Andalusian Afternoon

Low-ABV cocktails shouldn't feel like a compromise, and this sherry-based sipper proves it. The Andalusian Afternoon clocks in around 12% ABV, making it the kind of drink you can actually enjoy in the afternoon without writing off the rest of your day. Amontillado sherry brings its signature nutty, saline character to the glass, while Dolin dry vermouth adds layers of alpine herbs and gentle bitterness. Fresh lemon and orange juices brighten everything up, cutting through the oxidative richness with just enough acidity to keep you coming back for another sip. That small barspoon of orgeat is doing serious work here, its almond sweetness connecting all the dots between the sherry's nuttiness and the citrus's zing. This is what you want around 4 PM when you're ready to shift gears but not ready to commit to a full-strength martini. It's got enough complexity to hold your attention and enough restraint to let you have two. Mix one up next time you need something light but interesting.