The Reading Nook

A tart, espresso-forward drink that almost feels like a sour but not quite. Best enjoyed with a thick book in the other hand.

INGREDIENTS

THE READING NOOK

1.5oz tart cherry juice

Double espresso (see below)

3/4oz orgeat syrup

5 drops of 10:1 saline solution

Egg white

Expressed orange oil

BUILD

For this drink in particular, the type of coffee used is going to massively affect the final flavor profile. I would suggest a fruit-forward coffee, roasted light-medium. Something like a natural Ethiopian or Colombian coffee would work well. If you use something darker or blended, you’ll find the final drink tasting far more chocolate-forward (which can still be nice, don’t get me wrong, it’s just a bit less complex).

In a cocktail shaker, add the cherry juice, espresso, orgeat, saline, and egg white. Dry shake vigorously for 45s. Add ice and shake again for 15-30s to fully chill. Strain into a coupe glass. Express orange oil atop drink before serving. Garnish with speared cherries and orange peel if you desire.

Sip and enjoy.