A Perfect Rye Whiskey Cocktail with Spiced Chocolate Bitters

Looking for a standout rye whiskey cocktail to impress your guests? This "High Volt" recipe combines the bold, spicy character of rye with the rich, aromatic notes of spiced chocolate bitters for an unforgettable fall drink. It's the perfect replacement for pumpkin spice everything, offering a complex yet balanced flavor profile that's both warming and refreshing. This cocktail truly highlights the versatility of a quality rye whiskey cocktail.

The "High Volt" Cocktail Recipe

This cocktail is a fantastic way to showcase a high-proof rye whiskey, which provides a deep, spicy backbone. The El Guapo™ Sweet Potato Syrup adds a touch of earthy sweetness, while the Becherovka contributes a unique herbal complexity. The lemon juice brightens everything up, and a generous dose of El Guapo™ Spiced Cocoa Tea Bitters infuses the drink with warm spices and a subtle chocolate aroma.

Ingredients

• 3 oz overproof rum or high proof rye whiskey (we used 13th Colony rye)
• 0.75 oz El Guapo™ Sweet Potato Syrup
• 0.5 oz Becherovka
• 0.75 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 4 dashes El Guapo™ Spiced Cocoa Tea Bitters
• Orange twist, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Pour the overproof rum or rye whiskey, El Guapo™ Sweet Potato Syrup, Becherovka, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and El Guapo™ Spiced Cocoa Tea Bitters into the shaker.
3. Shake all ingredients until the shaker is well chilled and frosty on the outside. This properly chills and dilutes the cocktail.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
5. Garnish with an orange twist. Before serving, express the oils from the orange peel by twisting it over the glass.

Tips for Using Spiced Chocolate Bitters 

• Balance is Key: Spiced chocolate bitters are potent. Start with just a few dashes and add more to taste. They are designed to complement, not overpower, the other ingredients.
• Pairing: These bitters work wonderfully in spirit-forward drinks like this one, as well as in cocktails with coffee or rum. Their warm spice and chocolate notes also pair well with rich desserts.
• The Right Garnish: The orange twist is an ideal garnish here. The citrus oil complements both the spiciness of the rye and the notes in the spiced chocolate bitters.

Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What's the difference between rye and bourbon?

 Rye whiskey is made with a mash bill of at least 51% rye grain, giving it a spicier, drier flavor. Bourbon, on the other hand, is made with at least 51% corn, resulting in a sweeter, smoother profile. For this rye whiskey cocktail, the spiciness is a desirable quality.

Can I substitute the Becherovka?

Becherovka is a unique Czech herbal liqueur. While it adds a specific flavor, you can substitute it with another herbal liqueur like a small amount of allspice dram or even a little maple syrup to maintain the flavor profile.

What are cocktail bitters?

Cocktail bitters are highly concentrated, aromatic infusions of herbs, spices, fruits, and roots. They are used in small amounts to add complexity and balance to a drink. Spiced chocolate bitters specifically add layers of spice and cocoa.