Monte Carlo Cocktail Recipe

The Monte Carlo is a delightful yet under-appreciated whiskey cocktail known for its simplicity and balanced flavor profile. Here's what you'll need to make this classic drink:

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces rye whiskey (Choose a rye whiskey you enjoy. A high-rye whiskey can add a nice spicy kick.)
• 1 ounce Bénédictine (This herbal liqueur is key to the drink's unique flavor profile)
• 1 dash Angostura bitters (optional)
• Orange peel, for garnish

Instructions:

1. For the best experience, pre-chill an Old Fashioned glass or rocks glass. Fill it with ice and let it sit for a few minutes. Discard the ice before building your drink.
2. If you prefer a frothier drink, add the rye whiskey, Bénédictine, and Angostura bitters (if using) to a shaker filled with ice. Shake well for about 15 seconds.
3. If you shook the ingredients, strain the mixture into your chilled glass. If you prefer a less frothy drink, simply stir the rye whiskey, Bénédictine, and bitters (if using) together with ice in the glass for about 15 seconds.
4. Express an orange peel over the drink to release the oils and add a citrusy aroma (discard the peel).

Tips:

• Bénédictine is a French herbal liqueur made with a secret blend of 27 herbs and spices, including saffron, cinnamon, fir cones, and juniper. It adds a complex and slightly sweet flavor to the drink. If you can't find Bénédictine, you can substitute another herbal liqueur like Meletti or Underberg, but the taste will be slightly different.
• Angostura bitters are optional but add a touch of complexity and aromatic depth to the cocktail.
• Experiment with the amount of bitters to find your preference. Start with 1 dash and add more for a stronger bitter character.
• A high-quality orange peel is essential for expressing the oils over the drink.
• You can adjust the proportions of rye whiskey and Bénédictine slightly to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a little more Bénédictine.