Rocky Mountain Recipe

The Rocky Mountain shot is a delightful concoction that's been warming the hearts of those who enjoy a balance of sweet and sour. Its name suggests a rugged, adventurous spirit, much like the explorers of the American Rockies.

• Popularity: This shot has gained popularity in bars across North America, particularly in regions that resonate with the mountainous theme.
• Preferred Crowd: It's a hit among those who appreciate a nuanced shot that isn't overwhelmingly strong.
• Occasions: Perfect for toasting on cold nights or as a bold kickoff to a night out.

The Rocky Mountain shot offers a smooth, sweet flavor with a zesty citrus kick from the lime juice. The Southern Comfort provides a whiskey-like warmth, while the amaretto adds a hint of almond and richness.

• The Southern Comfort in the shot was originally created in New Orleans and is known for its fruity and spicy profile.
• Amaretto, an Italian liqueur, derives its name from the Italian word 'amaro', meaning 'bitter', despite its sweet taste.
• Lime juice not only adds a tangy flavor but also helps balance the sweetness of the other ingredients.

1. Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
2. Pour 1 oz of Southern Comfort, 1 oz of Amaretto, and 0.5 oz of lime juice into the shaker.
3. Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
4. Strain the contents into a shot glass.

• Always use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
• Chill the shot glass before serving to keep the shot cool and refreshing.
• A vigorous shake ensures all the flavors are well combined and the shot is perfectly chilled.

Food Pairings

• BBQ Ribs: The sweet and smoky flavors of the ribs complement the nutty sweetness of the Southern Comfort and Amaretto in the Rocky Mountain shot.
• Salted Nuts: Salted nuts like almonds or cashews can enhance the nutty flavors of the Amaretto and provide a nice texture contrast.
• Chocolate Desserts: A rich chocolate brownie or chocolate mousse pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the shot, contrasting with the tang of the lime juice.

Drink Pairings

• Craft Beer: A nice pale ale or a craft lager can offer a refreshing follow-up to the sweet and tangy shot.
• Cold Brew Coffee: The nutty and sweet flavor notes in the shot may pair pleasantly with the deep, rich flavors of a cold brew coffee.

• Southern Comfort: You can substitute with another peach-flavored whiskey liqueur if Southern Comfort isn't available.
• Amaretto: If you're out of amaretto, try a nut-flavored liqueur or even a hazelnut syrup for a non-alcoholic version.
• Lime Juice: Fresh is best, but bottled lime juice can work in a pinch.

The Mountain Climber

• Ingredients: Add a dash of cinnamon schnapps to the original recipe.
• Why: It's like a sherpa guiding your taste buds to the peak of flavor—spicy altitude we're aiming for!
• Taste: The cinnamon schnapps adds a warm spicy note to the sweetness, like sipping on a campfire story.
• Description: Just when you thought the Rocky Mountain shot couldn't get any cozier, a dash of cinnamon schnapps wraps you in a spicy blanket.

Alpine Sunset

• Ingredients: Substitute the Amaretto with Chambord (black raspberry liqueur).
• Why: Turn that Rocky Mountain into a fruity peak with a magical berry view.
• Taste: The Chambord adds a berry burst that seems to set the sky on fire—a sunset in your shot glass.
• Description: Like the last rays of sun kissing the mountain tops, this twist adds a touch of berry romance to the classic shot.

The Citrus Peak

• Ingredients: Use equal parts lemon and lime juice with a splash of orange liqueur.
• Why: It's like hiking the Rockies during the citrus harvest—the zestful path less traveled.
• Taste: The mix of citrus with a whisper of orange from the liqueur is refreshing and bright, with a zesty horizon.
• Description: This twist takes you on a citrus adventure, elevating the tangy profile while still honoring the original shot's spirit.