist on the rim and float a small basil or mint leaf on top, if using. Sprinkle a very light pinch (about 1/8–1/4 tsp) of cracked black pepper over the foam for aroma and a subtle peppery note.
Serve immediately while the cider is effervescent. Recommend one cocktail per serving.