Finessed Florals

40 Love’s flirtatious Fox teases the senses with bold botanicals

By Alison Bailin Batz / Photo by Debby Wolvos

The newly opened 40 Love’s cocktail program is designed to mirror the venue itself: polished yet playful, refined but never rigid. Drawing inspiration from sport, social energy and modern mixology, the bar balances elevated technique with bold presentation, offering drinks that feel celebratory, approachable and unmistakably Scottsdale.

“Our goal was to create a beverage program that feels sophisticated and creative while still being fun and engaging,” says Kyle Carnine, general manager of 40 Love. “Every cocktail needs to look beautiful, taste exceptional and make sense in a lively, social setting.”

That philosophy is captured seamlessly in the Fox ($18), one of the menu’s most talked-about debut offerings. The modern botanical sour walks a fine line between elegance and intrigue, delivering layered flavor beneath a delicate, floral facade. “The Fox is an approachable crowd-pleaser, but in disguise,” Carnine says. “It uses refined ingredients like lavender and elderflower for cocktail enthusiasts, but the mango and guava give it broad palate appeal.”

The build begins with housemade lavender-infused Wheatly vodka. Fiorente elderflower liqueur, housemade lychee puree and a touch of real guava puree are added next. The mix is complete with fresh lemon juice and a few dashes of Fee Foam, creating a creamy texture.

After a light shake, the Fox is strained into a coupe and topped with sparkling mango juice, adding effervescence and a bright finish. It is garnished with hibiscus dust and an edible orchid for added visual appeal.

“On the nose, you get lavender, elderflower and ripe mango right away,” Carnine says. “The finish is clean, crisp, and refreshing, with just enough floral and fruit lingering to keep you coming back.”

40 Love, 7117 E. 6th Ave., Scottsdale; 480.275.8709; www.40lovegroup.com.