Gary Regan, a teacher, mentor, and friend, once said, and I quote: “When you’re behind the stick, NEVER talk about politics.” Since I’m in front of the stick at the moment, and behind my laptop screen, I’m able to discuss this topic.
The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) recently asked me to create some politically themed cocktails. As we all know, the Democratic National Convention is coming to a close this week, and the Republicans are rearin’ to go next week. DISCUS will be serving these cocktails at various Election-related events throughout the country. They’ve already served some of them in Denver this week!
For your enjoyment, oh kind reader, I’ve included these recipes below. Please try not to judge, and for heaven’s sake please don’t try to guess my political stance. You’ll be rattling your brains from now until November.
Here they are. Rock the vote.
The Arizona Maverick
1 oz. Buffalo Trace Bourbon
3/4 oz. Simple Syrup
3 lemon wedges
1/2 of a ripe peach
1 oz. Champagne
Directions: Muddle the peach and lemon in the simple syrup. Then add the Rye and ice and shake well. Strain into an ice-filled old fashioned glass. Top off with the champagne.
Garnish: peach slice
The Obama Cocktail for a Change
1 oz. Beefeater Gin
1/4 oz. Faretti Biscotti Liqueur OR Dimmi Italian Liqueur
1/4 oz.Cinzano Dry Vermouth
2 dashes Fee Brother’s Orange Bitters
Directions: Stir ingredients in a mixing glass with cracked ice. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish: orange peel
Red State Round-Up
1 oz. Herradura Reposado Tequila
1/2 oz. Grand Marnier
3/4 oz. Home-made Grenadine**
1/4 oz. Fresh lemon juice
1 egg white
Club Soda
Directions: First, shake the egg white to emulsify. Then add remaining ingredients to cocktail shaker with ice and shake well. Strain into an ice-filled highball glass. Top with sparkling water.
Garnish: freshly grated nutmeg and lemon wheel
**to make home-made grenadine, simply take 1 cup of store-bought pomegranate juice, and 1 cup of superfine sugar, and shake until all the sugar is dissolved.
Blue State Build-Up
1 oz. 10 Cane Rum
1 tsp. Blue Curacao
1/2 oz. St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur
1/2 oz. Fresh lemon juice
1 dash Fee Brothers Aromatic Bitters
Directions: Stir ingredients in a mixing glass with cracked ice. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish: 3 floating blueberries
