This rum-based cocktail was created for a friend of mine that is known in our social circle as "the purser." This is a reference to the fact that much like a purser in the Royal Navy, it is exceptionally difficult to get him to tap his beloved rum bottles at parties. He arrived at the bar the other night wanting something new that showcased the freshness of a white rum with a subtle bitter note . . . Oh, with friends like these!

Ingredients
1 1/2 oz Banks 5-Island Rum
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
1/4 oz Creme de Cacao
2 dashes of Bitter Truth Celery Bitters

Instructions
1. Shake all ingredients vigorously with ice.

2. Double strain the drink into a short glass over a large cube or chunk of ice.

3. Garnish by carefully drizzling about a teaspoon of Fernet Branca over the surface of the drink.

Photograph by Beall & Thomas Photography