Served at my book launch, the rum and hibiscus in this cocktail evoke the tropical setting of Monsoon Mansion. Honey brings the sweetness and lemon the bright hope of childhood, but chocolate bitters deepen the drink to represent the darkness of betrayal and bittersweet survival.
The drink was created by my friend, cocktail enthusiast Leslie Stroud-Romero.
A refreshing, tropical cocktail with a hint of darkness to pair with Cinelle Barnes's MONSOON MANSION.
Ingredients
2 ounces hibiscus tea (steep according to package directions and cool)
2 1/2 ounces aged rum
3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 ounces honey syrup (simmer equal amounts of honey and water in a small pot until combined; cool)
2 dashes chocolate bitters
Instructions
Add all ingredients to cocktail shaker filled with ice (or jar in a pinch). Shake, then strain into cocktail or martini glass.