Introduction:
Introduction
As the sun shines and temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite like sipping on a delicious cocktail to beat the summer heat. As part of episode 31 of the Technical Proof show, we explored the world of summer cocktails with Tony Larson, a craft bartender and beverage consultant from Seattle. Tony shares his insights on the flavors of summer and two enticing cocktail recipes that are perfect for enjoying on a patio or rooftop. Get ready to elevate your summer drinking experience with these citrusy, refreshing, and boozy concoctions.
Citrus: The Essence of Summer:
When it comes to summer cocktails, citrus is the star ingredient. Tony explains that citrus flavors perfectly complement the outdoors, making them ideal for outdoor and day drinking. Whether it’s the tangy kick of lime or the zesty notes of lemon, citrus adds a vibrant and refreshing element to any drink.
Pairing Boozy Notes with Citrus:
Tony suggests that different spirits pair well with specific citrus fruits. Clear spirits like gin typically work best with lime juice, while brown spirits such as whiskey are often paired with lemon juice. However, there are no hard and fast rules, and experimentation is encouraged. Ultimately, it’s about finding the right balance and creating a drink that suits your taste preferences.
The Buckhead Cocktail: A Strawberry Twist on a Whiskey Sour:
Tony introduces us to the Buckhead Cocktail, their version of a whiskey sour at his bar, the Revelry Room. This upgraded cocktail combines bourbon, lemon, sugar, strawberry-infused Cynar (an amaro), and a delightful blend of angostura and rhubarb bitters. The result is a well-balanced, tart, and fruity drink that is both refreshing and perfect for patio sipping.
The Mint Julep: A Minty Bourbon Delight:
In honor of Juneteenth and to pay homage to black history, Tony shares a cocktail inspired by Tom Bullock, a pre-prohibition bartender, and the first African-American to write a cocktail book. The Mint Julep is a mint-forward drink that showcases the beauty of Kentucky bourbon. Muddled mint leaves, sugar, and bourbon come together to create a spirit-forward cocktail with a touch of summer freshness.
Conclusion:
Summer is the season for enjoying outdoor activities and indulging in refreshing cocktails. With the guidance of Tony Larson, we’ve explored the world of summer cocktails and discovered two delightful recipes to elevate our drinking experience. Whether you prefer the citrusy tang of the Buckhead Cocktail or the minty allure of the Mint Julep, these drinks are sure to quench your thirst and make your summer gatherings memorable. So grab your cocktail shaker, gather some fresh ingredients, and get ready to savor the flavors of summer. Cheers to sunny days and delicious drinks!