Piper

The Piper is an iced coffee with tequila in it, and a better one than that description suggests. Two ounces of tequila, half an ounce each of dark crème de cacao and lemon juice, and four ounces of strong coffee cooled to room temperature are stirred together over crushed ice in an Irish coffee glass.

The lemon is the unexpected part, and it is what makes the drink interesting. A little acidity brightens cold coffee the same way it does in a coffee tonic or an espresso served with a twist, and it keeps the crème de cacao from making everything too sweet or heavy. Tequila’s earthy, peppery edge works well with coffee too, and the chocolate from the cacao fills in the middle.

It is a strong drink hiding behind a mild flavor, with two full ounces of spirit, so pace yourself if you are drinking it on a hot afternoon.

Glass: Irish coffee glass | Strength: Strong | Serves: 1 | Prep Time: 5 minutes

Bartenders tip: Brew the coffee strong and let it cool completely before you build the drink, or the crushed ice melts on contact and you end up with something thin and watery. Cold brew concentrate cut with a little water is an easy shortcut. A reposado tequila suits the coffee better than a sharp blanco. Stir thoroughly, since the crème de cacao is heavy and tends to settle at the bottom.