Archive for December 2021

Wise Man #4

Wise Man #4

Stir with ice and strain into old fashioned glass over ice. Garnish with a rosemary sprig.

I had recently visited Hartford Flavor Company, which is about an hour from my home, and had picked up a number of their liqueurs. I really wanted to try their cranberry and sage liqueurs together, and apple brandy seemed the most appropriate base. Despite the sweetness, I still felt a little more was needed so added some 1:1 honey syrup (I’ve also substituted agave nectar in a pinch), and then a bit of balsamic to brighten it up. Very holidays.

The name was suggested by Taylor Hilliard in a cocktail evening I held. If this was the fourth straggler on Christmas night long ago, I wouldn’t mind passing some time with him.

Christmas in Manhattan

Christmas in Manhattan

Stir with ice and strain into glass. Garnish with a cherry.

Here’s a winter spin on a Manhattan, with pear, vanilla and cherry subbing for the vermouth. Beyond that there’s not much more to it, but what a lot that is!

The name is exactly what it is. Direct and to the point. No nonsense in the Big Apple.