Dead Man's Handle

Proceed with caution.

If you’re looking for a cocktail that’s equal parts refreshing and a little rebellious, the Dead Man’s Handle delivers. Originally created by Tiffany Kirk at Miss Carousel in Houston, this tequila-forward sipper mixes bright lime, bittersweet Aperol, and smooth almond notes from orgeat into a combo that just works.

Then comes the fun part. A Tajín rim adds a kick of chile, salt, and citrus that keeps every sip lively and just a little unexpected. It’s vibrant, slightly tropical, and dangerously easy to drink. As for the name, it comes from a safety switch designed to stop things when someone lets go. In this case, good luck putting it down.

(Originally published 2/23/24; updated 4/24/26)

Author

The Elevated Craft Team

Category

Cocktails

Ingredients

• 2 oz. Blanco Tequila (we used Tres Agaves Organic Blanco)
• 1 oz. Aperol
• ¾ oz. Fresh Lime Juice
• ¾ oz. Orgeat (we used Liber & Co)
• Tajin & Lime (for garnish)

Directions

1. Shake all ingredients in your Hybrid Cocktail Shaker filled with ice.
2. Strain into your Hybrid Rocks Glass filled with crushed ice.
3. Dust with Tajín and garnish with a lime.