Winding one’s way along the progressive course of these lovely boxes is like traveling down a “Blind River”. Let’s enjoy a mellow drink as we meander. It comes from bartender Jesse Carr of Justine in New Orleans. The namesake river can be located in southeastern Louisiana where it originates in St James Parish west of New Orleans and wends its way east into to Lake Maurepas. Carr, who is well known to the Louisiana bar scene, defines a good bartender as “someone who cares about people”. I’ll drink to that.

His Blind River is a gin based cocktail but splits that base with Genever, the original Dutch gin which has deeper malt flavors. Benedictine is a classic French herbal liqueur made from 27 different flowers, botanicals and spices that brings flavors of clove, citrus, honey and cinnamon to the mix. Carr wanted to highlight the  “melon, citrus and floral notes” of blanc vermouth with the other ingredients in his drink. The cocktail is reminiscent of the Poet’s Dream, which I have also featured in the past. Both are lovely drinks that might sweep you away on a reverie, floating blissful down the river. Cheers!

Blind River by Jesse Carr

¾ oz gin

¾ oz Genever

¾ oz blanc vermouth

½ oz Benedictine

3 dashes orange bitters

Stir ingredients with ice and strain into a favorite glass. Dehydrated orange wheel or twist recommended.

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