The Optimist

Method

Hawthorne bar manager Jared Sadoian crafted this heady mix of liquors featuring sherry as the low-key superstar ingredient, noting that it "brings a ton of flavor and acid to a cocktail without overpowering other ingredients."

• 2 ounces Lustau Palo Cortado Peninsula Sherry
• 1/2 ounce Amaro Nonino
• 1/2 ounce maple syrup
• 1 barspoon E.H. Taylor Barrel Strength 100 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• 1 dash mole bitters, such as Bittermens Xocolatl Mole Cocktail Bitters
• Orange peel for garnish

Stir together all ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice. Strain into a Nick and Nora cocktail glass and garnish with an orange twist.

Yield

1 cocktail