By Thomas Eslinger (Death & Co LA, 2022)

Quiet Storm

"The Quiet Storm is a reverse manhattan, meaning that the base is sweet vermouth and the modifier is scotch. The flavors of the drink were inspired by a rhubarb tart: The vermouth brings notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and cardamom, as well as a juiciness that boosts the rhubarb liqueur. The duo of whiskies rounds out the cocktails: Jura adds a toasty flavor reminiscent of a tart shell, while the smoky Islay scotch acts like a sprinkle of smoked salt on top of the dessert, giving it a hit of smokiness and a touch of salinity that ties all of the flavors together. " —TE

1½ ounces Cocchi Vermouth di Torino 
1 ounce Jura 10-year single-malt scotch
½ ounce Giffard rhubarb liqueur
1 teaspoon Port Charlotte 10-year Islay single-malt scotch
1 dash celery bitters

Stir all the ingredients with ice, then strain into a chilled Nick & Nora glass. No garnish.