Drink of the Moment, 4th of July Edition: Melted Bomb Pop

It's Independence Day this week for the old US of A, and that means drinks all around!!  What says summertime and America (and on sooo many levels) more than the traditional stand-by at swimming pools and ice cream stands all over this nation - the 'Bomb Pop'?  Who can forget eating them as a kid and winding up with that classic blue mouth afterwards?  So, I figured why not work up a nifty adult version to celebrate the season with all of the fun, flavor, and nostalgic fondness with a little more 'pop', if you will, and a little less of the blue mouth aftermath.  Ready to accompany all of your grilling and fireworks festivities, I present to you 'The Melted Bomb Pop'.  

The Melted Bomb Pop

Splash of Rose's Grenadine
1 part Stolichnaya Wild Cherri Vodka  

2 parts UV Blue, Raspberry Flavored Vodka

3 parts Sparkling Lemonade (I used 'Sparkling Ice' Lemonade)
Popsicle stick

Start by ensuring that all items have been chilled for at least 24 hours.  (I keep my vodkas in the freezer, and my mixers in the fridge).  Once chilled thoroughly, put a generous splash of Rose's Grenadine Syrup into a champagne flute, or similarly shaped glass.  Add 1 part (1 oz for a single cocktail) Stoli Wild Cherri vodka, and let settle.  Once settled, slowly add 1 1/2 parts UV Blue vodka, pouring over the back of a spoon to layer the liquor; let settle.  Once settled, slowly pour 3 parts of your sparkling lemonade over the back of a spoon to layer; let settle.  At this point, your lemonade should have fallen to the middle of the glass, separating the red and blue.  Once stable, slowly add the extra 1/2 part of UV Blue to the top, using the spoon method to layer, to ensure you have a strong blue finish to your beverage.  Garnish with a plain popsicle stick if you have one handy.  Enjoy!!

**Note: If the 'melted' aspect of the cocktail doesn't have you super excited, you can also whip this up as a frozen 'Deconstructed Bomb Pop', if you will, by adding shaved ice with each layer.  If you give this method a try, be sure that you layer your ice with each layer of the drink so you maintain the color separation.



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Drink of the Moment, Birthday Edition: Mint Chocolate Chip Cake

Batter up!  Next in this special birthday edition series 'Drink of the Moment' is chocolate-y, mint-y, and so so yummy.  For the love of all things good, you are going to want to try this cake-tail.  It has been my birthday boy's favorite so far.  If you've missed the first two, you can find them by clicking here, and here.  :) 

Mint Chocolate Chip Cake-tail

2oz Three Olives Cake Vodka

1oz Chocolate Liquer

1oz Creme de Menthe

Chocolate Whip-a-hol

Chocolate shavings, sprinkles, etc

Place first three ingredients in a shaker over ice.  Shake vigorously, and pour into glass.  Top with whipped cream or whip-a-hol, and garnish with chocolate, or use crushed cookies to rim the glass prior to filling.  Enjoy!


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Drink of the Moment, Birthday Edition: Cherry Cheesecake

Let the birthday cake-tails continue!  Second in the lineup packs the punch of a cheesecake without all of the calories and just as much (if not more) of the fun.

Cherry Cheesecake-tail

1oz Three Olives Cake vodka

1oz Stoli Wild Cherri

Splash of Butterscotch Schnapps

1/2oz White Cranberry Juice

Maraschino Cherries

Whipped Topping

Place first four ingredients in a shaker filled with ice.  Shake vigorously, and pour into glass.  Place maraschino cherry or two into glass and top with whipped topping.  Dig in!

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Drink of the Moment, Birthday Edition: Jay's Birthday Chocolate Cake Martini

