The Carlsbaek

Carlsbaek is a complex, bittersweet digestif that brilliantly marries the earthy smoke of mezcal with the rich depth of espresso coffee liqueur. Adapted from a recipe by Morten Carlsbaek, it expertly balances its robust foundation with the herbal notes of Amaro Averna and China China Amer, lifted by a bright dash of fresh lemon juice and orange bitters. Shaken and served up in a chilled coupe, this sophisticated evening sipper is elegantly finished with an expressed lemon zest twist.

Ingredients:

• 40 ml Del Maguey Vida Clásico Mezcal

• 15 ml Amaro (e.g., Averna)

• 15 ml Galliano Espresso Coffee liqueur

• 10 ml Bigallet China China Amer

• 5 ml Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1 dash of Orange Bitters by Angostura

Instructions:

• Select and pre-chill a coupe glass.

• Prepare a garnish of lemon zest twist.

• Shake all ingredients with ice.

• Fine strain into a chilled glass.

• Express lemon zest twist over the cocktail and use as garnish.

Attribution:
Recipe: Morten Carlsbaek
Photo: Difford’s Guide
Origin: Difford’s Guide