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Tag Archives: men’s league

Bourbon and Pear

Day 311, Cocktail 313

Wednesday was my friend and Men’s League founder Mark’s birthday.  I had invited him to come over to the Twilight Lounge for a drink, but he instead invited me over for a cocktail so he could show off his latest effort, as well as his new bar room in his basement.  The room is spectacular, with stone walls, a beamed ceiling and a table and benches that Mark assembled and antiqued himself – and this table is so solid I’m sure it could take a direct hit from a cruise missile!

The cocktail was also solidly built and delicious.  Here it is:

  Mark’s Bourbon Pear

  • 1-1/2 oz Maker’s Mark bourbon
  • 1 oz Mathilde Pear liqueur
  • 1/2 oz lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz bar syrup

Combine the ingredient in a shaker with ice and shake to chill and mix.  Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a couple of basil leaves.

Excellent cocktail Mark!  The pear is evident and softens the bourbon, making for a very drinkable, yet boozy cocktail.  And the basil garnish adds a nice botanical scent and flavor to the drink.  A cocktail that I highly recommend!

Cheers!

It’s Martini Time

Day 192, Cocktail 190

Wednesday night marked the return of the Men’s League.  The Reverend Horton Heat at Turner Hall Ballroom was on the menu – I really like his hard driving rockabilly style and what’s not to like when you have not just a song but a whole album named It’s Martini Time? 

As usual, the first stop of the night was Bryant’s for a cocktail.  John Dye was behind the bar when we arrived and I asked for something in gin.  John whipped up a no name (read – original) cocktail that consisted of Hendricks, Aquavit (a caraway flavored neutral grain spirit), Cointreau and lemon juice.  The caraway really pops in this, giving the drink a spicy, almost peppery flavor.  It was a very interesting combination and went down all too easy.

Unfortunately, we only had time for one at Bryant’s before moving on the show.  The Reverend was fantastic, pounding out all his favorites, including It’s Martini Time, Suicide Doors and Big Red Rocket of Love. 

Cheers!