A few months ago I backed a Kickstarter project by Elliot Blake which aimed to produce 100 custom cocktails, based on suggestions by the backers. For my reward, I requested a cocktail featuring Fernet as a key ingredient. The end result is a cocktail called “The Knife Tank”, inspired by my series of Knifetank games.

The cocktail is smooth and well balanced. I’m a huge Fernet-Branca fan, but it sounds like Elliot isn’t… which is probably what makes him the perfect person to design this cocktail. I’d just be like “Pour some Fernet over ice, stir and serve!” but Elliot came up with something everyone would like.
With Elliot’s permission, I’m reposting the recipe below:
- 1 oz Rittenhouse 100-Proof Rye Whiskey
- 1 1/2 oz Amaro Averna
- 1/4 oz Fernet Branca 5 or 6 mint leaves
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
In the bottom of a mixing glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with the whiskey, reserving one mint leaf for garnish. Add ice, Averna, Fernet Branca, and bitters, and stir until cold. Strain into a coupe and garnish with mint leaf.

Be sure to follow Elliot on Twitter and keep an eye out for his full book of cocktails, coming sometime this year maybe?
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