Ragged Company Cocktail Recipe

The Ragged Company cocktail is a modern creation, inspired by the camaraderie and resilience of friends who have weathered life's storms together. This drink is perfect for those who appreciate a well-balanced, complex cocktail with a hint of mystery. It is especially popular among adventurous drinkers and those who enjoy sharing stories of their own ragged companies.

• Origin: Modern mixology
• Inspiration: Friendship and resilience
• Target audience: Adventurous drinkers and storytellers

The Ragged Company cocktail is a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and bitter flavors, with a touch of smokiness. The drink is both refreshing and invigorating, with a smooth, velvety texture and a lingering, complex finish.

• The name 'Ragged Company' is a nod to the idea that even in our most difficult times, we can find strength and solace in the company of friends.
• The cocktail's unique combination of flavors is designed to evoke a sense of adventure and exploration, much like the stories shared among friends.
• The Ragged Company cocktail is often served at gatherings where storytelling and bonding are the main focus.

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the following ingredients:
   • 2oz bourbon
   • 0.5oz amaretto
   • 0.75oz lemon juice
   • 0.5oz simple syrup
   • 1 egg white
2. Perform a dry shake (without ice) for 10-15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
3. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for another 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters on top of the foam.
6. Express an orange peel over the drink and discard.
7. Garnish with a maraschino cherry, placing it gently on the foam near the edge of the glass.

• Dry shake: This is crucial for a smooth, velvety texture. Don't skip this step.
• Orange peel: Expressing the orange peel over the drink adds a subtle citrus aroma that enhances the overall experience.
• Garnish: Place the cherry gently on the foam near the edge of the glass. It's not just for looks - it adds a hint of sweetness to the final sip.

Appetizers

• Cheese platters with aged cheddar or gouda partner brilliantly with the bourbon's caramel notes.
• Smoked salmon on crusty bread or blinis complements the citrusy zing from the lemon juice.

Main Courses

• Grilled steak or barbecued ribs will harmonize with the smoky sweetness of the cocktail.
• Roast duck with an orange glaze can echo the orange peel's aromatic zest.

Desserts

• Almond biscotti or amaretti cookies pick up the almond nuances from the amaretto.
• Lemon tart plays nicely with the lemon's acidity and the sweetness of the simple syrup.

• Bourbon: Can be replaced with another type of whiskey, like rye or Scotch, for a different flavor profile.
• Amaretto: If you don't have amaretto, you can use a different nut-flavored liqueur, like Frangelico.
• Egg white: If you're vegan or allergic to eggs, you can use aquafaba (chickpea water) as a substitute.

Smoky Company

Replace bourbon with a peaty Scotch whisky for a smoky twist. This cocktail will leave you pondering over a bonfire's memories with its intensified smoky profile.

Nutty Company

Swap out amaretto for Frangelico to add a hazelnut twist. This version is like putting on your favorite sweater: comforting, warm, and familiar with a hint of nuttiness.

Spiced Company

Infuse the simple syrup with cinnamon and star anise, adding a spice rack kick to the cocktail. Each sip sails across a spice bazaar, leaving a trail of exotic whispers behind.