Night Tripper

The Night Tripper is a new cocktail in the mixology world made from bourbon, amaro, Strega, and Peychaud’s bitters. It was first crafted in the early 2020s at New Orleans’s ‘Jewel of the South’ restaurant & bar, which has quickly cemented its place in the city’s culinary and mixology scene.

This cocktail is an homage to the legendary musician Dr. John, Known affectionately as the “Night Tripper”. Dr. John’s influence on the city’s music and culture is profound, weaving together the eclectic sounds of blues, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll to capture the spirit of New Orleans.

Chris Hannah, the head partner and bartender of Jewel of the South, brings his extensive experience and passion for cocktail crafting to the creation of the Night Tripper. With a reputation for innovation and a deep appreciation for the city’s heritage, Hannah has designed a cocktail that not only honors Dr. John’s legacy but also reflects the complexity and depth of New Orleans itself.

This cocktail is characterized by a carefully selected and unique blend of ingredients:

1. Bourbon – Selected for its rich and warm profile, bourbon lays the foundation of the cocktail.

2. Amaro like Averna or Ramazzotti – This component introduces a layer of herbal bitterness, and creates a balance with the bitter orange and anise aroma.

3. Strega – The inclusion of Strega, with its herbal and slightly sweet nuances, infuses the cocktail with a touch of minty flavor that contributes to its overall complexity.

4. Peychaud’s Bitters – Peychaud’s Bitters adds a final layer of spice and floral notes, tying all the flavors together.

The result is a cocktail that is as complex and multifaceted as Dr. John’s music and the city of New Orleans itself.

Night Tripper Recipe

1. 52.5 ml bourbon

2. 22.5 ml amaro

3. 15 ml Strega

4. 2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters

5. Ice

6. Garnish: orange twist