Yay, it's Jay's birthday this week(end), and that means cake for everyone!  There isn't much that I like more than cake, though a good soup runs a close second.  Cake and soup, soup and cake ... it makes me smile just thinking about them.  Not everyone has the same affinity for a hearty slice of cake though, even if it is their birthday.  It is in this area that I suppose Jay and I balance each other out a bit- otherwise I might have a fairly poor diet going on.  So, what do you do when the birthday boy isn't anxiously looking forward to acquiring a whole cake of his own?  Well, I say you build an idea on a tried and true favorite and turn that into the best hybrid birthday cake a guy (or girl) could ask for.  In the past I have used things like stacked brownies, etc, but this year it's all about the birthday cake cocktail.  I know Jay is already a convert, and I don't think any guests joining in the celebration will miss the traditional cake one bit either.  Even better, since there isn't just one big cake to share, everyone gets a say in what kind of cake they want to drink and I'll be sharing a few of varieties with you over the next day or so.  On a side note, all of these are made with Three Olives 'Cake' vodka, which I highly recommend acquiring if it's not already in your arsenal.  Seriously, you are missing out on life if you don't try it.  So on that note, cake for everyone - starting with Jay's first chocolate cake martini.  In his own words, after finishing in record speed  ... "It's tasty!"

Chocolate Cake Martini

1oz Three Olive Cake Vodka

1oz Godiva Chocolate liquer

1oz Bailey's

German Chocolate Whipahol

Godiva Hot Chocolate Mix

Place first 3 ingredients in shaker filled with ice.  Shake vigorously.  Pour into glass, and top with German Chocolate Whipahol; sprinkle with hot chocolate mix. Enjoy!

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Drink of the Moment: Honey DO!

It's Memorial Day weekend, and we all know what that means!  Good times, good friends, and  ... good grief it's been a long time since I've done a Drink of the Moment!  For those of you that thought I had fallen ON the wagon (you know who you are), NEVER FEAR for I am back with a fantastic beverage for whatever upcoming weekend fete you might be gearing up for.  I call it the 'Honey Do' since it's sweet, melony, and easy enough for your someone else to whip up for you all afternoon so you don't have to lift a finger.  Sounds perfect, no?  Oh, and let me not forget to mention that it is neon green.  Who doesn't have fun drinking a glowy green drink - a total DO .  Give it a chug (or three) and let me know what you think!

The Honey Do

3/4-1oz Stoli Sticki honey flavored vodka

2oz Midori melon liquer

1/2 oz lime juice

1/2 oz simple syrup

Club Soda

Lime &/or blackberry for garnish

Mix first 4 ingredients in a shaker filled with ice and shake vigorously.  Pour into your glass, top with club soda, and garnish with fruit.  Easy peasy.

You can also do this one up instead of on the rocks if it tickles your fancy.  Just be sure to reduce the lime and simple syrup slightly so they don't overpower the flavor of the melon, or maybe add some more Midori if you go this route.  Either way, your own fate lies in the balance here, and the last thing anyone wants is to taste something gone horribly awry called a 'Honey Don't'.

Cheers!

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ABSOLUT Folly - Holiday Series - Absolut Vitamin C

So I have outdone myself.  I know, I know - I am just a guest on this blog.  I know that you think the Absolut Holiday Series would come to a close after Christmas.  But NO!  Delicious Absolut Vodka cocktails will continue through New Year's and we don't have any time to waste.  No we don't.  Not a minute.

I woke up this morning and said to myself, I am thirsty.  But I also felt that some of my nutrients and vitamin levels were a bit low.  Thirst + Low Vitamins + After Holiday Need For A Pick-Me-Up equals only one thing to resolve that:  Absolut Vitamin C.  This is a really refreshing, with the kick of a natural energy drink that will have you sailing through the Boxing Day sales with ease and patience.  (Wait, do you guys even know what Boxing Day is?  Hmmm how should I explain this.  OK, got it!   It is Black Friday without the violence with everyone speaking French in Québec!  FUN!  Plus, you get to use your gift cards that you received for Christmas.  Smart, right?  I know, I know!)  While I would love to continue to enhance your culture, you need to get your Fannie Mae in gear and make this spectacular cocktail that will really surprise you!

Absolut Vitamin C
Find yourself a sassy, spunky glass that is 8 oz and fill it with ice.  (For some reason, this holiday I am stuck on these cocktails in white wine glasses filled with ice.   Don't know why, but it works!)
Add 2 oz of Absolut Ruby Red
Fill almost to the top with fresh squeezed orange juice.  (You can substitute with fake, concentrate, but you will really be missing out...)
1-2 splashes of Perrier or Club Soda
Garnish with a lime if you would like.

I am telling you .. I am on FIRE!  You will LOVE LOVE IT!   Happy Boxing!  Joyeuses Fêtes à vous tous!!!

