The Diamondback cocktail is a great testament to the boozy synergy that results when you mix together three 100 proof ingredients – in this case, rye whiskey, apple brandy and Green Chartreuse.

Sure you can dial back your spirits below the 100 proof range by using a less potent rye whiskey or apple brandy, but there’s no fun in that. For the best results, stick with Rittenhouse Bonded (a 100 proof rye whiskey) and Laird’s straight apple brandy, which also tips the proof scales at 100. From there, the 110 proof Green Chartreuse brings it all home with a kick of herbal sweetness.

The Diamondback

1 1/2 ounces rye whiskey
3/4 ounce apple brandy
3/4 ounce Green Chartreuse

Stir all ingredients with ice, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Feel free to play with the ratios. I like the above version, but dialing back the Green Chartreuse a bit yields a less sweet cocktail without compromising the overall effect. You can also sub Yellow Chartreuse for Green, but to my tastes, the results are underwhelming.

Photo: A Dash of Bitters

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  • Karel says:

    Tried my first Diamondback at the ZigZag Cafe in Seattle at the recommendation of my Bro,Stew from Portland, The Barman there used yellow chartreuse. Great cocktail, will try green nextime.

  • Marc says:

    Hmm.. it does seem a bit sweet w/ the 3/4 oz of chartreuse. Still good, but I dialed it back to 1/2 oz and preferred it.

  • Wayne says:

    I’ll give this one a try

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