Sip Spotlight: Oooooomami!

Today is World Cocktail Day, which marks the publication on May 13, 1806 of the first known definition of a cocktail. To celebrate we've crafted an umami concoction that draws inspiration from around the globe. Umami means “essence of deliciousness” in Japanese, and it's considered the fifth taste after sweet, sour, bitter, and salty. Essentially, umami brings savory heartiness to dishes and drinks.

The umami factor in this cocktail is the hemp tea simple syrup. (A green tea simple syrup would also work, if that's easier to come by.) Just a little brings the right balance. But if you're craving even more umami-liciousness, serve this drink alongside a bowl of wasabi peas to munch on between sips.

OOOOOOMAMI!

Ingredients:

• 2 Jalapeño Citrus Mixicles cube
• 2.5 oz. Japanese whisky
• .25 oz. Hemp tea simple syrup
• Ginger beer, chilled
• Fresh pineapple and serrano peppers for garnish

How to Mix: Combine the Jalapeño Citrus cubes, whiskey, and hemp syrup in a glass. Add ice and stir. Top with a splash of ginger beer. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and serrano pepper slices. Kanpai!

Jen Morales is the co-founder of Cincinnati-based Mixicles, an all-natural, frozen, non-alcoholic botanical mixer that can be popped into any liquor, wine, champagne, etc for an instant cocktail. They can even used as a natural foundation for distinctive zero-proof drinks and smoothies. Learn more at www.mixicles.com.