Coleys Courage #2

Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes for Coley’s Courage #2

Sheringham Distillery creates an extraordinary stirred cocktail that combines Seaside Gin with brown butter sweet vermouth and oaked Fernet Branca. This sophisticated drink delivers complex layers of herbal, nutty, and oceanic flavors that appeal to adventurous cocktail enthusiasts seeking something truly unique.

Understanding the Complex Flavor Journey

The first sip reveals the botanical complexity of Sheringham’s signature Seaside Gin, with its distinctive winged kelp notes providing a subtle oceanic foundation. The brown butter vermouth adds rich, nutty sweetness that balances the gin’s coastal botanicals. As the flavors develop, the oaked Fernet Branca introduces bold herbal notes with hints of mint and saffron. The thyme saline solution ties everything together, enhancing the savory elements while brightening the overall profile. For those preferring less intensity, reducing the Fernet to 1/8 oz creates a gentler herbal backbone.

Recipe Variations and Customizations for This Stirred Gin Cocktail

This versatile cocktail template adapts beautifully to personal preferences and seasonal availability. The brown butter vermouth technique works with various sweet vermouths, each bringing unique characteristics to the final drink.

Creative Modifications and Alternatives

• Replace thyme saline with rosemary or sage for different herbal notes
• Substitute Raincoast Gin for a brighter, more citrus-forward profile
• Use regular Fernet Branca if oaked version is unavailable
• Add a bar spoon of maple syrup for additional sweetness
• Serve over a large ice cube for slower dilution
• Create a lower-ABV version by adding 1/2 oz cold brew coffee

Equipment, Preparation and Make-Ahead Tips for Coley’s Courage #2

Proper technique transforms good ingredients into an exceptional cocktail. This stirred drink requires careful attention to temperature and dilution for optimal results.

Essential Tools and Preparation Steps

• Use a mixing glass with a bar spoon for proper stirring technique
• Prepare thyme saline by dissolving 1 part salt in 4 parts warm water with fresh thyme
• Brown butter vermouth by gently heating butter until nutty, then infusing with vermouth
• Chill glassware in freezer for 20 minutes before serving
• Stir for 30-40 seconds to achieve proper dilution
• Batch ingredients except ice for party preparation
• Store pre-mixed base in refrigerator for up to 3 days

Perfect Occasions and Food Pairings for Coley’s Courage #2

This sophisticated cocktail shines as an after-dinner drink or special occasion sipper. The complex flavor profile makes it ideal for intimate gatherings where guests can appreciate its nuanced character.

Ideal Serving Suggestions and Pairings

• Serve alongside aged cheeses like Manchego or Gruyère
• Pair with dark chocolate desserts or chocolate liqueur-based treats
• Excellent with charcuterie featuring bresaola or duck prosciutto
• Perfect for cool autumn evenings or winter celebrations
• Ideal as a nightcap or digestif after rich meals
• Complements roasted nuts and marinated olives

Cocktail History and Similar Stirred Gin Drinks

Coley’s Courage #2 belongs to the Manhattan family of cocktails, reimagined with gin instead of whiskey. This modern interpretation showcases how contemporary bartenders push boundaries while respecting classic techniques.

Related Cocktails and Historical Context

The drink shares DNA with the Hanky Panky, another gin-based cocktail featuring Fernet Branca created at London’s Savoy Hotel. The brown butter technique reflects modern culinary influences in craft cocktails, where bartenders borrow from kitchen innovations. Similar Sheringham cocktail recipes like the Martinez and Negroni Bianco offer comparable complexity. The use of saline solutions represents contemporary bartending’s embrace of culinary techniques to enhance flavors. This style of drink appeals to those graduating from lighter cocktails to more spirit-forward options.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations for Coley’s Courage #2

This spirit-forward cocktail contains approximately 180-220 calories per serving, with most calories coming from the alcohol content rather than added sugars. The brown butter vermouth contributes minimal dairy fats, while the herbal liqueurs add trace amounts of sugar.

The cocktail works for most dietary restrictions with simple modifications. For vegan preparation, create brown butter flavor using coconut oil instead of dairy butter. All spirits used are naturally gluten-free, making this safe for celiac diets. The alcohol content measures approximately 28-32% ABV per serving, making it stronger than wine but comparable to other stirred cocktails. For lower calorie options, reduce the vermouth slightly and add a splash of tonic water. Those watching sugar intake should note the Fernet contains herbs macerated in grape spirit with minimal added sweeteners.