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Cocktail History
The Mocha Spiked Horchata is a Novel Nightcaps original cocktail that was created as a variation of a similar recipe from Winter Drinks: 70 Essential Cold-Weather Cocktails by the editors of PUNCH. The original called for a rum or whiskey base with one listed in the description and another listed in the recipe itself, but this version calls for tequila because horchata is often associated with Spanish culture. It also adds in a few dashes of chocolate bitters to complement the coffee and cinnamon flavors.
Cocktail Ingredients
To make this cocktail, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Horchata: This is a creamy beverage made with various ingredients depending on the culture. I used Licor 43 Horchata.
Tequila Reposado: This is a type of tequila made in Mexico with blue agave, sugar, and alcohol that is aged from two to twelve months. I used Casamigos Tequila Reposado.
Coffee Liqueur: This is a liqueur made with coffee, spices, sugar, and alcohol. I used Mr. Black Spirits Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur.
Chocolate Bitters: This is a food product made with chocolate, botanicals, herbs, and alcohol. I used Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Bitters.
Ground Cinnamon: This is a spice. I used Simply Organic Ground Cinnamon.
Bartending Tools
To make this cocktail, you’ll need the following bar tools:
Jigger: This is used to measure and pour ingredients. I used the Japanese jigger from the A Bar Above 14-Piece Silver Bar Set.
Bar Spoon: This is used to stir ingredients. I used the Barfly Stainless Steel Teardrop Bar Spoon.
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Tasting Notes
This cocktail has the following flavor profile:
• Appearance: Creamy white color
• Aroma: Cinnamon and coffee
• Taste: Creamy herbal flavor with agave and vanilla
• Finish: Rich coffee and spices
Kendall’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kendall’s Take: “This was also my first time trying horchata, and I am a fan! I wasn’t sure what to expect when I opted for a tequila base instead of rum or bourbon, but the agave spirit works very well in this recipe. The taste was pretty straightforward and unoffensive, with cream and cinnamon being the prominent flavors and a bit of tequila coming through while held in the mouth. If you’re a fan of horchata, whip this up! The Mocha Spiced Horchata very tasty. And if you’ve never tried it like I hadn’t, this is a good first cocktail to try it in.”
Recipe
Mocha Spiked Horchata
The Mocha Spiked Horchata is a Novel Nightcaps original cocktail that was created as a variation of a similar recipe from Winter Drinks: 70 Essential Cold-Weather Cocktails by the editors of PUNCH. The original called for a rum or whiskey base with one listed in the description and another listed in the recipe itself, but this version calls for tequila because horchata is often associated with Spanish culture. It also adds in a few dashes of chocolate bitters to complement the coffee and cinnamon flavors.
Ingredients
Method
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Add horchata, tequila, coffee liqueur, bitters, and cubed ice to a lowball glass.
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Stir for 5-10 seconds.
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Garnish with ground cinnamon.
