Improved Tequila Cocktail (Bittermens Xocolatl Mole Bitters)

Yesterday, in my round-up of different brands of bitters, I mentioned Bittermens, which is probably my favorite line of new bitters. I first learned about Bittermens a couple years ago from Union Market's Salt & Sundry, which carries a great selection of cocktail accessories. That day I picked up two of their shrub products, Hellfire Habanero Shrub and Orchard Street Celery Shrub (see my recent post on Greg Henry's book Savory Cocktails for a list of great cocktails with these shrubs).

The Xocolatl Mole bitters was Bittermens' first product when Avery and Janet Glasser began production in 2007. As the name implies, they were inspired by mole, the class of rich, spicy sauces from the Oaxaca region of Mexico. Tasted by itself, the spiciness really comes out. When diluted with a little club soda, the cinnamon and chocolate become more prominent. (For my own mole-inspired cocktail, see Dallas Drinks: The Nicholas, made with mezcal, sherry, chocolate and habanero shrub.)

Bittermens Xocolatl Mole Bitters

Bittermens recommends using its mole bitters with dark spirits like aged tequila, dark rum or whiskey. I sampled them in the Improved Tequila Cocktail, created by Houston bartender Bobby Heugel and included among a list of recipes on the Bittermens site. This recipe also appeared in the Washington Post.

Note the use of "improved" in the name of this cocktail. That's a reference to late 19th century cocktails, which could be ordered "plain," "fancy" or "improved." David Wondrich explains the difference in Imbibe! and includes basic recipes for each using brandy, gin or whiskey. The key distinction of the "improved" cocktail is the inclusion of maraschino liqueur. A bottle of Luxardo maraschino liqueur is a great addition to any home bar (cherry heering, kirschwasser or maraschino cherry syrup are not appropriate substitutes).

Improved Tequila Cocktail
Adapted from a recipe by Bobby Heugel of Anvil Bar & Refuge

2 oz. reposado tequila
1 tsp. maraschino liqueur
2 dashes Bittermens Xocolatl Mole bitters
1 dash Angostura bitters
1 tsp. agave nectar
Lemon twist (garnish)

Combine tequila, maraschino liqueur, bitters and agave nectar in a cocktail mixing glass filled with ice. Still until well chilled (about 30 seconds), then strain into a chilled coupe or other cocktail glass. Twist the lemon peel over the drink, rub the peel along the rim of the glass and then drop it into the drink.

Related Posts: 
Cocktail Bitters: An Introduction and History
Cocktail: The Gold Baron (Bittermens Burlesque Bitters)