“When I am thinking savory for a cocktail, I think ‘chewy’ flavors, like a savory bite of food that lingers,” says Dear Irving‘s Meaghan Dorman, in response to the request for a cocktail that’s strong and savory.
To accomplish this, Dorman leans toward warmth and spice—the latter a go-to in the toolkit for this flavor profile, whether in infused syrups, spirits or as a garnish, as it amplifies the savory effect of any drink. In the Ol’ Pepper, the combination of chipotle honey and biting rye (Dorman prefers Rittenhouse) offers up a one-two punch of spice, while a dash of worcestershire provides a bonus hit of umami.
