Hole-In-One

This cocktail had the promise of being a delightful treat that makes the best of a blended scotch's natural flavor. That is why I chose to use Johnnie Walker black label to accentuate soft peated and oak notes of the whisky with orange bitters and dry vermouth.

It was enjoyable, but I was surprised at how much dry vermouth covers the scotch's richness. Like all cocktails, there is a softening of the flavors of the base spirit, but in this case I would prefer to stiffen it. Maybe this could be done with more bitters and only a rinse of vermouth in the glass.

• 2 oz. scotch 
• 1/2 oz. dry vermouth
• 1/2 tsp. lemon juice
• several dashes orange bitters

Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.