The Devil's Backbone drink is a delicious and complex cocktail that combines the bold flavors of rye whiskey, bitter liqueur, and smoky Scotch whisky. It is a cocktail that is sure to please those who enjoy a strong and flavorful drink.
To make a Devil's Backbone, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 ounce rye whiskey, such as Rittenhouse.
– 3/4 ounce Averna, a bitter liqueur from Italy.
– 1/2 ounce Lagavulin 16-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (Ardbeg is a good substitute if you don't have Lagavulin).
– 1/2 ounce Gran Classico Bitter, a bitter apéritif similar to Campari.
– 1 dash of Angostura bitters.
Now, let's dive into the flavors and characteristics of each ingredient that make up this intriguing cocktail:
1. Rye Whiskey: Rye whiskey is known for its spicy, robust flavor profile. It adds a distinct and bold character to the Devil's Backbone. Rittenhouse is a popular choice for this cocktail, but feel free to experiment with other rye whiskies to find your preferred flavor.
2. Averna: Averna is a bitter liqueur hailing from Sicily, Italy. It is made from a blend of herbs, roots, and citrus rinds, resulting in a complex and slightly sweet flavor profile. Averna adds depth and balance to the cocktail, complementing the spiciness of the rye whiskey.
3. Lagavulin 16-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky: The addition of Lagavulin adds a smoky and peaty element to the Devil's Backbone. This Islay Scotch whisky is known for its rich and bold flavors, which perfectly complement the other ingredients. If you don't have Lagavulin, Ardbeg is a suitable substitute with its similar smoky profile.
4. Gran Classico Bitter: Gran Classico Bitter is a bitter apéritif that shares similarities with Campari. It is made from a blend of herbs, roots, and spices, resulting in a complex and bitter flavor. This ingredient adds a layer of bitterness and complexity to the cocktail, enhancing the overall taste experience.
5. Angostura Bitters: Angostura bitters are a classic cocktail ingredient known for their aromatic and bitter qualities. Just a dash of Angostura bitters enhances the flavors of the other ingredients, adding depth and complexity to the Devil's Backbone.
To prepare the Devil's Backbone, simply combine all the ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well chilled, then strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. You can garnish with a lemon twist or a Luxardo cherry if desired.
The Devil's Backbone is a cocktail that offers a delightful balance of spicy, bitter, and smoky flavors. It is a drink that challenges and excites the palate, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. Whether enjoyed as an aperitif or a nightcap, this cocktail is sure to leave a lasting impression.
So, next time you're in the mood for a complex and bold cocktail, give the Devil's Backbone a try. Cheers!