SEASONAL DRINKS: aUtUMN
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rom the mountains to the prairies, America is a country of ongoing discussion, democracy and development. Our society plows ahead in the large industrious land upon which we build “The American Dream.” We pursue opportunity and freedom and most importantly celebrate all things that make us who we are. Every four years, the leaves turn crisp and brown to usher in fall, we the people participate in a most fascinating event— The Election. As it rounds the corner this year, take a moment to join the debate. Honor those who have molded our country, give a nod to the political system, and engage your patrons in the conversation. Staying fresh and current is a challenge all bars face over time. Remaining true to your theme is most important, but utilizing event-driven promotions and rejuvenating your coxcktail menu will keep your patrons engaged. Tis the season for politicking. Capitalize on the events at the Capitol. Just as Grey Goose created their Muddled
Rebuttal for the 2008 election, Maker’s Mark is getting into the fray releasing politically inspired ads featuring power couple James Carville and Mary Matalin. Follow in the footsteps of D.C. venues like The Lincoln, Round Robin, Art and Soul, Ritz Carlton, and Blue Pig Tavern this season and make over your menu to celebrate America. Choose a spin that suites your establishment, but whatever you do, Rock the Vote!
Tell The Tale
“Stories grab people,” but not just true stories, lore as well, imparts Jim Hewes of the legendary Round Robin Scotch Bar at the Willard Hotel. Regale your clientele with adages of presidents of yester-year. Honor those who have inspired the enterprise in which we reside. Stories abound. Whether funny, ironic, compelling, or moving, this season, tell the tale. Turn your drink list into a Mini-Wiki. Or like the Round Robin Scotch Bar, go grandiose with a Bible of Beverages in honor of all forty-three American Presidents.
As President, on October 3, 1789, George Washington made a proclamation and created the first Thanksgiving Day designated by the national government of the United States of America:
Wild Turkey Thanksgiving Infusion: In a wide-mouthed glass infusion jar, place 1 liter of Wild Turkey 101 and 2 barspoons of cardamom seeds. Close and leave in a dark cool place for 24 hours. Strain out cardamom and add 1.5 cups dried unsweetened cranberries and 3 sticks of cinnamon. Close and leave for another two days, agitating once per day. Strain solids and store in the original Wild Turkey bottle with proper labeling (commercially, store in an unlabeled bottle).
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Photo by Darren Edwards.
ElEction sEason comEs around EvEry four yEars, so takE advantagE this fall and crEatE somE caucus cocktails to kEEp customErs thinking political and drinking wEll.
The Kentucky Pilgrim 1 ½ oz Wild Turkey Thanksgiving Infusion 1 oz lemon juice ½ oz Maraschino liqueur ½ oz demerara syrup In a mixing glass, add all ingredients, fill with ice. Shake well for 10 seconds. Hawthorne strain into a wine glass and garnish with a long lemon twist. (Recipe courtesy of H. Joseph Ehrmann)
George Washington Everyone knows George Washington was the first president of the union, however most are not aware that President Washington was owner of the largest whiskey distillery in early America. His Mt. Vernon distillery produced more than 11,000 gallons of whiskey in 1799—some 17 times the average Virginia distillery’s output. October 2012 Bar Business Magazine
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