Morning Glory Cocktail

The Morning Glory cocktail is a historical drink with a complex flavor profile. Here's a recipe for this intriguing concoction:

Ingredients:

• 1 ounce rye whiskey
• 1 ounce VSOP Cognac (or any good quality brandy)
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (or 1 teaspoon simple syrup)
• 1/2 teaspoon orange curaçao (or Grand Marnier)
• 2 dashes aromatic bitters (Angostura or Boker's)
• 1 dash absinthe (optional, substitute with Pernod or pastis if unavailable)
• 1 to 2 ounces chilled club soda, to taste
• Lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Gather your ingredients: Since absinthe can be strong, start with just a dash and adjust based on your preference.

2. Chill and stir: Fill a mixing glass with ice. Add the rye whiskey, cognac, curaçao, bitters, absinthe (if using), and sugar or simple syrup. Stir well for at least 30 seconds to ensure everything is well combined and chilled.

3. Strain and top: Strain the concoction into a chilled old-fashioned glass filled with fresh ice. Top with club soda to your desired level of dilution.

4. Express the oils: Twist a lemon peel over the glass to express the oils and then drop it into the drink for garnish.

Tips:

• Sugar preference: If you prefer a sweeter drink, use a full teaspoon of simple syrup or sugar.

• Absinthe substitution: Pernod or pastis are good substitutes for absinthe if you can't find it or prefer a milder anise flavor.

• Club soda variation: For a touch of extra sparkle, you can top your drink with champagne instead of club soda.

• Historical twist: If you're feeling adventurous, you can try the original recipe which sometimes included a yolk from a raw egg. Safety precaution: Be aware that consuming raw eggs can carry a risk of salmonella poisoning, so proceed with caution at your own risk.

Enjoy your Morning Glory cocktail! This historical drink offers a unique combination of spiritous warmth, herbal and citrus notes, with a touch of sweetness, making it a complex and intriguing beverage.