The Cheshire Cat is a unique and tasty cocktail that’ll put a smile on your face.
Over the Easter weekend, particularly on Sunday, I just lazed about. Lounging on the couch, eating snacks, and watching movie after movie. A little holiday marathon of cinematic classics, if you will. And the cat was loafing with me, perched on my lap and staring at the television with eyes half open.
That is, until I popped on the animated Disney classic Alice in Wonderland. My feline friend first perked up when Alice’s petite little kitty Dinah appeared at the beginning, but it was once the famous and iconic Cheshire Cat began his shenanigans that my squishy buddy really started to pay attention. And when the magical, smiling, and slightly sinister character wasn’t on screen, the cat on my lap would look up at me with the happiest of faces. Which in turn made me grin, not unlike the Cheshire Cat.
You can’t have a wonderfully relaxing day like that without an afternoon tipple, and today’s cocktail fits the bill. Named (of course) the Cheshire Cat, this mixture combines a few ingredients you might not normally have on your shelf, but a quick trip to your local liquor store can remedy that.
Unique and full-bodied, this Cheshire Cat will most assuredly make you smirk after every sip.
What is the best alcohol to use in a Cheshire Cat Cocktail?
A nice cognac, such as a Hennessy, Rémy Martin, Martell, or Courvoisier, will be the primary spirit base in this mixture, along with a little whiskey. You probably have a favorite whiskey brand or style, and I myself enjoy a sharp and spicy American rye. These are melded with some Cherry Heering, a potent and robust-tasting cherry liqueur, and Punt e Mes vermouth, which is bittersweet with orange notes.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces cognac
- 2/3 ounce whiskey
- 1/2 ounce Cherry Heering
- 1/2 ounce Punt e Mes vermouth
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon syrup
- Sprig of rosemary and a lemon zest twist for garnish
Instructions
- Add all ingredients into a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir steadily for about 30 seconds to chill and strain into a rocks glass with one large ice cube.
- Garnish with a sprig of rosemary and a lemon zest twist.
Nutrition
What glassware and garnish are used?
Put one large ice cube in a rocks glass, pour your cocktail in and garnish with a rosemary sprig and a twist of lemon.
Is there a substitute for Punt e Mes?
A little searching on the internet and you’ll find folks suggesting mixing some sweet vermouth and Campari together, in case you can’t find any Punt e Mes in your neck of the woods.
Other Cocktails Similar To The Cheshire Cat
The Cheshire Cat is one of those drinks that has you thinking “wow” after your first sip. And if it sparked an interest in other recipes that are a little richer than the usual fare, check out some of these cocktails below, and give them a try tonight.
- Vieux Carré – Close to tonight’s beverage, this drink is dark and smooth.
- Negroni – A bittersweet and strong classic, comprised of Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth.
- Martinez – The link between the Manhattan and the Martini.
- Cognac Old Fashioned – A flavorful, delectable take on a legendary libation.
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