Crimson Oak: Whiskey, Cranberry, Egg White

Every bar needs a drink for people who like whiskey but want something more than a glass on ice. At Maison Almaz, that drink is the Crimson Oak. It is a sour at heart, with a deep red colour and a soft white crown, and it is the drink we point whiskey lovers to first.

What is in it

Five ingredients, each with a job:

• Whiskey, the base: warm, round, a little woody. The “oak” in the name.
• Cranberry, for colour and a tart, red-fruit edge. The “crimson”.
• Angostura bitters, a few drops of spice that hold the drink together.
• Lemon, for freshness and balance.
• Egg white, for texture.

Why egg white

Egg white is the old bartender’s secret for a sour. Shaken hard with the other ingredients, it turns into a fine, silky foam that sits on top of the drink. It does not taste of egg. It softens the acidity, gives the cocktail a velvety feel, and makes the first sip feel round rather than sharp.

What it tastes like

The first sip goes through the foam, so it is soft. Then the whiskey arrives, warm and slightly sweet, followed by cranberry and lemon, which keep it bright. The finish is dry and lightly spiced. It is less sweet than it looks, and more refreshing than most whiskey drinks.

If you like a classic Whiskey Sour, this is the same family with more fruit and colour. If you prefer something rounder, the Applewood Sour on the same list pairs whiskey with apple and vanilla.

What to eat with it

The Crimson Oak is a dinner cocktail. It works well with:

• Grilled meat: a beef tenderloin or the tomahawk, where its acidity cuts through the richness.
• Mezze and cheese: the tartness balances salty, creamy plates.

On the list

The Crimson Oak is 160K, on the Signature Cocktails list next to the Maison Pine, Mango Mood, Pandan Cloud, Applewood Sour, Almaz Dorada, Gin d’Ananas and Cucu & Juniper. Our signature cocktails guide covers them all.

The bar is open 24 hours a day. Come for dinner, stay for a second one, and book a table if it is a weekend.