Smokey Velvet Reverie

Description: The Smokey Velvet Reverie is a luxurious cocktail that combines the deep smokiness of mezcal with the robust spice of rye whiskey, seamlessly blended with the subtle sweetness of elderberry tea and the rich, earthy notes of cacao. Clarified with milk for a smooth, velvety texture, this drink embodies a harmonious symphony of flavors, perfect for savoring the moment. Ingredients: - 1.5 oz Mezcal - 0.75 oz Rye Whiskey - 1 oz Elderberry Tea (strongly brewed and chilled) - 0.5 oz Cacao Nib Liqueur - 0.5 oz Simple Syrup - 2 oz Whole Milk (for clarification) - A dash of Angostura Bitters - Cacao Powder (for garnish) - Dehydrated Citrus Wheel (for garnish) Glass: Old Fashioned Glass Instructions: 1. Begin by brewing a strong elderberry tea and chilling it in the refrigerator. 2. In a mixing container, combine the mezcal, rye whiskey, elderberry tea, cacao nib liqueur, and simple syrup. 3. Slowly add the whole milk to the mixture, stirring gently to allow the milk to curdle and clarify the cocktail. 4. Strain the mixture through a fine strainer or cheesecloth to remove the milk solids, leaving a clear liquid behind. 5. Add a dash of Angostura bitters and stir gently. 6. Fill an old-fashioned glass with a large ice cube. 7. Pour the clarified cocktail over the ice. 8. Garnish with a sprinkle of cacao powder and a dehydrated citrus wheel. 9. Serve and enjoy the rich, smokey, and velvety experience.