A Fresh New Cocktail from Catrina’s Mexican Kitchen & Cantina

Clarified cocktails are taking the mixology world by storm right now, but the technique itself dates back to at least the 18th century. The process involves using a milk wash to remove certain particles in the alcohol, leaving it with a clear appearance and smooth taste. If you want to try one for yourself, look no further than the Clara Mezcalita from Catrina’s Mexican Kitchen & Cantina (2925 E. Battlefield Rd., Ste. 105, Springfield). This cocktail starts with four simple ingredients: El de Bateo Mezcal, fresh lime, agave and salt. Next up, they add milk, which curdles and absorbs the naturally occurring molecules that give the drink a bitter taste. After it undergoes the milk clarification for 24 hours, they then double-strain it to remove the curds. It finally makes its way to your glass, garnished with Tajín and cucumber.