Tapatio Blanco tequila, coriander seed, sparkling grapefruit & citrus char — Gymkhana London
Sidhu Moosewala (1993–2022) was the most important Punjabi music artist of his generation — a rapper, singer, and activist from Mansa district in Punjab whose music combined Punjabi folk melodies with hip-hop and contemporary pop, accumulating over a billion streams before his tragic murder in May 2022. Gymkhana's tribute is a cocktail — named Moose Wala (slightly different spelling, acknowledging the tribute while establishing the drink's own identity). Tapatio Blanco (a clean, bright tequila from the highlands of Jalisco) with coriander seed (dhania — the same seed that is ground into the base powder of virtually every Indian curry) and sparkling grapefruit juice with 'citrus char' (likely activated charcoal or burnt citrus ash for a smoky-citrus finish). A Punjabi-Mexican toast.
Toasted coriander seed has a completely different flavour to raw or ground coriander — more aromatic, nutty, and warm. Toast carefully (medium heat, 2–3 minutes, stirring) until fragrant and just darkened. Tapatio is available at Waitrose and specialist tequila retailers. The 'citrus char' technique (burning the peel) creates aromatic volatiles that add complexity beyond simple citrus — it is worth doing even if you can't see it.
Add a small float of mezcal (10ml) for a smoky, more complex variation.
A Michelin-starred Mayfair institution inspired by the colonial-era gymkhana clubs of British India, where maharajas, army officers, and civil servants mixed. Gymkhana is known for exceptional game dishes, a legendary bar programme, and cocktails that draw on the subcontinent's rich botanical heritage — from wild game to monsoon spices.
Visit gymkhanalondon.com