mr. clark's cane

1 1/2 oz Fernet Branca
3/4 oz Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur
1/2 oz Lemon Juice

Shake with ice and strain into a cocktail glass.

Two Fridays ago, I was reminded of a drink in Sanctuaria: The Dive Bar of Cocktail Bars called Mr. Clark's Cane via the ScientistMcGee blog. Since Fernet Branca and Maraschino liqueur pair so well in drinks that use a little like the Newark to decent amounts like the Root of All Evil, I was curious to see what would happen if they made up most of the drink. The Mr. Clark in question was the author's former boss who asked him for a bitter-sweet cocktail one evening.
Mr. Clark's Cane began with an herbal menthol and sweet, nutty cherry aroma. Next, the sip offered the lemon flavors with a hint of cherry, and the swallow showcased the Fernet Branca herbal notes that were softened by funky Maraschino flavors. Finally, the swallow ended with a lingering menthol finish. Indeed, it would be odd to just say that this was a Fernet Tennessee despite the reality of what the recipe looks like.