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ABSOLUT Folly - Holiday Series - (cheat) Absolut Holiday S'mores Delight

So have you liked what the Absolut Secret Santa has been throwing your way?  The holidays have been filled with lots of new recipes and chocolate seems to be where it is at this Christmas.  What is great about making vodka cocktails with chocolate liqueurs is that they are chocolatey and refreshing without hitting you over the head with sweet!  I know we have indulged in caramels and truffles and cakes and pies and .... (let the belt out) ... puddings and mousses and ... (let the belt out more) ... Hershey's kisses!

So I cheated with this one.  I had to do it!  I went to the ABC store in Virginia and discovered quite a few new vodkas out on the market.  Smirnoff just released a Fluffy Marshmallow and a Whipped Cream (à la Pinacle Whipped Cream) so I had to try it.  It tasted like a S'mores Delight so I knew that I had to share it with you.  Such a great surprise .. and when you taste it ... it will make you say POW-WOW!  You might even bark ... but then that would be, BOW-WOW.  So scratch that.  It's simple and easy .. so try it!

S'mores Delight
Fill a wine glass with ice
Fill half the glass with Smirnoff Fluffy Marshmallow vodka
2 splashes of Crème de Cacao liqueur
Finish it off with Perrier or Club Soda
Mix and ... WOW!

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ABSOLUT Folly - Holiday Series - Absolut Christmas Chocolate Truffle

YUM YUM YUM!  Those Absolut Caesars were delicious this morning, but now it is time for some lighter Absolut cocktails as we move into the afternoon hours.  Absolut Christmas Chocolate Truflle is a spectacular cocktail that my niece fell in love with after I created it.  We've have 2-3 already, and I am LOVING IT!  Nothing like unwrapping gifts with an Absolut buzz.  So simple.  So refreshing.  So Absolut!  Bottoms up (hahahaha)!

Absolut Christmas Chocolate Truffle
2 ounces Absolut Vanilia
2 splashes of Crème de Cacao (colorless)
1 white wine glass filled with ice
Fill the rest of the glass with ginger ale

Mix lightly .. and it is going to knock your Christmas slippers off!!  Keep unwrapping!!!!

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ABSOLUT Folly - Holiday Series - Absolut Caesar

Good Morning and Merry Christmas to all of you from the Secret Santa guest cocktail-er!  Traveling internationally has limited the time I have had to check in with delicious Absolut holiday cocktails, but it is not for naught:  I promise to spoil you silly!  It is important not to mistake my busy travels with neglect of Absolut.  No, no, no!  So with whom should you be spending your day today?  With Absolut, of course!  I have my favorite holiday cocktails coming up throughout the day - so lets's get started!

Ever heard of an Absolut Bloody Caesar?  Well, I have adapted it for the United States, which is where most of you probably reside.  Usually, this cocktail is made with Clamato, but we are going to change this up a bit.  If you like Bloody Marys, you'll love the Absolut Bloody Caesar.  Enjoy!

Absolut Bloody Caesar

Fill a 16oz red cup (or equivalent) to the rim with ice.  Very important!
2 oz of Absolut Vodka
4 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
2 dashes of Pete's Hot Sauce
1/4 teaspoon of ground horseradish
1 -2 teaspoons of pickle juice
salt and pepper
Finish filling the cup with Sting Ray Bloody Mary mix!

Stir or roll from glass to glass lightly and garnish with a lemon wedge and celery stalk!  Oh que c'est délicieux!  Bonne journée!

Wait until you see this afternoon's Absolut Cocktails!  OH WOW!   Amazing!

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ABSOLUT Folly - My Secret Santa Holiday Series

Ho! HO! HO!  Do I ever have a surprise for you (and kind of for me too)!  With the holidays shifting into full gear this week (in chronological order: Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy New Year, etc), it appears I have a drunk elf Secret Santa stopping in as a guest blogger to deliver fabulous little gifts straight from the package store. Picking up from where my 'Drink of the Moment' series left off, I hope you enjoy this 'ABSOLUT Folly'.  Don't you just love holiday surprises?

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Well Hello!  I have the distinct pleasure of being a guest blogger for this fabulous blog, with my specialty: Absolut cocktails made with the most wonderful vodka in the world, Absolut Vodka.  The posts will be grouped by theme so let's get started right away!

For the first (well, ok, second - see Absolut Snowy Cranberry Martini) cocktail I would like to present the delicious Absolut Mistletoe!  To have the greatest impact, you may wish to fire up the bombastic version of Justin Bieber's Mistletoe.  Not required.  But fun!  After all, we are having fun, right?  Moreover, having your holiday honey at your side will give even more excitement to this lovely libation.  I may have had one too many already, but to you my favorite readers, you must know that Absolut Vodka flows constantly through my veins.  And arteries.    What were we talking about?  Ah yes, the Absolut Mistletoe!

Absolut Mistletoe
1 part Absolut Vodka
2 parts cranberry juice
1 part swanky glass, filled with ice
splash of fresh lime juice
splash of lemon-lime soda
garnish with a mint sprig

Sip it down, and steal a smooch!   Gâtez-vous, chers amis!

(Did I mention my name?  No?  Well how about this ... tell me about your experience with Absolut Mistletoe in the comments section, and I will consider it.  Maybe!)

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Drink of the Moment: Snowy Cranberry Martini

I don't know about you, but I can't keep up this holiday season!  Decking the halls, buying, wrapping, visiting, and this marathon cold I can't shake ... it can all get so overwhelming (and cause serious lapses between blog posts).  Thank goodness for good friends and good booze to help take that edge off all of that, as well as helping manage the added face-time with family too!  This week, my stunningly handsome and fabulously gifted friend Jeff has provided the inspiration for the 'Drink of the Moment'; one gift that will keep on giving.  I hope you enjoy!

Snowy Cranberry Martini   
2oz of your favorite vodka (I used Stoli) 
1 1/2 oz white cranberry juice
Splash of club soda or Perrier 
Lime wedge, fresh cranberries, & powdered sugar for garnish


Vigorously shake vodka and cranberry juice with ice in a shaker.  Pour into a glass rimmed with lime juice & powdered sugar (unless you have a better way to achieve the look of snow); top with a splash of club soda or Perrier.  Garnish with fresh cranberries and lime wedge.  Festive!


And for those of you who like a little variation on a theme ...

The Yellow Snowy Cranberry Martini
2oz of your favorite vodka (I used Stoli)
1oz white cranberry juice 
1/2 oz fresh lime juice
Splash of club soda or Perrier
Lime wedge, fresh cranberries, & powdered sugar for garnish


Vigorously shake vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice with ice in a shaker.  Pour into a glass rimmed with lime juice & powdered sugar; top with a splash of club soda or Perrier.  Garnish with fresh cranberries and lime wedge.

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Drink of the Moment: In a Pickle

This week, I had been working on a lovely little spiced pear beverage for the 'Drink of the Moment' to kick off the fall season.  As life would have it though, I couldn't seem to get the pear drink tweaked *just* right, and found myself in a bit of a pickle.  Musing on what direction I should go in next, I ended up hitting that proverbial wall.  Of course, what's the best thing to do when you hit a wall like this?  Hit the liquor store, of course!

Although I'm unfortunately still on a quest to find the whole pear thing I was looking for at the store, I did find something else that certainly caught my eye.  As things would have it, there was a tasting in the good ole Va ABC this evening, and thanks to this good fortune, I am able to share with you the 'Naked Jay Dirty Pickle Martini'.  Yes folks, you heard me.  There is now a dill pickle flavored vodka, and not only is it great for all of your double entendre needs, but it is made right up the road  from me in Reston, VA, and is SHOCKINGLY good.  As in, I can actually drink it straight.  (Hey, don't judge).  On top of that, it's exceptionally well priced at $14.95/750mL bottle compared to the Stoli Gold that is my go-to, and it seems that even those that are less than thrilled to try it (namely Jay, who I think only gave it a go based on the name of the brand) turn out to like it.  So, what are you waiting for?  Go grab yourself some of this most fantastic pickle flavored vodka, and make yourself a drink out of what is sure to the the next 'BIG DILL'!! (I really kill myself sometimes).

'The Dirty Pickle Martini'

2 oz Naked Jay Dill Pickle vodka

1/2 oz dry vermouth (I used my gold standard 'Noilly Pratt')

1/4 oz olive juice

Combine in a shaker with ice, shake vigorously.  Pour into glass and garnish with a dill pickle slice.

Can't find this vodka in your local store?  Check out the website by clicking here to find out where to buy, or let them know that your regular store is sorely lacking!

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Drink of the Moment: July 4th Edition

In the spirit of the weekend, I thought I would share a nice summery beverage that should be enjoyed properly outside on a patio with a slight breeze (or a patio ceiling fan, or a child hired to fan you with a palm frond, etc) while socializing with a group of friends, or maybe just enjoying your own company in a state of calm.    It combines one of summertime's signature fruits - watermelon; with one of summertime's signature vegetables- cucumbers; AND it's a lovely reddish pink color to uphold the patriotic aspect of the weekend.

While it does require a little bit of prep work to be made 'properly', I found that I was able to do a little cheat that got me to the end result without one bit of embarrassment when served.  If I were hosting an exceptionally elegant luncheon with proper linen towels and the company silver then maybe I would put in the extra effort, but until then, I'd totally recommend my little cheat.

Watermelon Refresher

Light, flavorful and summer-y.                                  2 oz. Square One Cucumber vodka 1 1/2 oz. watermelon juice* 1 oz. fresh lemon juice 1/4 oz. organic agave nectar (or to taste) 5 sprigs of mint Ice (Credit:  Allison Evanow)

Remove leaves from all but one sprig of mint, reserving that sprig for garnish. Place mint leaves and agave nectar in a cocktail shaker and muddle for 15 seconds. Add ice, vodka, watermelon juice and lemon juice and shake for 15 seconds. Strain the liquid into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a mint leaf. * Watermelon juice - Take one cup cut watermelon and place in blender. Blend on high until pureed. Using a fine mesh strainer, strain mixture into a glass or bowl. Discard remaining solids from strainer. Will yield enough juice for 4 cocktails.

So, that is the proper way to make the drink, watermelon juice included, though if you're like me you realized that the drink might not ever be made if you had to strain watermelon.  Because I thought this sounded so good, and I happened to have watermelon that I didn't care to blend and then strain, I just chose to muddle the watermelon with the mint and agave in a separate step.  I found that this little shortcut worked out lovely for my current needs.

Enjoy!

Drink of the Moment: Stoli Doli

Monument Avenue

One of the things I like most about living in Richmond VA is the Easter Parade that occurs every year on Monument Avenue.  A large stretch of the historic street is closed down, the median is filled with vendors and exhibits.  There are parties at all of the grand historic homes, and there is a parade of people going up and down both sides of the street in their Easter best.  It's all so traditionally southern with the massive houses, civil war monuments, and Sunday hats; and yet slightly hokey with the outrageously decorated dogs and Easter bonnet contests that it's absolutely amazing.  Everyone that lives nearby either has an Easter brunch party to attend, or is holding one themselves, and of course has a tasty spring beverage in hand.  My personal standby for the last decade has been 'The Stoli Doli'.

Before vodka came in the myriad of flavors that are readily available today, one was left to their own devices to mix things up a bit.  Even today with flavored vodkas on shelves everywhere, there is still something that makes it way more special and just seems a little better when done yourself.  In this case, not only are you getting your own 'personally crafted' vodka, but its super easy too.

Stoli Doli

1 750ml bottle Stolichnaya vodka         

1 whole Dole pineapple

Fruit punch or fruit juice (optional)

Cut and core your pineapple (into cubes if you're so inclined), and place it in a large jar or covered pitcher.  Pour the entire bottle of vodka over the pineapple, seal, and let it sit for at least 24 hours and up to 4 days.  Serve up with a splash of pineapple juice, or mix with fruit punch or your favorite fruit juice.

I usually cube my pineapple (to make it easy to use as garnish later) and mix with a fruit punch just because I like a pink drink on Easter, but this is absolutely amazing just by itself.  Keep in mind that the longer that pineapple soaks, the more infused the vodka will become so you can really make it to taste.  Just be careful with your consumption, as they do pack a bit of a punch.  We wouldn't want any kids to find you in the bushes instead of the the easter eggs they're looking for!

HAPPY EASTER!!!

Drink of the Moment: Dirty Vodka Martini, My Dirty Little Secret

What day isn't a dirty martini kind of day?  Well in my opinion, not many, but I knew today had far surpassed the beer threshold by 9am, and I was going to need my comfort cocktail (or more) before all was said and done.  The winter-like temps over the weekend make this even more appealing to curl up with like a warm blanket.  Not sure exactly why I enjoy this drink so much - I'd say it's my signature cocktail, maybe it's because of it's nice savory flavor (like an olive tapas plate or something), or maybe it's quick to make the worries melt away.  Who knows, but whatever magic it is that makes this my happy drink, I'm about to share my 'dirty little secret' with you now.

My (Favorite)Dirty Martini
(courtesy of John Barrar)


2 oz Stolichnaya Gold vodka
1 oz olive brine (preferably from a jar of olives)
1/2 oz Noilly Pratt dry vermouth
Whole olives (I prefer the extra large ones, or even stuffed ones sometimes for an added depth of flavor)

Shake extremely vigorously for about 30 seconds with ice, and pour into your favorite martini glass.  Garnish with olives, and let the day melt away.

Pretty low maintenance, huh?  I've had martinis in all sorts of places, made all sorts of ways (believe it or not, there is a lot that can go wrong with just 3 ingredients), and after actual taste tests between them, this one is the champ.  So what makes this one so different from the others?  Because there are so few flavors, it really boils down to the quality and specifics of those that are actually there.  There are 3 things to note in this recipe.  1) I am very specific about the types of ingredients that go into this cocktail - I know everyone has their favorite brands, but these are the ones that I've found combine together for my most optimal beverage experience.  I have even had die-hard fans of other vodkas (quite nice ones too) cave to the smoothness that you get with the Stoli Gold in this particular drink.  It really does make that much difference.  2) I use vermouth - I know you can make a pretty bang on dirty martini without the vermouth, and for years that was my preference as I had only tried using extra dry vermouth and found it to be horrible.  There is something about the dry vermouth that works amazingly well though, and actually compliments the cocktail instead of killing it.  I still drink martinis without it no problem; this is just my favorite way to drink them.  3) Shaking the drink hard enough is very important - no one likes a warm drink unless it's supposed to be warm.  Since this drink is served up, it's best when shaken hard enough so you get the little ice chips floating in the top of the glass. That keeps it much colder and crisper while you sip and proceed to get warmer and fuzzier. 

So, that's more than enough writing for now.  I've got places to go, people to see, and cocktails to consume!

Cheers!

Drink of the Moment: Gimme a Gimlet

If the recent warm weather, and tomorrow being the first day of spring hasn't lifted your spirits then I have the remedy you're looking for - the Vodka Basil Gimlet.  Even if you have been over the moon because of the weather and the arrival of spring, then adding this to the mix will only enhance the experience.

Vodka Basil Gimlet


3 oz Square One Botanical vodka

1 1/2 oz lime juice 
1/4 oz simple syrup or agave (or to taste)
3-5 stalks of basil


Muddle basil, simple syrup/agave and lime juice in shaker.  Add vodka and ice and shake vigorously.  Pour  into highball glass over ice.  Garnish with lime slice or basil sprig. Enjoy (on a porch or patio if available)!


This drink was such a hit with everyone (even those who normally prefer a beer to a cocktail).  The fragrance alone had everyone pausing for a second to take in the basil aroma before having their first yummy sip.  Be prepared though if you plan on making these with others around, as I found myself having to batch my mixing.  On that note, if you're entertaining, I would probably advise on just going ahead and making a pitcher - that way everyone can help themselves and you can take the time to enjoy as well.

Cheers!

Drink(s) of the Moment: Square One Cucumber Vodka

Happy Weekend!  After the workday I had yesterday, I really couldn't wait for the weekend to start; sooo, I didn't.  Immediately after work, I dove right in and mixed a concoction (or two) using my new favorite 'vodka of the moment' - Square One Cucumber.  Now, I expected this vodka to be nice, but I never knew how inspiring it is.  There are SO many different and unique cocktails you can mix up with it, and it seems like all of them that I've tried to date are just so wonderfully refreshing, surprisingly tasty, and extremely drinkable.  I am also finding that they are an exciting change to the oh-so-common beverage rut we all find ourselves in every now and again.  Below, I've selected two of my favorites to share with you, though don't be surprised if you see more of these cucumber vodka based drinks in future 'Drink of the Moment' features.

