The Deluxe Version (prototype)

Packed with holiday spirit

For this Thanksgiving toast I mixed up something apropos, and tried to stuff as many holiday flavors into the glass as possible, in keeping with the theme here. For the base I used cognac, a deluxe touch to replace bourbon in this seasonal whiskey drink. Of course there had to be spiced pear liqueur from St. George distillery, full of Bartlett pear, cinnamon and clove. Any excuse this time of year to use that is a good enough excuse, trust me. Add it to anything to impart that instant holiday flavor. For some interesting and harder to place notes, like an irregularly shaped puzzle piece, the Czech spirit Becherovka does the trick. It’s a fascinating herbal spirit dating from 1807 full of dark honey, clove, cinnamon, ginger, licorice, menthol, allspice, cardamom, bitter root and gentian. It has been called “Christmas in a glass” and works incredibly well in winter drinks. It adds just the right touch of intrigue here. There’s also Bessamim, another aromatic spiced liqueur that evokes cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, carrot cake and candied spiced nuts. As if all of that weren’t enough already, there’s a subtle hint of homemade grenadine, made with fresh pomegranate juice and pomegranate molasses, for a final touch of sweetness and vibrant color. Pack it all together for some deluxe holiday magic. Here’s to the best of the season, may you all stay healthy and happy. Cheers!

These birds are stuffed

The Deluxe Edition

¾ oz cognac

¾ oz Becherovka

½ oz St. George Spiced Pear

½ oz Sukkah Hill Bessamim

¾ oz lemon

¼ oz house grenadine

Shake ingredients together and strain into a favorite glass.

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