Paul Kushner
The Fly South cocktail is a bold yet balanced Cognac drink that layers bright citrus, ripe berry sweetness, and subtle bitterness. Built on the rich depth of Hennessy VS Cognac, this cocktail highlights fresh lemon and raspberry while orange bitters add complexity. A foamy top gives it a smooth, silky finish, while a dried blood orange wheel garnish provides striking visual appeal and a touch of aromatic citrus. Elegant and flavorful, it’s a cocktail that feels equally suited for special occasions or an evening where you want something with depth and flair.
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Tasting Notes
The Fly South is a striking cocktail that balances boldness with refinement. Hennessy VS Cognac forms the heart of the drink, offering depth with oak, vanilla, and subtle spice. Fresh lemon juice adds bright acidity, while raspberry lends a juicy fruit note and natural sweetness. Orange bitters introduce layered citrus and herbal complexity, tying the flavors together. The foam topping softens the edges, creating a smooth, velvety texture that contrasts beautifully with the cognac’s richness. Finished with a dried blood orange wheel, the garnish enhances both aroma and presentation, giving the cocktail a vivid, seasonal flair.
Equipment and Glassware
The Fly South requires a few essential tools to achieve its polished look and balanced flavor. A cocktail shaker is key for chilling and combining the ingredients, as well as building the foamy layer. A jigger ensures precise measurements to maintain the balance between sweet, tart, and strong flavors. A fine mesh strainer helps remove pulp or seeds from the raspberries for a clean pour. A dry shake technique (shaking without ice first) is recommended if using egg white or aquafaba to produce a stable foam. For serving, a coupe or Nick & Nora glass showcases the garnish and foam elegantly.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Hennessy VS Cognac
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz raspberry syrup
- 2–3 dashes orange bitters
- 1 oz egg white
- Dried blood orange wheel (for garnish)
Instructions
- Add Cognac, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, orange bitters, and egg white into a cocktail shaker without ice.
- Dry shake for 10–15 seconds to create foam.
- Add ice and shake again until well chilled.
- Double strain into a rocks glass.
- Garnish with a dried blood orange wheel.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh raspberries for better color and flavor.
- Dry shaking first ensures a stable, lasting foam.
- Double strain to avoid pulp or seed texture.
- Swap egg white for aquafaba if a plant-based option is preferred.
- Add a dash of simple syrup if raspberries are especially tart.
- Chill serving glass in advance to keep the cocktail crisp.
- For garnish, dry your own blood orange slices in the oven for a homemade touch.
When to Serve
The Fly South is ideal for evenings where presentation and flavor matter most. Its bold cognac base makes it a fitting pre-dinner cocktail, stimulating the palate with a blend of citrus, fruit, and spice. The striking color, foam layer, and blood orange garnish make it perfect for gatherings where aesthetics are just as important as taste, such as dinner parties or celebratory toasts. Because it combines rich spirit character with refreshing fruit, it bridges the gap between strong, spirit-forward cocktails and lighter, approachable drinks. Serve it when you want a drink that feels festive and conversation-worthy.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Cognac: Hennessy VS (signature), Rémy Martin VSOP, or Courvoisier VS for alternatives.
- Bitters: Regans’ Orange Bitters No. 6, Angostura Orange, or Bitter Truth Orange Bitters.
- Foam: Fresh egg white, aquafaba, or Fee Foam bitters as reliable options.
- Raspberry: Fresh raspberries or high-quality syrups like Monin or Giffard.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh-squeezed for clean brightness.
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 2 oz Hennessy VS Cognac
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz raspberry syrup
- 2 –3 dashes orange bitters
- 1 oz egg white
- Dried blood orange wheel for garnish
Instructions
- Add Cognac, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, orange bitters, and egg white into a cocktail shaker without ice.
- Dry shake for 10–15 seconds to create foam.
- Add ice and shake again until well chilled.
- Double strain into a rocks glass.
- Garnish with a dried blood orange wheel.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use aquafaba as a substitute for egg white to make the cocktail vegan-friendly.
- For deeper berry flavor, muddle fresh raspberries into the syrup before shaking.
- Dehydrate blood orange slices ahead of time for an eye-catching garnish.
