Some cocktails ease you into the night, and this one lights the match. The Fire Starter is a showpiece for your next get-together: a bold shaken drink with a red-orange Campari float that looks as dramatic as it sounds. It comes together in about six minutes with just a shaker and a rocks glass, so it’s easy to make for one or to line up for a crowd. Serve it over a big ice cube, add the dehydrated lemon garnish, and let it start the conversation. Prefer something smokier? Swap the tequila for mezcal.
Tasting Notes: Cool cucumber and bright lemon open the sip, followed by a gentle jalapeño warmth that builds without overwhelming. Yellow Chartreuse adds honeyed, herbal depth, and the Campari float brings a bittersweet citrus finish.
Ingredients:
1 oz YCC Cucumber Jalapeno Cocktail Mixer
0.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
2 oz Blanco Tequila
0.5 oz Yellow Chartreuse
Float: 0.25 oz Campari
Garnish: YCC Dehydrated Lemon Slice
Steps:
1. Combine all ingredients (except float and garnish) in a cocktail shaker with fresh ice and shake until chilled, about 10 seconds.
2. Strain into rocks glass with a large ice cube or sphere.
3. Pour Campari slowly over the back of a bar spoon to float it on top of your cocktail.
4. Garnish and enjoy!
Prep Time: 6 minutes
Yield: 1 Cocktail
Glassware: Rocks
Substitutions: Swap the tequila for mezcal for a smoky alternative
Author: Yes Cocktail Crew