Fireside Chat Cocktail

1.5 oz. Smooth Ambler Bourbon (or other craft bourbon)
.5 oz. Amaro (Ramazotti Amaro or Meletti Amaro)
.25 oz. John D. Taylor’s Velvet Falernum
1.5 oz. apple cider
.5 oz. Cinnamon Syrup (see recipe below)
.75 oz. fresh-squeezed lemon juice
Fresh orange zest for garnish

Cinnamon Syrup:

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
4 cinnamon sticks, broken into large pieces

To make the syrup, bring all ingredients to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for 8-10 minutes until sugar has dissolved, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and let cool. Discard cinnamon sticks, strain into a clean glass jar and cover. Store refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.

To make the cocktail, place all ingredients in a shaker filled with ice. Seal and shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds and strain into an ice-filled Collins glass. Garnish with fresh orange zest.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Bar Manager Johnny Schaefer of Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails, a contemporary American restaurant in Jacksonville, Florida.