El Maestro is a modern aperitif cocktail built on oloroso sherry with gin, elderflower liqueur, and cynar, finished with celery bitters and a cucumber garnish for herbaceous complexity.
Recipe Source
Visit Mr. Boston DrinksFrom Mr. Boston Drinks · by Mr. Boston Official Bartender's Guide
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Muddle 1 cucumber slice in mixing glass.
Add remaining ingredients
and stir with ice.
Strain into ice-filled highball glass.
Garnish with
cucumber slice.
Oloroso is central to the drink's character. Dry amontillado or fino sherry could substitute, though they'll shift the profile toward lighter, more delicate notes.
Cynar brings bitter artichoke notes and herbal depth that complement the elderflower and sherry, balancing sweetness and adding savory complexity.
Use a fresh cucumber slice as both an ingredient and garnish. Thin slices work best; gently express oils over the drink before placing on the rim.
A dry London Dry gin with moderate botanicals allows sherry and cynar to dominate. Avoid heavily juniper-forward or floral gins that will compete.
Stir El Maestro with ice to chill and dilute gently, preserving the sherry's delicate aromatics and creating a silky mouthfeel.
