Black Sage Remedy
Herbaceous and bright, the Black Sage Remedy layers the earthy sage gin with citrusy orange liqueur and a whisper of absinthe, creating a refined, aromatic twist on the classic Corpse Reviver No. 2.
Ingredients
- 0.75 oz Sage Gin0.75 oz Orange Liqueur (Triple Sec or Cointreau)
- 0.75 oz Lillet or Cocchi Americano
- 0.75 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- Absinthe (for rinse)
- Manicured Lemon Peel
Equipment
Boston shaker set, jigger, hawthorn strainer, fine-mesh strainer, absinthe atomizer/dropper, paring knife and cutting board.
Techniques
- Absinthe rinse: Shows how to layer aromatics subtly without overwhelming the palate.
- Equal-parts cocktail: Highlights the importance of precision measuring and balance.
- Shaking vs. stirring: Citrus-driven drinks require shaking to incorporate and aerate.
Directions
- Prepare the glass with an absinthe rinse:
- Lightly mist the inside of a chilled coupe with absinthe.
- If using drops, add 2–3 and rotate to coat.
Note: how too much absinthe overtakes the palate; the goal is a whisper of aroma. - Build the cocktail in the shaker:
- Add sage gin, orange liqueur, Lillet/Cocchi, and lemon.
- Shake:
- Add ice and shake firmly for 10–12 seconds.
- Note: A proper hard shake adds texture, integrates citrus, and chills quickly.
- Double strain:
- Pour through the hawthorn and fine mesh into the absinthe-rinsed coupe.
Note: This step removes pulp and ice chips to create the iconic satin texture of the drink. - Manicure and express the lemon peel:
- Hold the peel skin-side down, gently warm between fingers, and express oils over the surface of the drink.
- Garnish:
- Rest the peel on the rim or float it neatly.