Cherry and Smoke

I first met Evan when I interviewed him about the drinks he concocted for a five-course dinner put on by an all-star lineup of sober chefs. He has since become a friend, doubling as a drinks tutor, and while he offered up a zillion ideas for this book, the simplicity and versatility of the Cherry & Smoke won me over. The campfire smokiness of the Lapsang Souchong, which he brews strong, so that the tannins intensify, is such a good counterpoint to the sweet, tart stone fruit. Speaking of the cherry juice: Use a clarified version, such as Lakewood brand. (I tested this recipe using Trader Joe’s cherry juice, which is cloudier, and it didn’t work as well.) You can serve this drink warm or chilled, and while Evan (and I!) prefer it as a nightcap, it would suit barbecue, too.