Debbie, Don’t
The Debbie, Don’t is a bold and unique cocktail curiously named after the ghost that haunts the bathroom at the bar in which it was created, Dutch Kills. Thankfully, the inspiration for the name is no indication of the libation itself. Creator Zachary Gelnaw-Rubin combines reposado tequila, amaro Averna, maple syrup, and lemon juice to make a cocktail that strikes a surprising harmony of flavor. As previously mentioned, the flavor of amari can differ significantly from one brand to another even though they are all under the umbrella of ‘Italian herbal liqueur.’ Averna is merely one type of amaro. Because of its distinct flavor, I would be reluctant to identify a substitute for this particular cocktail even though it is not the most ubiquitous cocktail ingredient. However, if you enjoy whiskey, don’t write it off until you try the Black Manhattan and Flannel Shirt. Another key ingredient is of the Debbie, Don’t is the maple syrup. It is key you use a quality, pure maple syrup avoiding anything that has high fructose corn syrup as an ingredient. If you are unfamiliar with the types of maple syrup, be on the lookout for one that is denoted as Grade B for its rich flavor. This cocktail is shaken and served up in a chilled cocktail coupe glass without a garnish. The Debbie, Don’t is far from a stunning presentation, however, for whatever it’s worth… the flavor is fantastic. But don’t take my word for it, make one and try it yourself!
Debbie, Don’t
In your shaker, combine the maple syrup, lemon juice, amaro Averna, and reposado tequila.
0.5 oz of Maple Syrup (Grade B)
0.75 oz of Lemon Juice
1 oz of Amaro Averna
1 oz of Reposado Tequila
Add ice to your shaker and shake until it develops a frost. Double-strain contents (by pouring the contents from the shaker through a fine mesh strainer) into your chilled coupe glass. No garnish unless preferred with a lemon peel.
TIP(S):
Chill your cocktail coupe — to extend the life of your Debbie, Don’t, place your cocktail coupe in the freezer for at least 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can place ice water in your cocktail coupe cocktail glass during the preparation.
