Mixologist Diaries

Bring On the Smoke with Firewood's "Fireline" Cocktail

Mixologist Courtney Flach reveals the secrets of Firewood's top selling libation.

By Michaela Wagner January 2, 2018

Img 9447 elnyvz — Patrons revisit Firewood time and time again for the smoky, bold flavor of the Fireline.

Image: Michaela Wagner

While the food menu rotates frequently at John Murcko's Firewood (306 Main St), there's one cocktail that's remained a staple since the restaurant first opened its doors a year ago: the Fireline. The deep purple, smoky concoction is the creation Courtney Flach, bar manager and mixologist at Firewood's Nickel Bar. Flach has been mixing and bartending for nine years and was part of the crew Murcko brought with him to ensure his new restaurant venture would be a success.

Much like Firewood's dishes, which are all cooked over hardwood on a massive custom-made grill, the Fireline is bold and robust. This unique drink combines several elements for a deep, pronounced flavor profile, including tequila, mezcal, curaçao, hibiscus syrup, lemon juice, and a citrus ash. The finally ingredient, which gives the drink its eye-catching purple color, was a stroke of genius from Flach. "It was the last cocktail we finalized for the original menu," says Flach. "We were trying to add a smoky element and were thinking about smoked salts and when I suggested the citrus ash everyone thought it would make it gritty, like drinking dirt. But it actually worked perfectly and people really enjoy seeing the bright pink hibiscus color change to a darker purple." Many of Firewood's patrons pop in just to hit up the Nickel Bar for the Fireline, but we suggest you use it as a precursor to a meal at least once. "Since the cocktails are served ahead of the dishes, it's meant to prep you palette for the smoky elements in our food, giving you a greater appreciation for the unique taste," says Flach. We couldn't agree more.