Roots and Rituals
An aromatic sour with rosemary, almond-sweet amaretto and a gently bitter note of coffee.
Ingredients
- Gin, ideally a classic London dry, for balance30 ml
- Amaretto, nutty, sweet almond flavour15 ml
- Limoncello, citrus-fresh and sweet30 ml
- Lemon juice, freshly squeezed15 ml
- Simple syrup, infused with rosemary (1 part Sugar, 1 part Water)15 ml
- Coffee, strong cold brew concentrate7.5 ml
- Rosemary, to garnish, pressed lightly over the drink for aroma (optional)1 sprig
- Lemon, a thin strip, to garnish (optional)1 twist
Method
- Chill a coupe or Nick & Nora glass in the freezer.
- Fill a shaker with plenty of ice.
- Add the gin, amaretto, limoncello, lemon juice, rosemary syrup and cold brew concentrate.
- Shake hard for 8–10 seconds, until well chilled and slightly airy.
- Double strain through a fine sieve into the chilled glass for a silky texture.
- Garnish with a sprig of rosemary lightly pressed over the drink, or a thin lemon twist for aroma.
About this drink
Roots and Rituals is one of the newer signature drinks that bridge classic shaken-sour technique and modern bar craft, with infused syrups and cold brew. The name points to the herbal 'roots' of the rosemary and the small 'rituals' of making it: infusing the syrup, double straining, the aromatic garnish. The result feels both fresh and thoughtful, and makes a fine conversation starter as an aperitif.
Questions and answers
What kind of drink is Roots and Rituals?
A modern cocktail that mixes gin with amaretto, limoncello and a hint of coffee. An unusual combination that brings citrus, almond and bitterness together in a single, complex sour.
Can I replace the cold brew concentrate in Roots and Rituals?
A small amount of strong, cold espresso works too. Use a little less, as espresso is usually more concentrated than cold brew.
