Paul Kushner
The Golden Hare is a bold and sophisticated cocktail that marries rich, earthy flavors with a touch of brightness. The deep warmth of cognac pairs seamlessly with the natural sweetness of carrot juice, creating a smooth and unexpected base. Fresh lemon juice and simple syrup bring a balanced citrus tang, while tarragon introduces a subtle herbal complexity with its delicate anise-like notes.
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A turmeric-sugar rim adds a hint of spice and an extra layer of refinement, making this cocktail as visually striking as it is flavorful. Ideal for those who enjoy unique, well-balanced drinks, the Flying Ace is a true standout.
Tasting Notes
The Golden Hare is an earthy, citrusy, and elegantly spiced cocktail that combines the warm richness of cognac with the fresh brightness of lemon and carrot juice. The simple syrup and tarragon introduce a delicate herbal sweetness that enhances the drink’s complexity.
The sugar and turmeric rim adds a lightly spiced, aromatic touch, while the tiny carrot garnish provides a whimsical nod to the cocktail’s natural elements. This drink is a beautifully balanced mix of sophistication and playful creativity.
Equipment and Glassware
To craft the Golden Hare, you’ll need a cocktail shaker to mix and chill the ingredients thoroughly. A jigger ensures accurate measurements, while a fine mesh strainer helps create a smooth texture. A coupe glass is ideal for serving, allowing the flavors to shine while highlighting the drink’s golden-orange hue. A small plate is necessary for preparing the sugar and turmeric rim, and a sharp knife is useful for cutting the lemon wedge and carrot garnish.
Ingredients
- 2 oz cognac
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz carrot juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 0.5 tbsp fresh tarragon
- Sugar and turmeric for rimming
- Lemon wedge for rimming
- Tiny carrot for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass: Run a lemon wedge around the rim of a coupe glass, then dip it into a mixture of sugar and turmeric for a vibrant, spiced rim.
- Mix the Cocktail: In a shaker, combine cognac, lemon juice, carrot juice, simple syrup, and fresh tarragon.
- Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain and Serve: Strain into the prepared coupe glass, using a fine mesh strainer if desired for a smoother texture.
- Garnish: Add a tiny carrot for a whimsical finishing touch.
Pro Tips
- Use a high-quality cognac with fruity and vanilla notes to complement the citrus and herbal flavors.
- Shake thoroughly to ensure the flavors are well integrated and the tarragon releases its herbal essence.
- If using store-bought carrot juice, opt for a cold-pressed version for the freshest taste.
- Adjust the simple syrup based on sweetness preference—reduce slightly for a more tart-forward sip.
- For an even more herbaceous twist, gently muddle the tarragon before adding the other ingredients.
When to Serve
The Golden Hare is an elegant yet unexpected cocktail, perfect for sophisticated gatherings, brunches, and pre-dinner aperitifs. Its vibrant color and fresh, herbal complexity make it a fantastic choice for spring and fall celebrations, garden parties, and mixology-forward cocktail menus.
Whether enjoyed as a refined evening sip or a creative cocktail for an adventurous palate, this drink always makes an impression.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For the best experience, select a smooth, well-aged cognac like Rémy Martin VSOP, Hennessy VS, or Courvoisier VSOP. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is a must, while organic carrot juice enhances the natural sweetness. When choosing simple syrup, homemade is best, but store-bought brands like Liber & Co. Classic Simple Syrup work well. Fresh tarragon should be bright green and aromatic for the best herbal infusion.
Similar Cocktails
- Strawberry Lemon Drop Cocktail
- Guava Sidecar
- Hennessey Lemon Drop
- Black Lemon Drop Martini
- Blue Peep Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 oz cognac
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz carrot juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 0.5 tbsp fresh tarragon
- Sugar and turmeric for rimming
- Lemon wedge for rimming
- Tiny carrot for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass: Run a lemon wedge around the rim of a coupe glass, then dip it into a mixture of sugar and turmeric for a vibrant, spiced rim.
- Mix the Cocktail: In a shaker, combine cognac, lemon juice, carrot juice, simple syrup, and fresh tarragon.
- Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain and Serve: Strain into the prepared coupe glass, using a fine mesh strainer if desired for a smoother texture.
- Garnish: Add a tiny carrot for a whimsical finishing touch.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Lightly muddle the tarragon before shaking to extract more of its herbal aroma.
- Use freshly pressed carrot juice for the best flavor and a natural sweetness.
- Adjust the simple syrup to taste depending on the sweetness of the carrot juice.
