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Mata Hari

The Mata Hari makes reference to the beautiful exotic dancer and alleged double agent of World War I who was wrongfully executed for spying and became the archetype for the term ā€œfemme fatale.ā€ In Malay, ā€œmata hariā€ is the term for the sun, literally ā€œeye of dawn.ā€ This sultry cocktail is a feast for all the senses; stunning to the eye, seductive on the nose, and orgasmic to the taste. We use Employees Only original Chai-Infused Sweet Vermouth with cognac, POM Wonderful pomegranate juice, and garnish with dried rose buds, which enhance its bouquet. The result is a cocktail as exotic and (supposedly) dangerous as its namesake.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    makes 1 drink

Ingredients

1Ā 1/4 ounces Louis Royer Force 53 VSOP cognac
1 ounce Chai-Infused Sweet Vermouth (page 159)
3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
3/4 ounce pomegranate juice
1/2 ounce simple syrup (page 154)
3 dried organic rose buds, for garnish

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Pour the cognac, vermouth, juices, and syrup into a mixing glass. Add large cold ice cubes and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with rose buds.

  2. tasting notes

    Step 2

    Dominant Flavors: deep red pomegranates with roses on the nose

    Step 3

    Body: rich, full mouthfeel

    Step 4

    Dryness: medium

    Step 5

    Complexity: high

    Step 6

    Accentuating or Contrasting Flavors: chai, cinnamon, and clove interweave

    Step 7

    Finish: lingering, black tea, spicy

  3. Step 8

    Glass: cocktail

Cover of Speakeasy by Jason Kosmas and Dushan Zaric featuring a coupe glass with a brown cocktail and lemon wheel garnish.
Reprinted with permission from Speakeasy: The Employees Only Guide to Classic Cocktails Reimagined by Jason Kosmas and Dushan Zaric, Ā© 2010 Ten Speed Press. Buy the full book from Amazon or Bookshop.
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