The Dissensus Dividend

Paper Title: Carson, R, J Graff Zivin, and J Shrader, “Choose Your Moments: Peer Review and Scientific Risk Taking,” NBER WP #31409.

Cocktail Pairing: Dissensus Dividend

Rationale: This paper focuses on the peer review process and how to translate reviewer scores into funding decisions.  We find that scientists prefer projects that have variable scores with the notion that dissensus is indicative of more radical ideas.  As the name suggests, the Dissensus Dividend, is designed to reflect the idea that disagreement can yield surprising benefits. The drink is gin and mezcal based, contrasting ingredients that seem at odds, but with the addition of Italicus, a bergamot liquor, and lemon juice the flavors come together to create something delightful and unexpected.  The cardamom and serrano bitters bring spice and unpredictability, much like the role of dissent in a debate.  The Dissensus Dividend starts smokey and finishes bright with a little herbal sweetness. 

Recipe: Dissensus Dividend

• 1oz Gin

• 1oz Mezcal

• 1oz Italicus

• 0.75oz Fresh Lemon Juice

• 0.33 oz Rosemary Sage Simple Syrup

• 4 dashes Cardamom bitters

• 2 dashes Serrano Bitters

• Garnish: Sprig of rosemary and a lemon twist

1. Combine all ingredients with ice in a shaker and shake vigorously until well chilled

2. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.

3. Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a lemon twist.

Additional Instructions: Rosemary Sage Simple Syrup

1. Combine equal parts water and sugar, 2 rosemary sprigs, 5 sage leaves, and simmer for 10 minutes.

2. Let the mixture cool, then strain through a fine mesh to remove any solids.