Riders of the Pepper Sage

Prepare red bell pepper shrub: combine 4 oz agave syrup, 4 oz unfiltered apple cider vinegar, 4 oz diced red bell pepper and 1 to 2 jalapeno slices. Simmer over low heat 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat, stir in 5 to 10 sage leaves, cover and cool. Refrigerate 24 to 48 hours and strain. Muddle the fresh red bell pepper, listed jalapeno slice and salt with the listed shrub portion. Add rye and mezcal and gently press the listed 5 fresh sage leaves. Shake with ice at least 20 seconds and strain into a small glass without serving ice. Slap the additional large sage leaf, wipe around the rim and discard it. Attach the dried sage leaf to the finishing red pepper slice, briefly light the leaf, extinguish the flame and serve while it smokes, keeping ashes out of the drink.