The Black Door Cocktail Recipe

The Black Door cocktail is a mysterious and alluring concoction that has become a staple in the world of mixology. Its origins are shrouded in secrecy, much like the speakeasies of the Prohibition era where such drinks might have been whispered over. It's a favorite among those who appreciate a cocktail with depth and complexity.

• Origins
  • The exact origins are unknown, but it's believed to have been created in the early 21st century.
  • It gained popularity for its unique color and rich flavor profile.
• Popularity
  • Loved by those who enjoy a bold, sophisticated drink.
  • Often ordered by patrons looking for something out of the ordinary.

The Black Door cocktail offers a velvety, rich taste with a hint of sweetness balanced by a touch of bitterness. The herbal notes from the vermouth are complemented by the smoky undertones of the Scotch, creating a complex and intriguing flavor profile.

• The cocktail's name, 'The Black Door', evokes a sense of mystery and exclusivity.
• It's often served in a chilled glass to enhance the smoky and herbal notes.
• The Black Door is sometimes used as a signature drink at high-end cocktail parties.

1. Chill the glass
   • Place the glass in the freezer for at least 20 minutes before preparation.
2. Mix the ingredients
   • In a mixing glass, combine 2 oz of Scotch, 1 oz of sweet vermouth, 1/4 tsp of activated charcoal powder, and 2 dashes of orange bitters.
3. Stir well
   • Add ice and stir the mixture until well chilled.
4. Strain
   • Strain into the chilled glass.
5. Garnish
   • Garnish with a single blackberry on the rim.

• Activated Charcoal
  • Ensure the activated charcoal is food-grade and use sparingly to avoid overpowering the drink.
• Stirring
  • Stir for at least 30 seconds to properly chill and dilute the cocktail.
• Garnish
  • Use a fresh blackberry for the garnish to add a hint of fruitiness and enhance the visual appeal.

Cheese Plate

Bold flavors like Gouda and Aged Cheddar can complement the smokey nature of the Scotch.

Dark Chocolate

A piece of dark chocolate can bring out the sweetness of the vermouth and the dark, complex flavor of the cocktail.

Grilled Meat

Grilled steak or lamb chops with a char on them will echo the charcoal's smokiness in the drink.

Smoked Salmon

Smoked salmon on toast or blinis with a touch of crème fraîche for a decadent pairing.

• Scotch
  • For a less smoky profile, use a milder blended Scotch or even a bourbon.
• Sweet Vermouth
  • A dry vermouth can be used for a less sweet, more herbal taste.
• Activated Charcoal Powder
  • If unavailable, it can be omitted, but the signature black color will be lost.

Smokey Cherry Door

• Replace the blackberry with a cherry for a darker fruit note.
• Add a 1/2 oz of cherry liqueur to bring a hint of sweetness and enhance the fruitiness.
• This twist gives a more succulent depth, trading the blackberry's tang for cherry's rich backdrop.

Spiced Black Door

• Instead of orange bitters, use aromatic bitters for a spicier kick.
• A cinnamon stick as garnish injects a warm spice aroma.
• This version has more warmth, tingling your senses like a whisky-spiced festive evening.

The Green Door

• Use a clear, unaged whisky or moonshine for a lighter body.
• Drop the charcoal, replace the garnish with a twist of lime for a vibrant hue and a zesty twist.
• Without the dark color, the cocktail becomes 'The Green Door', a lighter, more summer-friendly affair but with a kick!