The Hunter cocktail is a spirit-forward, after-dinner drink with bourbon and cherry liqueur, perfect for sipping slowly.
I love a spirit-forward cocktail. It’s the type of drink I’ll usually go for at a bar or restaurant, particularly as the weather gets cooler. They are referred to as after-dinner drinks, or more commonly, digestifs. Digestifs are characterized by strong and bold flavors, which come from the high concentration of spirits used. Some popular digestif cocktails include classics such as the Negroni, Manhattan, and Sazerac. Typically they are made with whiskey, gin, or other potent spirits, and are served in small portions to allow the drinker to savor the complex flavors. Despite their strength, these cocktails can be surprisingly smooth and balanced when prepared correctly, making them a popular choice for those who appreciate a bold and sophisticated drink.
The Hunter cocktail is a lesser-known drink of which the origin is unknown. It has gained popularity in Japan however, aided by famous bartender Hidetsugo Ueno San.
Hidetsugu Ueno San is a world-renowned bartender from Japan who has made a significant impact in the cocktail industry. He is the founder of Bar High Five, a popular bar in Tokyo that has been ranked among the best bars in the world. He has gained fame for his exceptional skills in mixing classic and contemporary cocktails, and he commands respect for his attention to detail, precision, and dedication to using only the highest quality ingredients. His contributions to the art of bartending have earned him numerous awards and accolades, cementing his status as a true legend in the world of cocktails.
Watch the video here. If you make this one, don’t forget to tag me on TikTok or Instagram. I love to see it!
📖 Recipe
Hunter Cocktail
Ingredients
- 45 mL bourbon whiskey
- 20 mL cherry brandy liqueur
- 2.5 mL maraschino liqueur
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- Orange zest twist
- Maraschino cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Add bourbon, cherry brandy, maraschino liqueur and orange bitters to a mixing glass with ice. Mix to chill.
- Strain into a Nick and Nora glass (or an ice-filled rocks glass, if you prefer). Express orange oil over the top and garnish with a maraschino cherry on a cocktail pick.
Looking for more bourbon cocktails? Try a Gold Rush or a Cinnamon Old Fashioned.
Leave a comment