For coffee lovers looking for an alternative to the standard vodka espresso martini, the Black Gauntlet offers a complex, agave-forward twist. Created by legendary bartender Gaz Regan, this cocktail pairs the earthy, roasted notes of tequila with rich, salted espresso and bright lemon oils.
The Black Gauntlet
Ingredients
- Premium Tequila (Blanco or Reposado)1.5 oz
- Gaz Regan's Salted Espresso Martini Syrup (or 1 oz fresh espresso + 1 oz salted simple syrup)2.0 oz
- Large Lemon Peel (for expressing oils)1 peel
Instructions
- Combine the tequila and espresso syrup in a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir briskly for 20 seconds to properly chill and dilute the cocktail.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled coupette or martini glass.
- Take the lemon peel, hold it over the glass, and pinch it to express the citrus oils over the surface of the drink. Discard the peel.
The Importance of the Lemon Peel Expression
Expressing the lemon oils over the top of the drink is crucial. The bright, aromatic citrus oils cut through the heavy, roasted notes of the coffee and the earthy agave, providing a beautifully balanced olfactory experience before you even take a sip. Do not drop the peel into the drink, as the pith can add unwanted bitterness.