Mr. Chill(i)

COCKTAIL INGREDIENTS:
- 20 ml Mezcal
- 40 ml Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur
- 20 ml Chilli Simple Syrup
- 20 ml Fresh Lime Juice

GARNISH:
- Salt
- Chilli Flakes

INSTRUCTIONS:
• Run a cut lime around the rim of the cocktail glass to moisten it.
• Line the rim with salt and chilli flakes.
• Combine all of the ingredients in a cocktail shaker.
• Add ice and shake until chilled.
• Double strain into a prepared chilled cocktail glass.

This is my first entry / attempt at Mr. Black cocktail challenge 2022.

I based this cocktail around the idea of pairing coffee and chilli notes. The first one is provided by Mr. Black Coffee liqueur, but to introduce the second one I made a chilli simple syrup from 200 ml of simple syrup and one Rawit chilli pepper. In order to add a bit more kick to the cocktail I decided to go with some smoky mezcal. Its vegetable notes complement and pair fantastically well with the chilli. To finish balancing the drink I chose a touch of lime juice, introducing some freshness and lightness to the cocktail.

Finally, I was experimenting with the garnish possibilities and I settled on the mix of salt and chilli flakes. Just be careful and do not overdo it with the salt. A small amount can go a long way improving the taste of the cocktail, but too much of it and it will overtake some of the gentler notes.

I really hope you enjoy it.