here are some sweet things going on with the beverage program at LA hotspot Toca Madera, where Charity Johnston is whipping up some creative cocktails. Head to the West Hollywood Mexican restaurant for their impressive menu of boozy beverages, including the Winnie de Pooh, a blend of chamomile-infused tequila, green chartreuse, ginger, lemon, mint, and wild flower honey. The name, of course, is a nod to Winnie The Pooh, the beloved, honey-obsessed children’s book character.
“I love tea-inspired cocktails because of their herbal and earthy flavors, explains Johnston, Beverage Director of the Madera Group. “This cocktail has chamomile infused tequila to stay true to the Mexican style of Toca Madera, while the wildflower honey adds that rich maple flavor.”
The ginger-root juice in house, explains Johnston, and the bright mint garnish “brings out all the flavors together.”
“This cocktail is designed to feel like a comforting, warm cup of tea you would want if you are sick or its chilly outside, so that’s why we put it in the matte black cup”
WINNIE DE POOH RECIPE AND PREPARATION
2 oz. Chamomile-infused Casamigos Blanco*
.75 oz Ginger Root Juice
.75 oz Lemon Juice
.75 oz Wildflower Honey**
.25 oz Green Chartreuse
Handful of Mint
In a mixing tin, muddle mint. Add the remaining ingredients. Shake and strain into glass. Top with crushed ice. Garnish with chamomile flower and mint sprig.
*To create the Chamomile Infusion, simply soak chamomile tea bags in the Casamigos Blanco for about 3 days.
**Wildflower Honey is diluted honey in the ratio of 2 honey to 1 water which provides a beautifully rich maple flavor.
TOCA MADERA DETAILS
8450 W. 3rd St., West Hollywood, CA, 90048; 323-852-9400; www.tocamadera.com; @tocamaderala