Strawberry Mermaid and Sea Smoke – Cocktails

These were invented, and the previous post written, for Chuck Wendig’s flash fiction contest. The story is very rough around the edges, but the cocktails are pretty damn good. Or so I think.

Indeed, we’ve shared them with guests now. And, as in the story, almost no one (just me) likes the “Sea Smoke,” but both Bill and Tony agree they can see why I like it. The “Strawberry Mermaid” has been a big hit, however. So, grab your booze and your bar tools and make this happen.

Strawberry Mermaid

1 barspoon good strawberry jam/preserves (homemade, in my case)
1/2 oz Campari

187 mL (~6 oz) sparkling wine.

Mix the jam with the Campari thoroughly, trying to break up any huge chunks of strawberries. Poor chilled wine over, mix gently, and serve.

Sea Smoke

3 fresh sage leaves
1/4 oz grapefruit juice

1 oz Del Maguay Vida mezcal

4 oz Tallgrass Brewing 8-Bit pale ale

Smoked salt for garnish

Bruise the sage, then put it in a shaker with the juice and mezcal. Shake with ice for 15 second, then pour into a rocks glass and top with the beer. Sprinkle a small pinch of smoked salt on top.

Curious about the story that inspired/goes with these cocktails? Click here!