Artichoke Hold Cocktail Recipe

The Artichoke Hold is a modern cocktail that embodies the spirit of experimentation. It's a creation that appeals to those who appreciate complex flavors and aren't afraid to try something out of the ordinary. The cocktail is a harmonious blend of the boldness of Jamaican rum and the unique bitterness of Cynar, an artichoke-based bitter liqueur. Its inception is not tied to a specific bartender or bar, but rather it's a product of the craft cocktail movement where bartenders across the globe push the boundaries of traditional mixology.

The Artichoke Hold offers a complex flavor profile. It starts with a sweet, floral note from the St. Germain, followed by the earthy bitterness of Cynar. The Jamaican rum adds a robust, spicy kick, while the lime juice and orgeat provide a tangy sweetness that balances the drink. It's a cocktail that's both bold and nuanced, with a lingering finish that invites another sip.

• The use of Cynar, an artichoke-based liqueur, is what gives this cocktail its distinctive name and bitter edge.
• Jamaican rum, like Smith & Cross, is known for its high proof and rich, funky flavor, which stands up well in this cocktail.
• Orgeat, an almond syrup, adds a nutty sweetness that complements the herbal notes of the other ingredients.

1. Add 0.75 oz Jamaican rum, 0.75 oz Cynar, 0.5 oz St. Germain, 0.75 oz lime juice, and 0.5 oz orgeat into a cocktail shaker.
2. Add a small scoop of ice to the shaker and shake lightly to combine and chill the ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture over crushed ice into a rocks glass.
4. Top with more crushed ice if needed.
5. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig.

• For a more pronounced nutty flavor, consider toasting the almonds before making homemade orgeat syrup.
• When shaking the cocktail, a short and vigorous shake is enough to chill and dilute the drink without over-diluting it.
• Always use fresh lime juice for the best flavor, as bottled lime juice can taste flat and artificial.

Appetizers

• Charcuterie board: The savoriness of meats like prosciutto will complement the bitter and herbal notes of the Cynar.
• Cheese plate: Choose aged cheeses such as gouda or cheddar which will contrast nicely with the sweet and floral St. Germain.

Main Courses

• Grilled meats: The caramelized flavors from grilling marry well with the richness of Jamaican rum.
• Pasta dishes: Think creamy Alfredo or a simple Aglio e Olio that won't overpower the complex flavors of the cocktail.

Desserts

• Almond-based pastries: The nuttiness of almonds will enhance the orgeat syrup used in the cocktail.
• Citrusy desserts: Lime-based treats can match the acidity and freshness in the drink.

• If Smith & Cross is unavailable, any high-proof, full-bodied Jamaican rum can be used as a substitute.
• In the absence of St. Germain, another elderflower liqueur or elderflower syrup can be used, though the flavor profile will slightly change.
• Orgeat can be replaced with almond syrup, but homemade orgeat is preferred for its richer flavor.

Spicy Artichoke Hold

• Ingredients: Add a small slice of jalapeño to the shaker.
• Recipe: Shake the jalapeño slice with the rest of the ingredients to infuse some heat into the drink.
• Taste Change: This twist introduces a spicy kick that contrasts and complements the bitterness of Cynar and the sweetness of orgeat and elderflower.

Artichoke Hold with a Herbal Touch

• Ingredients: Add a small handful of fresh basil instead of mint.
• Recipe: Muddle the basil leaves lightly in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
• Taste Change: Basil will bring a more herbaceous and slightly peppery dimension to the cocktail, contrasting nicely with the sweet elements.

Berry Artichoke Hold

• Ingredients: Add a few fresh blackberries to the shaker.
• Recipe: Muddle the blackberries before shaking all ingredients together.
• Taste Change: Blackberries add a fruity sweetness and a touch of tartness, which pairs well with the citrus and complements the deep flavours of the rum.