Paul Kushner
The Witch Kiss is a bold and flavorful cocktail that brings together a mix of fruity, citrus, and smoky notes in every sip. It begins with silver tequila for a smooth base, paired with Chambord, which adds a rich berry sweetness. Fresh lime juice balances the flavors with its tart brightness, while a dash of orange bitters deepens the taste. Ginger beer is poured on top for fizz and spice, along with a splash of sparkling orange and pomegranate soda to enhance the color and sweetness. Finished with slightly burned dried mint leaves, this cocktail offers a smoky aroma and memorable flair.
Tasting Notes
The Witch Kiss is a moody, citrus-forward cocktail that blends the earthy warmth of tequila with dark berry sweetness and subtle spice. The Chambord adds depth with black raspberry richness, while lime juice and orange bitters keep the drink bright and balanced. A hint of brown sugar rounds out the edges, giving a smooth caramel undertone. Topped with orange-pomegranate soda and ginger beer, it finishes with a light fizz and gentle warmth. The final smoky mint garnish creates an aromatic touch that ties everything together, resulting in a cocktail that’s refreshing, layered, and strikingly atmospheric.
Equipment and Glassware
To make the Witch Kiss, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for mixing and chilling the ingredients. A jigger ensures precise measurement, keeping the balance between sweetness and acidity. Use a bar spoon to stir in the sparkling soda after shaking, and a strainer for a smooth pour over ice. A rocks glass works best for presentation, allowing room for the fizz and garnish. For the signature smoky finish, a lighter or culinary torch helps gently char the mint leaves. Keep your glass chilled before serving to enhance the cocktail’s refreshing sparkle and deep, fruity aroma.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz silver tequila
- 1 dashes orange bitters
- 0.5 oz Chambord
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 sugar cube
- Orange & pomegranate sparkling soda
- Ginger beer for topping
- Orange peel for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the silver tequila, Chambord, lime juice, orange bitters, brown sugar, and sugar cube.
- Shake vigorously to ensure the sugar dissolves and the ingredients are well mixed.
- Add a splash of orange and pomegranate sparkling soda to the shaker, and gently stir to combine.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top the cocktail with ginger beer to add a refreshing fizz.
- For the final touch, slightly burn the dried mint leaves with a lighter or match, then garnish the drink with the smoky, aromatic leaves.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Witch Kiss!
Pro Tips
- Shake firmly to help dissolve the sugar completely.
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice for crisp acidity.
- Add the soda after shaking to preserve carbonation.
- Top gently with ginger beer to avoid foam overflow.
- Lightly scorch mint leaves for aroma without burning them.
- Chill glassware before pouring for a longer-lasting chill.
- Adjust sweetness by reducing the sugar cube if desired.
- Garnish with both mint and orange peel for contrast.
When to Serve
The Witch Kiss is an ideal cocktail for Halloween parties, autumn dinners, or festive nights that call for a touch of drama. Its deep fruit notes, bright citrus, and subtle smoky aroma make it perfect for evening gatherings. The balance of sweet, tart, and spicy elements suits it for both casual and refined settings. Serve it as a signature drink at a Halloween celebration, or as a pre-dinner cocktail for cool-weather occasions. With its mysterious name and layered flavor, it’s a conversation starter that complements any fall-themed menu.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Tequila: Espolòn Blanco, Don Julio, or Herradura Silver for a clean agave profile.
- Chambord: Chambord Black Raspberry Liqueur for authentic depth and color.
- Ginger Beer: Fever-Tree, Q Mixers, or Bundaberg for natural spice.
- Sparkling Soda: San Pellegrino Pomegranate & Orange for balance and fizz.
- Bitters: Angostura Orange or Regan’s No. 6 for bright, aromatic flavor.
- Garnish: Fresh mint leaves and a wide orange peel for aroma and contrast.
Similar Cocktails
- Witch Potion Margarita
- White Coconut Christmas Margarita
- Monsters Inc
- Dracula’s Daiquiri
- Tequila Sunrise Vampire
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz silver tequila
- 1 dashes orange bitters
- 0.5 oz Chambord
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 sugar cube
- Orange & pomegranate sparkling soda
- Ginger beer for topping
- Orange peel for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the silver tequila, Chambord, lime juice, orange bitters, brown sugar, and sugar cube.
- Shake vigorously to ensure the sugar dissolves and the ingredients are well mixed.
- Add a splash of orange and pomegranate sparkling soda to the shaker, and gently stir to combine.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top the cocktail with ginger beer to add a refreshing fizz.
- For the final touch, slightly burn the dried mint leaves with a lighter or match, then garnish the drink with the smoky, aromatic leaves.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Witch Kiss!
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by using more or less brown sugar to suit your taste.
- For a more intense flavor, let the mint leaves burn a little longer before garnishing.
- To enhance the visual appeal, consider rimming the glass with a mix of sugar and cinnamon before pouring the cocktail.
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice for a brighter, more natural citrus flavor.
