In crafting the cocktails for this special series and developing variations around the theme of the original Jabberwock Cocktail from Harry Craddock’s 1930 Savoy Cocktail Book, I knew I would make at least one version with bourbon rather than gin. The specific cocktail that would use it was actually determined by the bourbon itself, from a storied and award winning distillery called “Rabbit Hole”. The story of the distillery is one of a modern love affair with bourbon of it’s founder, who fell down his own rabbit hole to pursue a passion for making the best whiskey he could make. He succeeded with a series of distinctive super-premium bourbons which have gone on to win spirits awards and even earn the distinction of being the only James Beard designated bourbon on the market.

Rabbit Hole Hiegold, named after Kentucky bourbon pioneer from 1840, is a rye heavy spirit rich in toasted malt, baking spice, butterscotch and citrus flavors. At 95 proof it brings a bold heat and spice to a cocktail. In addition to the sweeter Oloroso sherry, I added a touch of brown sugar syrup sweetness to cut the heat and round out the flavors. The Caperitif vermouth in the classic Jabberwock was also too soft to hold up to this bourbon on its own; what was needed was a more bitter amaro to properly balance the drink. After some experimentation I selected Gran Classico from Tempus Fugit Spirits, a bitter aperitif liqueur based on a recipe from Turin, Italy dating to 1860, with bittersweet flavors of citrus, gentian, rhubarb and vanilla. The final drink is a potent potion which tempts you to “drink me” – cheers!

Down the Rabbit Hole

1 oz Rabbit Hole Hiegold

1 oz Oloroso

½ oz Caperitif

½ oz Gran Classico

2 d orange bitters

1 tsp demerara syrup

Stir with ice and strain into a favorite glass. Garnish with a lime wheel pocket watch.

Read about the entire series: