Recipes 337

Historian Hadley Meares delves into Hollywood’s portrayal of cocktails in cinema, exploring how iconic films shaped perceptions of drinking culture. She reflects on how the French 75 in "Casablanca" carries hidden meanings that enhance the cinematic experience.

Alongside her, journalist Aaron Goldfarb investigates the world of vintage spirits, following collectors who pursue rare bottles that have become sought-after treasures since Prohibition. He emphasizes how brands like Pappy Van Winkle have turned collecting vintage booze into a competitive sport.

Sociologist Nicola Nice sheds light on the pivotal role women played in the cocktail revolution, tracing their influence from pre-Civil War Virginia to modern cocktail culture today.

Lesley Jacobs Solmonson offers a historical perspective on liqueurs, explaining their transition from apothecary shelves to the bars, enriching the choices available to mixologists.

Finally, Evan Rail takes on the role of detective, recounting the story of an absinthe enthusiast who turned out to be a con artist, highlighting the darker side of the historic drink.

These discussions encapsulate the intersection of culture, history, and the art of cocktail making, celebrating the stories behind the spirits we enjoy today.

For more information, you can explore related topics on KCRW’s Good Food.

Wine cocktails offer a refreshing alternative to traditional spirit-based drinks. With an average alcohol by volume (ABV) of about 12%, wine cocktails provide a lighter option while still being versatile enough to include spirits for added complexity.

Here are eight iconic wine cocktails that will elevate your drinking experience beyond the classic sangria:

1. Wine Spritzer

A classic summer drink, the wine spritzer combines soda water with wine and fresh herbs or fruits.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz unoaked white wine (like Pinot Grigio)
• 2 oz club soda
• 4 sprigs of mint
• 2 slices of lemon

Method:Fill a wine glass with ice, add wine, mint, and lemon slices, then stir. Top with soda water and garnish with a mint sprig.

2. Frosé

This frozen rosé is a delightful summer treat.

Ingredients (4-6 servings):

• 1 bottle of Pinot Noir-based rosé
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 12 oz frozen strawberries
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

Method:Blend all ingredients until smooth and serve in wine glasses, garnished with a fresh strawberry.

3. Bellini

Originating in Venice, the Bellini is a sweet and bubbly cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz white peach puree
• 6 oz Prosecco

Method:Mash white peaches and add puree to a flute glass, then top with chilled Prosecco. Stir gently.

4. Kir Royale

This elegant cocktail mixes black currant liqueur with Champagne.

Ingredients:

• 2 tsp Crème de cassis
• 5 oz Champagne

Method:Pour Crème de cassis into a flute glass and top with Champagne. Garnish with a black currant.

5. French 75

A sophisticated blend of gin and Champagne, this cocktail has historical roots.

Ingredients:

• 3 oz Champagne
• 1 oz gin
• 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup

Method:Shake gin, simple syrup, and lemon juice with ice, strain into a flute, float Champagne on top, and garnish with a lemon twist.

6. Mimosa

A brunch staple combine orange juice and sparkling wine.

Ingredients:

• 3 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
• 3 oz chilled sparkling wine

Method:Combine equal parts orange juice and sparkling wine in a flute glass; stir briefly and garnish with a slice of orange.

7. Kalimotxo

A unique combination of red wine and cola originating from Spain.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz Rioja red wine
• 4 oz Coca-Cola

Method:Fill a highball glass with ice, add red wine followed by cola, and garnish with a lemon wheel.

8. Devil’s Margarita

This creative cocktail features a red wine floater atop a traditional margarita base.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz blanco tequila
• 1 oz lime juice
• 0.75 oz red wine
• 0.5 oz agave syrup

Method:Shake tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup with ice, strain into a coupe glass, and float red wine on top.

These cocktails highlight wine’s versatility and charm, inviting you to explore new flavors and combinations for your next gathering or relaxing evening at home.

The Rooftop at the Revere Hotel is set to host a Summer party tomorrow night, promising guests an evening filled with refreshing cocktails, delectable bites, and live entertainment. This event aims to bring together locals and visitors alike for a lively night out, ideal for welcoming the warmer summer nights. Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere, making it a perfect opportunity to unwind and socialize in an appealing setting.

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, it marks the unofficial arrival of summer—a perfect time to celebrate with friends and family. This holiday weekend often involves gatherings where refreshing drinks are a must, whether you’re hosting a casual backyard barbecue or a lively pool party. While a cooler filled with beers is always a safe option, impressing your guests with creative cocktails can elevate the experience.

Here are 11 cocktail recipes that are not only easy to prepare but also refreshingly delicious, perfectly suited for your Memorial Day celebrations:

1. Wild Gin & Tonic
   This twist on the classic gin and tonic incorporates toasted Szechuan peppercorns for a subtle heat, yuzu juice, orange bitters, and elderflower tonic water for added complexity.
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2. Singapore Sling
   A modern version of a 19th-century cocktail combining gin, Cherry Heering, orange liqueur, Bénédictine, and pineapple and lime juices. Perfect for any poolside party.
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3. Charred Citrus Margarita
   If you’re firing up the grill, this margarita features grilled grapefruit, oranges, and tangerines, offering a smoky twist on a traditional favorite.
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4. Honey Mint Julep
   This refreshing drink replaces simple syrup with honey syrup to complement bourbon and mint. Served over crushed ice, it’s perfect for hot days.
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5. Godfather
   A simple yet sophisticated cocktail made of two parts scotch and one part amaretto. It offers a smooth, almond-flavored experience.
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6. Tommy’s Margarita
   This minimalist take on the margarita uses tequila, agave syrup, and lime, allowing the agave flavors to shine without the orange liqueur.
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7. Rusty Nail
   A two-ingredient cocktail of scotch whisky and Drambuie that creates a smooth, herbal drink—ideal for relaxed gatherings.
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8. Mojito
   A classic combination of unaged rum, sugar, fresh lime, and mint, topped with club soda for a refreshing zing.
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9. Ranch Water
   Perfect for warm weather, Ranch Water combines tequila, fresh lime juice, and sparkling mineral water for a light, refreshing drink.
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10. Hemingway Daiquiri
    A tribute to the author, this version features white rum, lime juice, maraschino liqueur, and grapefruit juice for a tart and slightly sweet flavor.
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11. Dirty Martini Spritz
    Combining the classic Dirty Martini with the effervescence of a spritz, this cocktail delivers a briny, botanical flavor profile enhanced by club soda.
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These cocktails are sure to make your Memorial Day celebration memorable and delicious!

A popular pub in Poole, known as The Cliff Country Pub & Restaurant, has been recognized for its stunning location and exceptional cocktails. Run by Ian McQuade, the pub is praised for its warm atmosphere and versatility as a venue for various events, including private parties and intimate gatherings.

According to Ian, the establishment provides a premium menu featuring dishes such as tender steaks and fresh seafood, along with what he claims to be "the best cocktails in the area." The pub’s garden is highlighted as a prime feature, especially during hot summer days, enhancing its appeal for visitors seeking a lovely dining experience.

The interior has been recently refurbished, creating a cozy ambiance that complements the vibrant environment. Ian emphasizes that the atmosphere of the pub plays a significant role in attracting customers, making it a popular choice for everything from first dates to anniversary celebrations.

In addition to its top-notch dining options, The Cliff has recently begun hosting live music, promising a jazz night on May 26 featuring Nicole McNally. They are also preparing for a summer solstice party on June 21, which will include live music and a DJ, celebrating the longest day of the year.

Ian invites everyone to experience The Cliff, highlighting the combination of exquisite food, great cocktails, and the pub’s beautiful setting next to the beach, making it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists.

The restaurant landscape has seen significant changes due to the pandemic, with many beloved establishments closing their doors. Among those affected were iconic spots like The Thirsty Scholar and R.F. O’Sullivan & Son on Beacon Street, both of which were purchased during a real estate deal and briefly revived but ultimately succumbed to closure once again. R.F. O’Sullivan transitioned to the Hawaiian-themed Cornerstone, but this venture was short-lived, giving way to the upcoming Bonanza Bites & Cocktails.

In this evolving scene, The Thirsty Scholar has returned as Tall Order, a gastropub that captures the essence of its predecessor, which notably featured in the film "The Social Network." Upon entering Tall Order, guests are greeted with a familiar dark wood ambiance and a cozy small patio.

The menu represents an upscale twist on typical pub fare. While classic options like burgers and chicken sandwiches are available, the chicken sandwich is prepared in a Japanese style known as karaage, complemented by a miso honey mustard sauce. The snack offerings are diverse and elevated, including pickled mushrooms bursting with tangy flavor, bluefish pâté, and duck confit sliders.

Notably, the Baby Iceberg Salad stands out, offering a refreshing twist with ripe avocado slices, pumpkin seeds, salted cucumbers, and a zesty green goddess dressing. The roasted cod is another highlight: served on a bed of lemon butter saffron rice, it is perfectly flaky, topped with a citric-infused slaw.

Desserts include a flan adorned with croissant crumble and green pumpkin seeds. The drink menu caters to different preferences, featuring low-alcohol cocktails like the Little Panda—a light blend of Rhum J.M., vermouth, and fino sherry—and non-alcoholic options like the Blue Shroom, made from non-alcoholic rosé, cardamom, blueberry, and mushrooms.

Tall Order can be found at 70 Beacon St., Somerville, ready to welcome guests with a blend of familiar comfort and exciting new flavors.

The Riviera Maya in Mexico, stretching from Cancun to Tulum, is emerging as a premier cocktail destination, boasting an array of bars and lounges that offer inventive drinks amid its stunning beach locales. Historically, the region has been synonymous with frozen drinks and sugary concoctions, but a trend is reshaping its cocktail scene, replete with authentic and sophisticated choices.

Bars like Zapote in Rosewood Mayakoba, The Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai, and The St. Regis Kanai Resort are leading this transformation. They are crafting cocktails that feature local ingredients and showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage. Guests now expect intricately designed drinks, even when lounging on the beach.

At The Riviera Maya Edition, cocktails like the Espuma Colada—an elevated spin on the classic piña colada—pair fresh ingredients with a skillful design. The resort’s lobby bar emphasizes unique agave spirits for creative cocktails while maintaining a decor featuring local artifacts.

The St. Regis Kanai takes a holistic approach with an in-house herbalist who creates syrups and sodas from local botanicals. Their unique offerings include the Elote Old Fashioned, which incorporates Mexican corn whiskey and tamarind, reflecting a sophisticated take on beloved flavors.

Beyond Cancun, Tulum houses the acclaimed Arca, known for infusing jungle inspirations into its drinks and recently recognized as one of North America’s 50 Best Bars. Bambuco, located within the Belmond Maroma Resort, embodies a zero-waste ethos in its cocktail preparation, with favorites such as Tomato Is a Fruit and Smoked Basil exemplifying this commitment to sustainability.

In addition to established venues, a dynamic pop-up culture is fostering a vibrant network among bartenders. Notable bars are hosting guest bartenders from around the globe, enhancing visibility and creativity in the Riviera Maya’s cocktail scene.

Despite a lingering demand for frozen drinks, the region is increasingly recognized for its quality cocktail offerings, providing travelers with the opportunity to enjoy sophisticated options while basking under the sun.

Liqueurs are often viewed unfavorably due to some overly sweet, mainstream brands like Amaretto or Baileys Irish Cream that can easily overpower a drink. However, contemporary liqueurs offer lighter flavors, derived from natural infusions of herbs and fresh fruit, while still adhering to classification standards of at least 100 grams of sugar per liter and a minimum alcoholic strength of 15% ABV.

With an increasing trend for low ABV beverages, liqueurs present an appealing alternative to more potent spirits such as vodka and tequila. For instance, swapping out a standard vodka soda for a liqueur mixed with soda provides a refreshing option with lower alcohol content. Liqueurs can also enhance a cocktail’s complexity; for example, Grand Marnier, which blends the flavors of cognac and bitter orange, is a classic addition to margaritas, complementing the lime juice with its citrus notes.

Here are five standout liqueurs to consider for your home bar:

Chinola Pineapple Liqueur

Chinola, known for its fresh fruit liqueurs, recently launched its Pineapple Liqueur, meticulously crafted with ripe MD2 pineapples from the Dominican Republic. Bottled at 21% ABV, it’s perfect for mixing with soda water for a simple, refreshing cocktail.

