A few weeks ago the lovely Genevieve, founder of The Bitter Housewife bitters and RAFT syrups, sent me a package of delicious goodies. Included was a little gift set of RAFT orgeat and The Bitter Housewife Bull Run Barrel-Aged Bitters. I set out to create something that didn’t include whiskey, just to mix it up a little. I came across a classic drink called the Japanese Cocktail and thought it would be a fun one to try.
The origins don’t seem to actually have much to do with Asian culture, but a hat tip may be due to Jerry Thomas—it’s said the cocktail was created for a Japanese diplomat who frequented his bar. The original recipe calls for cognac, orgeat, and angostura bitters. I subbed in the Bull Run bitters and the result is boozy, a little complex and quite tasty. The cognac is very prominent, so if you don’t like cognac I would skip this one. Otherwise—definitely try it!
I like this drink as an after-dinner/dessert cocktail. It’s boozy and a little sweet and I think would be perfect with a slice of decadent chocolate cake.
Be sure to check out RAFT and The Bitter Housewife—I only use products I really love, and I’ve purchased items from both before. Plus, I love supporting small businesses who are making products to create great cocktails. Cheers!
Japanese Cocktail
makes two cocktails
- 4 oz cognac — I used A de Fussigny
- 1 oz orgeat — I used RAFT
- 4 dashes The Bitter Housewife Bull Run Barrel Aged Bitters (you could also sub in angostura)
Assembly
Combine all ingredients in a shaker filled with ice. Shake until very cold, about 20 seconds. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with an optional lemon peel.
Want more cognac? Try my Brandy Old Fashioned!