I’d be remiss not to suggest a shot of Jack Daniels as the perfect accompaniment to this Beast of a Box, a pairing pointed out to me by craftsman Robert Yarger himself. That ol’ devil whiskey ought to sooth the savage Beast. But it’s Halloween, and I also prepared this tricky little treat from Drastic Measure in Shawnee, Kansas, where they like to sneak the Peruvian brandy pisco on the menu as often as possible. Pisco is a bold, funky spirit most often made from the Quebranta grape and comparable to Italian grappa. It’s kind of spooky.

Yet lo and behold, it pairs wonderfully with mango. I admit I was skeptical at first, but the flavors meld perfectly and produce a fruit forward spirit which is not too sweet. The gin and Cocchi aperitif balance the drink, and cinnamon syrup adds just the right seasonal notes for this delicious fall indulgence that might have you howling at the moon, devil may care. Cheers.

Devil in the Moonlight by Justin Burnell

1 oz mango-infused pisco

¾ oz lemon

½ oz floral gin

½ oz Cocchi Americano Bianco

½ oz cinnamon syrup

Shake ingredients with ice and strain into the favorite glass over a large cube. Mango chili candy garnished recommended, or a pair of lime wedge horns if you’re feeling devilish.

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