An Herbaceous Twist on a Classic

The Chef’s Kiss takes the classic Last Word formula and gives it an innovative, herbaceous spin. Fernet-Branca acts as the base, introducing a mix of bold bitterness, menthol, and earthy notes that blend seamlessly with yellow Chartreuse. The sweet, rich demerara syrup rounds off the bitter elements, while the fresh lime juice adds brightness and balance, creating a truly unique drinking experience that’s refreshingly complex.

Demerara syrup is a type of simple syrup made using demerara sugar instead of regular white sugar. Demerara sugar is a minimally processed sugar that retains some of the natural molasses, giving it a golden color and a rich, caramel-like flavor. This makes it a popular choice for cocktails where a deeper, more complex sweetness is desired, especially in whiskey and rum drinks.

To make demerara syrup:

1. Combine equal parts demerara sugar and water in a saucepan (typically 1 cup of each).
2. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
3. Cool before using, then store in an airtight container in the fridge, where it should last for up to a month.

This syrup is often used in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Daiquiri to add depth to the sweetness without overpowering other flavors.

Why It Works: Fernet-Branca, with its signature bitter complexity, contrasts beautifully with yellow Chartreuse’s floral and honeyed undertones. Demerara syrup smooths the cocktail, allowing the herbal qualities of both spirits to shine without overpowering. The lime juice completes the drink by cutting through the richness and keeping the flavors vibrant and balanced.

Flavor Profile: The Chef’s Kiss offers a journey through layers of bold bitterness, subtle sweetness, and bright acidity. The cocktail opens with Fernet-Branca’s strong herbal and minty notes, which give way to the honey, citrus, and anise flavors of yellow Chartreuse. The demerara syrup provides a touch of caramel sweetness, making the drink smooth yet full of character.

Did You Know? Fernet-Branca, an Italian amaro with a closely guarded recipe of over 27 herbs and spices, has been an iconic bitter spirit since 1845. Loved by bartenders worldwide, it has found its way into many modern cocktails for its unique ability to balance sweet and rich flavors. In the Chef’s Kiss, Fernet-Branca brings both depth and brightness, creating a cocktail that’s truly memorable.

An Herbaceous Twist on a Classic

The Chef’s Kiss takes the classic Last Word formula and gives it an innovative, herbaceous spin. Fernet-Branca acts as the base, introducing a mix of bold bitterness, menthol, and earthy notes that blend seamlessly with yellow Chartreuse. The sweet, rich demerara syrup rounds off the bitter elements, while the fresh lime juice adds brightness and balance, creating a truly unique drinking experience that’s refreshingly complex.

Demerara syrup is a type of simple syrup made using demerara sugar instead of regular white sugar. Demerara sugar is a minimally processed sugar that retains some of the natural molasses, giving it a golden color and a rich, caramel-like flavor. This makes it a popular choice for cocktails where a deeper, more complex sweetness is desired, especially in whiskey and rum drinks.

To make demerara syrup:

1. Combine equal parts demerara sugar and water in a saucepan (typically 1 cup of each).
2. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
3. Cool before using, then store in an airtight container in the fridge, where it should last for up to a month.

This syrup is often used in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Daiquiri to add depth to the sweetness without overpowering other flavors.

Why It Works: Fernet-Branca, with its signature bitter complexity, contrasts beautifully with yellow Chartreuse’s floral and honeyed undertones. Demerara syrup smooths the cocktail, allowing the herbal qualities of both spirits to shine without overpowering. The lime juice completes the drink by cutting through the richness and keeping the flavors vibrant and balanced.

Flavor Profile: The Chef’s Kiss offers a journey through layers of bold bitterness, subtle sweetness, and bright acidity. The cocktail opens with Fernet-Branca’s strong herbal and minty notes, which give way to the honey, citrus, and anise flavors of yellow Chartreuse. The demerara syrup provides a touch of caramel sweetness, making the drink smooth yet full of character.

Did You Know? Fernet-Branca, an Italian amaro with a closely guarded recipe of over 27 herbs and spices, has been an iconic bitter spirit since 1845. Loved by bartenders worldwide, it has found its way into many modern cocktails for its unique ability to balance sweet and rich flavors. In the Chef’s Kiss, Fernet-Branca brings both depth and brightness, creating a cocktail that’s truly memorable.