Cave Creek

The CAVE CREEK cocktail has a similar theme as the Boulevardier, but balances the Campari with grenadine, and substitutes rye and Scotch whisky for bourbon. Nate Dumas, at the Shanty (NY Distilling Co., Brooklyn, NY), originally mixed it to be served straight up, but thought it too thick and switched to rocks in a Collins glass. It’s an interesting twist on a Mister Katz’s Rock & Rye-inspired cocktail. My preference is to serve it straight up, icy cold.

Requirements: Rye whiskey (Mister Katz’s Rock & Rye preferred), Scotch whisky (Glenlivet 12-year aged preferred), grenadine, Campari, lemon juice, orange twist.

• 1.25 oz. rye whiskey
• 1 oz. Scotch whisky
• .75 oz. fresh lemon juice
• .5 oz. high-quality grenadine
• .25 oz. Campari
• orange twist garnish

Shake all ingredients in an ice-filled shaker and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with an orange twist.

Comments: When I’ve tried it, I had a different rye on hand instead of the preferred and did just fine. I wouldn’t hold back on giving the Cave Creek a try for lack of having Katz’s Rock & Rye. Also, I’ve tried both versions and my straight up preference is stronger, but tastier. If you’re like me and forget what goes into a Cave Creek, think of it as a Scotch & Rye Boulevardier.