Cocktail Alchemy: The Merchant’s Sting

A bright, spiced twist on the classic Bee's Knees - The Merchant's Sting pairs the citrus fire of The Merchant's Flame with warm honey, subtle heat, and a lingering herbal finish. Ideal for golden hour sipping on the coast or by the firepit.

This is the kind of cocktail that makes you lean back, close your eyes, and think, “One more adventure.”

Recipe:

• 50 ml The Merchant's Flame gin
• 20 ml fresh lemon juice
• 15 ml honey syrup
• 5 ml blood orange juice (for depth and color)
• Dash of chili tincture or hot honey (optional, for extra sting)
• 3 dashes orange bitters
• Ice cubes
• Half-slice of dried blood orange (floated) or black pepper, gently crushed and placed on the side or clipped to the rim for garnish

Instructions:

• To make honey syrup, combine equal parts runny honey and hot water. Stir until fully mixed and cool before use. Keeps in the fridge for 1 week.
• Chill your glass in the freezer or with ice water. In a shaker, combine gin, lemon juice, honey syrup, blood orange juice, and orange bitters. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled. Double strain into the chilled glass.

Tasting Notes:

• Citrus-forward & refreshing: Lemon and blood orange balance the sweetness.
• Botanical complexity: The gin's long pepper and spice give it structure.
• Aromatic finish: Orange bitters and dried citrus elevate the nose.
• Accessible but elevated: Familiar enough for casual drinkers, layered enough for connoisseurs.

Pairing Suggestion:

• Pair with grilled halloumi, citrus-marinated chicken skewers, or a blood orange tart.