CleverRoot

7 4 | t h e c l e v e r r o o t El Luchador Organic Tequila Blanco 110 and Cráneo Organic Mezcal now serve as the portfolio's newest entries. Cráneo, a single-estate mezcal made with 100% agave espadín, is a collabora- tive effort between Ravandi and several master mezcaleros. The tequila, mean- while, is inspired by the famed masked wrestlers of Mexico and is a compara- tively muscular expression at 55% ABV. The Experience On a recent fall afternoon, The Clever Root sat down with Ravandi and Malibu- based master mixologist Matthew Bian- caniello to explore the versatility of the 123 Spirits portfolio through the recipes featured on this page. Biancaniello, who just opened Mon-Li, a 14-seat omakase cocktail and small-plates bar at the ex- clusive Calamigos Beach Club, jumped at the chance to incorporate Ravandi's singular spirits into his striking libations. Both passionate about the concept of terroir, the men approach their respec- tive professions in a way that showcases spirits and cocktails as gastronomic experiences unto themselves or, when paired with food, as principal players in the multi-act theater of dining. For more information, visit 123spirits.com. ■cr Peacock Feathers 2 oz. Saint Lucian sea moss–infused Cráneo Mezcal* ¾ oz. fresh lime juice ½ oz. raspberry-flavored white balsamic vinegar ½ oz. agave syrup Combine ingredients in a tin with ice and shake. Strain into a whiskey- tasting glass without ice and garnish with two peacock feathers. Old Fashioned 2 oz. 123 Organic Tequila Tres infused with shiitake, chanterelle, and lobster mushrooms* ½ oz. L'Orgeat Liqueur Barspoon of candy cap mushroom–infused Angostura bitters* Combine ingredients in a rocks glass and stir with a large ice cube. Garnish with smoked tomatoes. Passion Fruit 6 oz. Cráneo Organic Mezcal 2 oz. fresh lime juice 2 oz. agave syrup 2 oz. fresh passion fruit pulp 6 wild bay leaves Blend all ingredients and ice in a Vitamix. Pour the mixture into a hollowed- out passion fruit that sits on a jigger and garnish with a passion fruit flower. Makes six cocktails. Egg on Top 2 oz. poblano chile–infused El Luchador Organic Tequila Blanco 110* ¾ oz. lime juice ¾ oz. agave syrup 4 Sungold tomatoes 2 large Cuban oregano leaves Muddle all ingredients except for the tequila. Add tequila and ice, then shake and double-strain into a Quaffer Double Bubble Layered Shot Glass. Garnish with a pheasant or quail egg. Ravandi also serves as 123 Spirits' Master Distiller. *Matthew Biancanello's "Rule of Infusions": Add ingredients to fill ¾ of the vessel in use, cover with desired alcohol, and let sit for ten days.

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