MONSTER SMASH
Photography by Kelly Moore Clark
Written and Styled by Maré Brennan
WHAT YOU NEED:
1 cup apple cider
2-3 cinnamon sticks plus more for burning
2-3 sage leaves plus more for burning
8 fresh blackberries
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 dashes orange bitters
2 ounces bourbon
HOW TO MAKE:
To make apple cider syrup, bring the apple cider and cinnamon sticks to a boil in a small pot. Boil for 8 to 10 minutes, until reduced by half, then cool.
On a heatproof tray, torch one cinnamon stick and two sage leaves. Immediately cover with a cocktail glass to trap the smoke for 2 to 5 minutes.
Muddle the blackberries and sage in a shaker. Add 2 tablespoons cider syrup, lemon, bitters and bourbon, then shake. Fill the smoked glass with ice and strain in the cocktail. Garnish with sage and cinnamon.