My original focus was on the 'Celery Cup #1', which is a great little savory cocktail that mingles the cucumber with celery, lemon, and cilantro; but then I tried the 'H', which I'm sure must stand for 'Holy Crap this is a Fantastic Drink' instead of just the inventor's initial.  Both are quite lovely, and almost taste like a little sneak preview of spring, so they really go with the warmer snap we've gotten here recently.  I think I have found a new longstanding go-to drink in the 'H' too, which is no small feat.  If you give either of them a try, I promise your taste buds will love you.  Oh, and though it may be tempting, do NOT leave out the black pepper garnish in the 'H', it's amazing.

Celery Cup #1

Inspired by Pimm's Cup and Featured at the Slow Food Nation  2008 event in San Francisco. 1 1/2 oz. Square One Cucumber 1-inch fresh English cucumber 2-inch celery stalk (closer to the heart for sweetness) palm-full of cilantro 1 oz. fresh lemon juice 1/2 oz. Pimm's 3/4 oz. organic agave nectar or simple syrup 1 celery stalk for garnish (Credit:  H. Joseph Ehrmann)

In a mixing glass, muddle the cucumber, celery cilantro and lemon juice into a pulp.  Add remaining ingredients, cover in ice and shake hard for 10 seconds.  Strain into a tall glass over fresh ice and garnish with a piece of celery.

"H"

Simply named and nicely done.  This is a cocktail served at Quality Social in San Diego that is named after Square One mixologist H. Joseph Ehrmann. 1 1/2 oz. Square One Cucumber 3/4 oz. St. Germain Elderflower liqueur 3/4 oz. lime juice 1/4 oz. simple syrup Soda Water Cucumber sliced lengthwise and a sprinkle of pepper for garnish. (Credit:  Timothy Lacey)

Lay Collins glass on its side, slide cucumber slice along side of glass and then add ice to keep cucumber in place.  Pour all ingredients, except soda, into a mixing glass and shake well.  Strain into Collins glass filled with ice and cucumber slice.   Top with soda water and sprinkle of black pepper. Cheers!

Drink(s) of the Moment

Ask anyone that knows me, in a certain setting, what I'm having to drink, and without hesitation they will tell you that it's either an extra dirty Stoli martini served up, or a pint of Guinness (if I'm feeling like something a little more subtle).  Recently though, I've been getting an itch to find some new and more interesting alternatives to mix things up a bit, which brings me to what I'll call my 'Drink(s) of the Moment.'

I suppose if this were a few years ago, I could do something exciting like a 'You Buy It, I'll Try It' thing, where I would probably end up with some seriously interesting bar stories that I wouldn't even be able to relay in full due to brief blackouts from what I'm sure some of those drinks might contain.  Since this is not a few years ago though, and I do truly enjoy having Jay in my life, I've been doing a little experimenting for myself with our own personal 'bar'.  While this may seem a little less exciting than a story about some random night out ending with me asleep on the floor somewhere; it should actually be more exciting for you because I remember everything I need to relay here (at least for the most part), AND I can share the recipes!

Here are my current 'drinks of the moment' worth sharing:

The Rumchata Black Russian

You may remember that Rumchata was one of my Favorite Five this month, and if you typically like a White Russian, then you'll love the twist the Rumchata gives this 'Black' Russian.  It will knock your socks off in more ways than one.

Ingredients (Serves: 1)

1 part Rumchata

1 part Kahlua

1 part Vodka (I used Stoli Gold)

Mix

Shake and pour into a rocks glass over ice.

Have a sip, and smile.  :)

The Tomato-Politan Martini

A yummy savory martini that I think would be fabulous at brunch, or you could throw caution to the wind and bring a whole new meaning to the term ' ladies who lunch.'  The pickle juice surprisingly gave a wonderful dimension to the drink. 

Ingredients 

(Serves: 2)

8 ounces of your favorite vodka (again, I used Stoli Gold) 

4 Tablespoons of tomato juice 

1 teaspoon of green hot sauce (like Tabasco Jalapeno)

Juice of one medium lemon

2 Tablespoons of pickle juice

Pickles for garnish.

Mix

Pour the vodka into a shaker 1/2 full of ice.

Add the hot sauce and shake for a bit.

Let the shaker rest for a moment, and then add the tomato and lemon juices.

Give it another few shakes and then strain into a well chilled glass

Top each drink with 1 Tablespoon of pickle juice, garnish with a slice of pickle, and enjoy!

Let me know what you think, and if you have any new ideas you'd like to have 'tested', by all means send them in!