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Cocktail Club: Impress your guests with this sophisticated, smooth, chocolatey concoction
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Cocktail Club: Impress your guests with this sophisticated, smooth, chocolatey concoction

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by Megan Burns
23rd Nov 2024
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We asked world-class mixologist Cal Byrne to share some of his favourite cocktail recipes for entertaining, and this intriguing yet effortless drink is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

It’s the time of year when we love to have people over. Whether it’s for a full-blown Christmas gathering, or just a few friends to chat over drinks, you want to serve something that feels appropriately festive. 

That’s why we asked world-class Irish mixologist and Diageo Head of Advocacy, Cal Byrne, for his expert recommendations to see you through the season. 

The 1942 Rosita is the perfect example – a twist on a classic Negroni with the addition of cacao bitters and a flourish of orange to give rich, smooth flavour, while its ruby hue is fitting for the festive season.

“Tequila is commonly seen as a summer style spirit,” Cal points out, “but it can be used just as well as whiskey or gin in winter!” He explains how its flavour profile is enhanced by this combination.

“In this alternate Negroni, the addition of cacao bitters deepens the profile whilst connecting to the agave at the heart of the tequila. Don Julio 1942 Tequila’s 18-month ageing gives it a smooth, rich texture with silky notes of chocolate and vanilla on the palette.” 

Cal has also chosen an outfit to pair with this cocktail, encapsulating its mood perfectly.

The outfit I’ve paired with the 1942 Rosita is both elegant and warm, aiming to keep me cosy in the winter months whilst staying sharp and sophisticated, just like this cocktail. A long navy trench coat by Moss Menswear over a turtleneck sweater balances both function and style. 

“A pair of Zara pleated high waist slacks finish off the sophisticated look, while a pair of Solomon white runners adds a pop of both causality and brightness to the winter look. This outfit is my go-to for any event or occasion in the winter months.”

1942 Rosita

To make: 

30ml Don Julio 1942 Tequila

20ml Valentia Island Ór vermouth 

20ml Campari 

2 dashes of chocolate bitters 

Add all ingredients to a mixing glass full of ice, stir to combine, pour into whiskey glass with ice, and garnish with orange dark chocolate.

Stay tuned for our ongoing series in partnership with Diageo – Cocktail Club – for much more of Cal and his top-tier recipes and fashion inspiration to come. Visit diageo.com to learn more about their premium brands.

Please visit www.drinkaware.ie for more information on how to drink responsibly.

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