Up in Smoke by Michael Korkia

November cocktail at Redrum Art Bar

This November, Redrum Art Bar features the “Up in Smoke” cocktail, crafted by owner and bartender Michael Korkia. The drink was first introduced during an event for business partners, hosted in collaboration with Bandoeng’22 at the Redrum Art Bar. The evening, held during the team’s participation at Bar Convent Berlin 2024, highlighted delicious pandan cocktails alongside Asian finger food. Among the standout drinks was the Up in Smoke—a perfect autumn cocktail with a unique twist.

When asked about his inspiration for the cocktail, Michael explained, “I’ve wanted to create an autumn-themed drink with Bandoeng 22 for a while, and what says autumn better than a combination of light herbal and smoky notes with the distinct flavor of pandan?”

How to Make the Up in Smoke
Michael was kind enough to share his recipe for this intriguing and smoky autumn cocktail.

Ingredients
20 ml (0.7 oz) Bandoeng 22
20 ml (0.7 oz) Mezcal (Topanito)
20 ml (0.7 oz) Sant’Antonio di Padova liqueur (or a Green Chartreuse equivalent)
20 ml (0.7 oz) Porto Branco (preferably Quinta do Vallado)
Squeeze of fresh lime juice

Method of preparation
There are two ways to prepare the Up in Smoke:

1. Classic Build in Glass
– Build the drink directly in the glass over a large round or square ice cube.
– Once all the ingredients are added, stir well for a few seconds to combine the flavors.
– Pour into your choice of glassware (Nick & Nora, small cognac glass, or coupe) over a mid-sized ice cube.

2. Pre-batched Version
– Prebatch 5-10 portions and store the mixture in a bottle in the fridge for 48 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
– When ready to serve, pour the drink over a mid-sized ice cube and garnish with a dehydrated lemon slice to add a slight tangy note.

Whether made fresh or prepared in advance, the Up in Smoke delivers a smoky, herbal profile, balanced with the distinctive pandan notes of Bandoeng 22, perfect for the autumn season. Enjoy this one-of-a-kind creation at Redrum Art Bar this November!

About Michael Korkia (DE)

Michael Korkia is the mastermind behind RedRum Art Bar in Berlin, heaven for those who appreciate the darker, more unconventional side of life. RedRum Art Bar is known for its unique atmosphere, catering to those who value quality and experience above all else. With a focus on specialty spirits, the bar puts its own spin on classic cocktails while also inventing new, daring creations. RedRum is a love letter to art, music, drinks, and all things dark and mysterious—a perfect reflection of Michael’s vision.

Michael’s journey as a bartender began when he opened RedRum on May 21st, 2021. When asked why he took up bartending, he said, “I tend to think of myself more as a professional drinker. I’ve always been fascinated by different spirits and concoctions, but I rarely found drinks to my liking in bars. Since around 2010, I wanted to open my own bar, and it took a while to save money and find the right spot—but when I did, I became a bartender along the way.”

Michael’s passion for creating innovative cocktails and curating unique experiences has made RedRum Art Bar a standout destination in Berlin’s vibrant nightlife scene.