(Note: this post was originally published on January 23, 2020. It has since been updated with a few tweaks and new photos.)
Short days, long nights, cold temperatures, and gray skies definitely call for a cozy cocktail. This unique gin and cherry cocktail is one we come back to again and again at home because it's comforting, complex, and easy to make. It's perfect for sipping in front of the fire while the snow falls outside.
I named this aged gin cocktail based on its two primary ingredients: Tom Cat gin and Luxardo cherry liqueur. Of course the name has a cartoon reference too, which I think is fitting given that this drink doesn't really fit into a traditional box. It's loosely inspired by the Martinez, which is an aged gin Manhattan, although it also has elements of a gin Old Fashioned. I'm a big believer that cocktails should be fun and don't need to adhere to strict rules, and this one is definitely light-hearted and unique.
This cocktail unites two of my favorite ingredients: Barr Hill Tom Cat Gin and Luxardo. The Tom Cat is an aged gin made by Caledonia Spirits in Vermont; its complex, warming, and comforting (check out this Ginger Bee's Knees for another Barr Hill Tom Cat recipe). Luxardo is an Italian cherry liqueur that is earthy and luscious. You can find Luxardo in numerous other cocktail recipes here on the blog including Cinnamon Cherry Paloma, Cherry Mint Julep, and The Last Word.
Thanks to the big flavors in those ingredients, this aged gin cocktail is unique and complex. It's floral and herbaceous due to the flavors of the gin, but also has whiskey-like notes thanks to the fact that the gin is aged. The Luxardo is earthy and a bit bitter, making it the perfect complement to the gin. A dash of ginger beer provides some cozy sweetness and makes it feel celebratory. Overall, it's a very interesting and seductive combination.
This drink straddles a few different traditional cocktails. It's vaguely like a Manhattan thanks to the earthy flavors and cherry garnish, sort of like an Old Fashion due to its simplicity, and maybe even a bit like a Negroni based on the combination of gin and something bitter. In my opinion, this gin and cherry cocktail has some of the best qualities of each of those classics.
Here's what you'll need for this Barr Hill Tom Cat recipe, as well as some thoughts, tips, and possible substitutions. If you make any substitutions, I'd love to hear about it in the comments section below.
We come back to this gin and cherry cocktail again and again at home. It has been a staple in our house during the fall and winter for years, and one that we've shared many times with friends and family. Because there are just a few simple ingredients, it's easy to make for a crowd but still feels special and celebratory.
I'm excited for you to try this combination; it's a great example of how two ingredients can really elevate each other. Just like Tom and Jerry in the cartoon, this Tom and Cherry aged gin cocktail is a fun and interesting pairing.
It makes me so happy to hear from you and see your creations! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think about this recipe. If you post a photo on Instagram, hashtag #TheRogueBrusselSprout and tag me (@TheRogueBrusselSprout) in the post text so that I'm sure to see it.
As with all my cocktail recipes, please enjoy responsibly!
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This seductive and cozy aged gin cocktail is perfect for sipping on a chilly evening. It features a simple but unique combination of Tom Cat gin, cherry liqueur, and ginger beer.
Did you make this recipe? Did you make substitutions? How did you serve it? Any helpful tips? Please share your thoughts, since these insights are really useful to both me and to other readers.
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