Adapted from Maine Mead Works.

 Burnt Honey and Clove Syrup 

½ cup honey
1 tablespoon whole cloves
1½ cups warm water

Cocktail

2½ ounces tequila
1½ ounces HoneyMaker Dry Mead
½ ounce burnt honey and clove syrup
2 dashes Reagan’s orange bitters orange twist
1. Prepare the burnt honey and clove syrup. In a small saucepan, heat honey and cloves over medium-high heat until honey begins to bubble and darken in color. Lower heat and cook, stirring constantly, until dark amber in color. Add water and cook over low heat until honey is completely dissolved. Let cool then strain into an airtight container. Store at room temperature.

2. Prepare the cocktail. Combine tequila, mead, syrup, and bitters in a mixing glass. Fill with ice and stir vigorously until well-chilled. Strain into a rocks glass. Garnish with the orange twist.

Makes 1 serving