Continuing the Franco-Irish theme from yesterday’s Brotherhood cocktail, here’s a great recipe that actually does include Cognac alongside the Irish whiskey. It’s up to you whether to go full Franco-Irish and use Hennessey Cognac or select your favorite other Cognac. I happened to use Jameson Black Barrel Irish whiskey for this one, but use your … Continue reading The Parlez-vous Irish Cocktail
The Brotherhood (Aye, but sisters like it, too.)
On this St. Patrick’s Day Eve, we offer a liquid tribute to the centuries-old bond between the peoples of Ireland and France. There is a history of commerce between the two nations dating back to the 12th century and beyond. Even before 1796, when France sent an expedition to support an Irish rebellion against the … Continue reading The Brotherhood (Aye, but sisters like it, too.)
The Broadmoor
When I came across this recipe last year, I though it might be named after the famous Broadmoor resort hotel in Colorado Springs, which has a fairly noted bar—The Golden Bee. But no. It turns out this cocktail originated in London, England, around 2001 and is named for the high-security Broadmoor psychiatric hospital west of … Continue reading The Broadmoor
The Irish Blonde
Enough with the Irish coffees and car bombs; there are a lot of delicious, less traditional ways to enjoy your Irish whiskey. This cocktail was created by Dale DeGroff, a noted American bartender—most famously the chief bartender at New York City’s Rainbow Room from 1987-1999—and author of two best-selling cocktail books: The Essential Cocktail and … Continue reading The Irish Blonde
Irish Whiskey Celebrated and Explained
There is so, so, so much more in the world of Irish adult beverages than Guinness—not that there’s anything wrong with Guinness, of course. For the final 13 years of my full-time career, I worked for a naturalized Irish-American gentleman whose motto was apparently, “Who needs food when there’s Guinness??” But yes, there’s more. According … Continue reading Irish Whiskey Celebrated and Explained
Bloody Rock of Sages
Everyone sing along: "Rock of ages, bled for me ... " Blood orange juice and sage in the house? Strike while the ice is cold! A note on technique first, prompted by how much crushed cherry and sage will be floating around in the shaker after you shake this mixture well with ice. You’ll see … Continue reading Bloody Rock of Sages
I Try This S**t so You Don’t Have to: Glow Coasters
Well, they sounded like a good idea ... I saw this product mentioned in a trade magazine article a couple of weeks ago, along with a very lovely photo, so I decided to try them. In some of my cocktail photos over the years, I've experimented with various approaches to up-lighting, and the premise is … Continue reading I Try This S**t so You Don’t Have to: Glow Coasters
The Dubliner
As long as you're stocking up on Irish whiskey for St. Patrick's Day, consider this easy-to-make variation on the classic Manhattan. Instead of bourbon or rye, use your favorite Irish whiskey, and instead of a full ounce of sweet vermouth, use half-ounces of Grand Marnier or another curaçao and a hearty sweet vermouth. It's an … Continue reading The Dubliner
Not That You Asked: Russian Vodka Boycotts
Americans do love a good boycott. Boycotts make ordinary people feel like they have a voice, if only we all participate, and I admit that I’m an activist on lots of issues and have joined in a few boycotts over the years. If you think you hear a “but” coming, you’re right. There’s been a … Continue reading Not That You Asked: Russian Vodka Boycotts
Of Irish Maids and Dead Rabbits
What penance does the Archbishop of Dublin prescribe for a supplicant who makes a drink called “Irish Maid,” using Irish whiskey, but incorporating an English cucumber?? Asking for a friend. Okay, don’t answer that. Anyone who has a drop of Irish blood in them—or who lives within 100 miles of anyone who does, which is … Continue reading Of Irish Maids and Dead Rabbits
The Libation Lounge 