Sprack

Indulge in the timeless charm of a classic whiskey drink with a twist—the Sprack, a delightful creation from the skilled mixologists at Berlin’s Riva Bar. While the Old Fashioned is a beloved favorite throughout the day, this variation takes on a unique character, making it the perfect after-dinner treat. Bartender Markus Littman, in collaboration with Markus Orschiedt, the editor of the prestigious German bartending magazine Mixology, set out to craft this exceptional concoction using the extraordinary Sloupisti single malt German whiskey from the renowned Spreewälder distillery.

At an impressive 63% ABV, the Sloupisti single malt possesses an unconventional malt wine quality that sets it apart. Eager to showcase its distinct attributes, Markus Littman carefully curated the ingredients to create the Sprack, a twist on the classic Old Fashioned that promises to delight the senses and elevate your after-dinner experience.

INGREDIENTS:

• Absinthe (for spraying the glass)
• 2 fl oz/60ml Sloupisti single malt German whiskey
• Dash of Angostura bitters
• 4 dashes of Peychaud’s bitters
• 1 tsp sugar syrup (see page 288)
• Ice cubes
• Ice ball or large cube
• Fresh or Maraschino cherry (for garnish)

PREPARATIONS:

1. Start by spraying a glass with absinthe using an atomizer, infusing the glass with a hint of the distinct absinthe flavor.
2. In a separate mixing glass, combine 2 fl oz of Sloupisti single malt German whiskey, a dash of Angostura bitters, 4 dashes of Peychaud’s bitters, and 1 tsp of sugar syrup.
3. Add ice cubes to the mixing glass to chill the mixture, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
4. Stir the ingredients gently and thoroughly, ensuring a perfect melding of flavors.
5. Strain the concoction into a rocks glass over an ice ball or large cube, maintaining the ideal chill and dilution.
6. For the final touch, garnish the Sprack with a fresh or Maraschino cherry, adding a touch of elegance and complementing the drink’s complex profile.

SERVING:

Savor the Sprack in a rocks glass over an ice ball or large cube, appreciating the harmonious blend of flavors and the sophisticated presentation.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• The use of an atomizer to spray absinthe in the glass enhances the drink’s aroma and adds a subtle herbal note, a key feature of the Sprack.
• Sloupisti single malt German whiskey’s unique malt wine quality is the star of the show, so ensure you have this specific whiskey for an authentic experience.

TIPS:

• Adjust the amount of sugar syrup to suit your personal preference for sweetness.
• Experiment with different types of cherries for garnish to add your own twist to the drink’s final presentation.

The Sprack, a captivating twist on the classic Old Fashioned, introduces you to a world of refined flavors and bold character. Created by the visionary mixologists at Berlin’s Riva Bar, this after-dinner delight captures the essence of the exceptional Sloupisti single malt German whiskey, hailing from the prestigious Spreewälder distillery.

Markus Littman’s artistry shines through in the preparation of the Sprack, expertly combining the robustness of the Sloupisti whiskey with the subtle complexity of Angostura and Peychaud’s bitters. The delicate addition of absinthe, sprayed using an atomizer, adds a touch of mystery and intrigue to the aroma, elevating the drinking experience to new heights.

The presence of Sloupisti single malt German whiskey at an impressive 63% ABV creates a delightful balance between potency and finesse. This unconventional whiskey, with its distinct malt wine quality, forms the heart of the Sprack, enveloping your taste buds in a symphony of flavors.

Each sip of the Sprack reveals the meticulous craftsmanship behind its preparation. The gentle stirring with ice ensures a harmonious marriage of ingredients, while the presentation over an ice ball or large cube maintains the perfect chill, offering a satisfying sipping experience.

A fresh or Maraschino cherry crowns the Sprack, enhancing its visual appeal and adding a burst of fruity sweetness. As with any artful cocktail, the Sprack allows for customization and exploration, inviting you to experiment with cherry varieties and sugar syrup quantities to tailor the drink to your taste.

Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine whiskies or a cocktail enthusiast seeking a captivating after-dinner libation, the Sprack promises to captivate your senses and leave a lasting impression. Embrace the spirit of mixology and relish in the flavors of this extraordinary twist on a timeless classic. Cheers to the Sprack, a testament to the creativity and innovation that continue to define the world of mixology.