Lemon Lumiere
Paper Title: Coville, A, J Graff Zivin, A Reichert, and AK Reitmann, “Quality Signaling and Demand for Renewable Energy Technology: Evidence from a Randomized Field Experiment,” NBER WP #32397.
Cocktail Pairing: Lemon Lumiere
Rationale: This paper examines the adoption of solar lanterns in rural Senegal, where it is difficult to distinguish between high- and low-quality products, thereby dampening demand. We overcome this ‘lemons problem’ by experimentally offering to sell lamps to participants along with third-party certification or warranties (but not money back guarantees). Unsurprisingly, this cocktail is lemon-centric utilizing the flavors of ginger as a nod to the ginger juices that are a mainstay in Senegal. The Lemon Lumiere is bright, slightly smokey, and spirit forward with a spicy/umami kick from the ginger. It also appears to be inadvertently similar to a fiery lemon margarita called the Fighter that was introduced to me by a friend (thanks, Brian).
Recipe: Lemon Lumiere
1.5oz Mezcal
0.75oz Gin
1.0oz Fresh Lemon Juice
0.5oz Ginger Syrup
0.25oz Cointreau
2-3 dashes Orange Bitters
Garnish: Lemon Twist
Combine all ingredients with ice in a shaker and shake vigorously until well chilled
Strain into a lowball or whiskey glass with large ice cube.
Garnish with a lemon twist
Additional Instructions: Ginger Syrup
Combine equal parts water, sugar, and sliced fresh ginger and simmer until syrupy.
Let the mixture cool, then strain through a fine mesh to remove any solids.