The Dunagan
(Combining scotch with flavorful spices gives The Dunagan an extraordinary, smoky flavor and a warming effect for chilly fall and winter nights. Courtesy of Art Farley, owner of St. James Infirmary and Brasserie Saint James in Reno)
1¼ ounces J&B Blended Scotch
3 ounces Gosling’s Ginger Beer
¼ ounce Black Pepper, Vanilla, and Cayenne Simple Syrup (see below)
1 fresh sage leaf
In a Boston Shaker, combine ice and all ingredients. Shake vigorously, bruising sage leaf to release oils. Strain over fresh ice in a Collins glass and garnish with a fresh sage leaf.
Black Pepper, Vanilla, and Cayenne Simple Syrup
2 cups water
2 cups sugar
¼ tablespoon whole black peppercorn
½ tablespoon cayenne pepper
1 whole vanilla bean, sliced open and scraped
Combine all ingredients and let boil for 20 to 30 minutes. Let cool. Strain off solids.
