Excellent post on the Fog Cutter. I always forget about this one, probably because of all the citrus squeezing, but it’s one of my favorite exotic cocktails.

Though I’m not in love with the Monin, I have to admit that I do use it. Making homemade orgeat is another Thomas Keller project, and though I don’t shy away from such things by any means, the final result let much to be desired. I best go check out Scott’s post, as I’ve been meaning to for some time.

And I think your orange twist looks great!

As to the layering, I can usually do it successfully, but I think that Murphy’s Law came into play since I was planning on taking the photo.

Do you think a properly placed sherry layer improves the drink significantly?

For Orgeat, you might want to try some home-made. The best way isn’t easy, but it is fantastic. There’s a quick way that takes 10 minutes and is still better than the Monin.

http://scottesrum.com/2007/08/31/gnomon-rulez-homemade-orgeat-and-more/

(A concentration of links from another tiki-phile.)

For the float, did you try the old “layering” trick by pouring it onto the back of a spoon? And I think the twist looks great - no worries!