Today is World Cocktail Day. The annual holiday celebrates the first reference to the word “cocktail” in 1806. (There’s a whole About.com article about it, if you want to read more.) What better excuse to toast with friends?
I don’t normally need a special day to celebrate cocktails (I do it daily in my role as Master Mixologist for Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants). Still, it’s nice to know we’re devoting time to enjoy life’s ice-cold pleasures. After all, they’ve come a long way over the last decade; more and more bars are concentrating on the craft of the cocktail and resurrecting classics.
In my own travels, I see first-hand the highly trained bar staffs, quality spirits, and use of fresh juices and ingredients. I know we’re all working hard at Kimpton to mix fresh, well-made cocktails and give guests a unique drinking experience.
So on this mother of all mixology days, get out and support your local bar that takes time to make you a proper cocktail (thank the bartender, while you’re at it). I’ll be enjoying the godfather of all drinks: a crisp, cold gin martini, made with a little more dry vermouth than usual and a dash of orange bitters. My favorite recipe is below.
Cheers!
~ Jacques Bezuidenhout, Lead Bartender
Gin Martini
2 1/2 oz. Plymouth gin
1/2 oz. dry vermouth (Noilly Pratt or Dolin)
2 dashes angostura orange bitters
In a mixing glass, stir ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon twist or olive.
Thirsty yet? You can relish an ice-cold gin martini at any of Kimpton’s restaurants, bars, or lounges. For locations, visit us here.
