This distant cousin of the White Russian comes from Beau Burtnick at Kask in Portland, Orgeon. It’s our favorite way to introduce folks to the earthy magic of Cynar (an artichoke amaro that doesn’t actually taste all that much like artichokes). The rich coffee liqueur and sweet mezcal whipped cream soften the vegetal blow, while vodka helps strengthen the mix without upsetting the delicate balance of flavors.
Kahlua is a perfectly serviceable coffee liqueur, but if you have access to a craft coffee liqueur like Bittermens or St. George, it’ll shine in this recipe.
You don’t have to use Cynar, by the way. Any medium-bodied amaro, like Averna, will be just dandy here.