Chambord Black Raspberry Liqueur

This French black raspberry liqueur, bottled at 16.5% ABV, brings a nuanced complexity to cocktails. Made from raspberries, blackberries, and blackcurrants, Chambord enhances drinks like the Chambord Royale and French Martini.

St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur

Launched in 2007, this elderflower liqueur has gained popularity, particularly during the spritz craze. With an ABV of 20%, St-Germain is vital in the popular Hugo Spritz, providing a unique alternative to traditional aperitifs.

Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto

Revived in 2016 by bartender Giuseppe Gallo, this Italian bergamot liqueur is 20% ABV and offers a distinct citrus-floral profile. Best enjoyed as an Italicus Spritz with Prosecco or soda, it showcases the liqueur’s complex aroma.

Grand Marnier

Originating in Cognac, France, Grand Marnier is made from handpicked oranges, creating a beautifully concentrated bitter orange flavor. It enhances margaritas and can substitute gin in a Tom Collins for a fresh twist.

These liqueurs not only spice up your cocktail repertoire but also cater to a growing preference for lighter, flavorful drinks.

A major supermarket chain has introduced a new collection of pre-mixed cocktails priced at significantly lower rates than larger brand options, just in time for the garden party season. These cocktails are perfect for warm days and barbecues, offering a hassle-free way to enjoy beverages.

Morrisons is now selling three flavors of these pre-mixed cocktails—Bliss on the Beach, Passion Fruit Martini, and Cosmo—in 75cl bottles for £6 each or two for £10. The Bliss on the Beach combines orange, cranberry, and vodka, while the Cosmo features vibrant notes of orange and lime. The Passion Fruit Martini brings a sweet twist with its passionfruit blend.

These ready-to-drink options not only save time but also prove to be economical, costing half as much as other pre-mixed cocktails on the market. According to Harry Barker, the Party Drinks Buyer at Morrisons, with summer approaching, they hope these fruity cocktails will enhance any summer celebration.

For an ideal serving suggestion, customers are encouraged to pour the cocktails over ice and garnish them with fruit to impress guests. The Morrisons Cocktail Collection is available both in retail stores and online across the UK.

This launch is particularly timely, coinciding with recent efforts from other brands, such as Schweppes, which has released a range of alcoholic cocktails as sales in the fizzy drink sector have seen declines.

Hustle into the new Good Night John Boy in Delray Beach, where a vibrant ’70s disco atmosphere awaits. Set to open on May 15, this nostalgic nightclub is located in the former Delray Beach Market building near Atlantic Avenue. As you step inside, you’ll encounter an explosion of harvest gold and avocado green colors, reminiscent of a pre-Reagan Era living room. Vintage decor fills the space, from corded rotary telephones and wood-paneled walls to posters of Farrah Fawcett and hanging disco balls.

The club’s co-owner, Michael Schwartz, aims to capture the essence of his childhood home in Cleveland, Ohio, which influenced the venue’s design. Schwartz reminisces about his childhood’s grungy basement, filled with nostalgic items like orange shag carpets and a collection of beer cans. The nightclub features not just a dance floor but also a variety of cocktails named after the retro vibe, such as the Dirty Ashtray and Chevy to the Levee, alongside a menu of classic bar foods.

Despite the throwback theme, Schwartz notes that the clientele is largely young, drawn in by the allure of ’70s hits like "Funkytown" and "Disco Inferno." Patrons come dressed in bell-bottoms, eager to dance the night away on a light-up floor inspired by "Saturday Night Fever."

Good Night John Boy is one of six locations across the country under the Forward Hospitality Group, founded by Schwartz and partners Dante Deiana and Bobby Rutter. Their goal is to craft immersive nightlife experiences. Schwartz suggests that the playful and intricate themes they develop reflect personal memories, creating unique environments that resonate with patrons.

For the menu, Schwartz opted for modern takes on classic favorites. Items include delicious bar pizzas like the Smokey Robinson and the Kevin Bacon, along with burgers served on Martin’s potato rolls. The drink menu features a fun collection of cocktails, including disco-themed options that offer playful twists on traditional drinks.

The grand opening on May 15 is expected to draw those eager for a taste of nostalgia mixed with a lively atmosphere at 33 SE Third Ave., Delray Beach. For more information, you can visit GoodNightJB.com/delraybeach.