A Still Dawn

The story

The Still Dawn is a modern cocktail that showcases the versatility of mezcal and gin. Its creation is attributed to the craft cocktail movement, which gained momentum in the early 2000s. The combination of smoky mezcal and herbal gin reflects a trend towards complex flavor profiles, appealing to adventurous drinkers. It has gained popularity in cocktail bars for its unique taste and balance.

How it tastes

The Still Dawn presents a complex flavor profile with smoky notes from the mezcal, complemented by the botanicals of the gin. The sweetness of the cassis and the herbal bitterness from Averna add depth, making it suitable for pre-dinner drinks or as a unique nightcap.

Getting it right

The key to a successful Still Dawn lies in the stirring technique, which should be done gently to chill and dilute the drink without overly aerating it. Using high-quality ingredients, particularly the mezcal and gin, is crucial for achieving the desired flavor balance.

Variations

• Still Dusk — Replace the mezcal with a smoky Scotch whisky for a different take on the flavor profile.
• Dawn's Embrace — Substitute the gin with a floral gin to enhance the aromatic qualities of the cocktail.

Substitutions

• Del Maguey VIDA mezcal — Any quality mezcal can be used, though the flavor may vary.
• Rutte Dry Gin — A London dry gin can be substituted, but it may alter the herbal notes.
• Giffard Noir de Bourgogne Cassis — Any blackcurrant liqueur can work, though the flavor intensity may differ.

Questions

What is mezcal?

Mezcal is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant, primarily in Mexico. It has a distinct smoky flavor due to the traditional cooking methods used for the agave.

Can I make this drink without bitters?

While you can omit the bitters, they add complexity and balance to the cocktail. If unavailable, consider using a different aromatic bitters.

What glass should I use for serving?

The Still Dawn is best served in a Nick & Nora glass, which enhances the drinking experience by concentrating the aromas.

This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.

Updated October 5, 2026