The Optimist, a 2021 Take on a Classic Milk Punch

The punch makes six servings. Note: it does chill overnight.

The Optimist:

• 8 oz ORIGIN Whole Milk
• 8 oz Jamaican rum (we like Smith and Cross)
• 5 oz sherry (we like Oloroso)
• 2.5 oz Chai Tea Syrup*
• 2 oz fresh lemon juice
• 4 dashes bitters (we like Dram Black)

Add the ORIGIN milk to a small saucepan and bring to a simmer on the stove top. Once boiling remove from heat and add lemon juice. Let sit for 5 minutes while milk solids form. Add the rum to the milk and lemon mixture, and strain through a sieve into a pitcher containing the sherry, chai tea syrup, and bitters. Rinse your strainer and pass this mixture through again. Rinse your strainer again, and add a paper towel to the inside before straining a third time. Finally, add a coffee filter to the inside of your strainer and pass through one more time. Expect the straining to go slow, this is the most challenging part of the drink.

Chill overnight and serve in a rocks glass with ice. Garnish with a fresh strawberry.

*Chai Tea Syrup: Bring 16 oz water to a boil with four packets of your favorite spiced chai tea. Tazo is a good option. Let steep for 10 minutes and remove. Add 16 oz honey and stir until combined. Refrigerate between uses.

The Optimist is a collaboration between ORIGIN Milk and Jack Bethel. Jack Bethel’s custom cocktails have been served across the country at events including The James Beard House, Aspen Food & Wine, and with acknowledgements from Bon Appétit Magazine, 303 Magazine, and earning Westword magazine’s 2016 Best Cocktail Program at The Squeaky Bean Farm + Table, where he was general manager.