Spoiler alert: It’s not the vermouth. Here’s an actual conversation I had at a recent spirits tasting—and l have some version of this conversation at least once a week with someone somewhere: Customer: “Oh, I like that cocktail. I hate dry vermouth, but I like that cocktail.”Me: “Why do you hate dry vermouth?”Customer: “Because it … Continue reading I know why you don’t like vermouth
Vermouth diTorino
Seminar offering: “Vermouth—A star is reborn!”
When: Wednesday, October 26, 2022 - 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.Where: Pinnacle Wine & Liquor, 1720 Monroe Ave, Brighton ( just west of Twelve Corners)Advance ticket purchase required. Registration link: https://www.pinnacleliquor.com/events/i81121322p Seminar Description: Using a selection of vermouths available at Pinnacle Wine & Liquor for illustration, this seminar will review the history and evolution of … Continue reading Seminar offering: “Vermouth—A star is reborn!”
The Reverse Manhattan (or is it “inverse?”)
Here’s a fun way to get out of a cocktail rut: Take a classic and reverse it. This won’t work for every cocktail, but even where it arguably doesn’t, the experiment will add to your visceral understanding of what various ingredients bring to a mix. Let’s start with the venerable Manhattan—conventionally two parts bourbon or … Continue reading The Reverse Manhattan (or is it “inverse?”)
The Pedro Martinez
I found this recipe in Imbibe Magazine a couple of years ago, enjoyed another one last night, and I love absolutely everything about it—even the absinthe, which is an acquired taste that’s grown on me over the past decade. Michael Shea, at the Rum Club in Portland, Oregon, gets credit for creating this drink. The … Continue reading The Pedro Martinez
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
The Libation Lounge 