Nakatomi Torch

A sharp, bitter cocktail that captures the explosive grit of Die Hard. Bold rye whiskey and herbaceous Fernet-Branca form its defiant core, ignited by a smoky Scotch float and a hint of tart cranberry, mirroring the fiery chaos of a Christmas party gone wrong.

Drink
6 ingredients
6 steps
Action

Gather these

Ingredients

2 oz / 60mlRye Whiskey
1/2 oz / 15mlFernet-Branca
3/4 oz / 22.5mlFresh Lime Juice
1/4 oz / 7.5mlCranberry Liqueur
1 bar spoon (approx. 5ml)Smoky Islay Scotch (e.g., Laphroaig 10 or Ardbeg)
Orange PeelGarnish

Step by step

Instructions

1
Chill a coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
2
Add Rye Whiskey, Fernet-Branca, fresh lime juice, and cranberry liqueur to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
3
Shake vigorously until well-chilled, about 12-15 seconds.
4
Double-strain the mixture into your chilled glass.
5
Gently pour the Islay Scotch over the back of a spoon to float it on the surface of the drink.
6
Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink, then drop it in as a garnish.

The Inspiration

Why this drink

This cocktail is a tribute to the raw, high-octane intensity of Die Hard. The spicy, aggressive Rye Whiskey represents John McClane's gritty determination. The intensely bitter and medicinal Fernet-Branca mirrors the punishment he endures. A touch of cranberry liqueur serves as a cynical nod to the Christmas party setting, while the smoky Scotch float is the final explosion that brings the villains down. The result is a sharp, complex, and defiant drink, perfect for welcoming unexpected guests to the party.

Die Hard · Action

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