Sage Advice

Directions

1. 1
   Make the syrup: Combine the tea and honey in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. 2
   Reduce until syrupy, about 10 minutes, then let cool.
3. 3
   Make the cocktail: Combine 1/2 ounce tea syrup, 2 sage leaves, the Peychaud's bitters and orange juice in a cocktail shaker.
4. 4
   Gently muddle the sage with a muddler or the handle of a wooden spoon.
5. 5
   Add the rye and Averna and fill the shaker three-quarters of the way with ice.
6. 6
   Give it a short shake, then strain into a martini glass and garnish with the remaining sage leaf.
7. 7
   Photograph by Jonathan Kantor