Longshoreman

The Longshoreman cocktail is a brilliant creation by New Orleans bartender Abigail Gullo, showcasing a harmonious blend of whiskey, vermouth, and amaro. This cocktail stands out for its innovative use of ingredients, elevating classic cocktail components to create a drink that is both sophisticated and accessible.

1. Rye Whiskey

At the heart of the Longshoreman is rye whiskey, known for its spiciness and robust flavor. This spirit provides a solid foundation for the cocktail, offering a bold character that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

2. Punt e Mes Vermouth

Gullo carefully selects Punt e Mes, an Italian vermouth that translates to “point and a half.” This name reflects its unique flavor profile—one point of sweetness balanced with half a point of bitterness. Punt e Mes boasts a strong, distinctive flavor that adds depth and richness to classic cocktails like the Manhattan and Negroni. Its complexity enhances the Longshoreman, making it a standout choice.

3. Averna Amaro

Replacing traditional bitters, Gullo incorporates Averna, a Sicilian amaro renowned for its bittersweet, earthy, and herbaceous qualities. With notes of candied orange peel and caramel, Averna serves as a delightful counterpart to the whiskey, adding viscosity and weight to the cocktail. Unlike the typical two or three dashes of bitters found in most Manhattans, Gullo uses a full half-ounce of Averna, providing a richer flavor profile.

To finish off the Longshoreman, Gullo adds a flamed orange peel garnish. This not only adds a visual flair to the cocktail but also imparts a unique burnt citrus aroma and flavor that enhances the overall drinking experience. Impress your friends by mastering this zesty technique, adding a touch of pyrotechnics to your cocktail presentation.

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces rye whiskey
• 1/2 ounce Averna amaro
• 1/2 ounce Punt e Mes
• Garnish: flamed orange peel

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing glass filled with ice, add the rye whiskey, Averna, and Punt e Mes.
2. Stir: Stir the mixture until well-chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
3. Strain: Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass, showcasing its rich color and clarity.
4. Garnish: To create the flamed orange peel garnish, strike a match and hold it near the drink’s surface. With the skin side facing the flame, press the orange peel to express and ignite the oils. Rub the peel over the rim of the glass, then drop it into the drink for an added burst of citrus aroma.

The Longshoreman cocktail is a perfect example of how creative mixology can transform classic ingredients into something extraordinary. With its bold rye whiskey, the unique depth of Punt e Mes, and the bittersweet character of Averna, this cocktail is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, the Longshoreman offers a delightful drinking experience that balances sophistication with approachability. Cheers to a well-crafted cocktail!