Social Distancing

“One sees qualities at a distance and defects at close range.” - Victor Hugo

To toast this feisty fellow I created a cocktail that is perfectly apropos for the period and one that our malodorous mate would appreciate. Drinking cocktails and spirits in general is traditionally a social affair. Indeed there is a stigma to drinking alone. But that is just what we must do now, while we raise our collective glasses in tribute to one another from our isolation. This potion should encourage everyone to enjoy drinking alone. It lends itself to that pursuit. Indeed, no one will want to be around you after you imbibe even one of these, and you’ll probably want two, because they are so tasty.

Good for everyone but vampires

"It is easy to be brave from a safe distance.” - Aesop

“Savory” cocktails are nothing new, mind you. Some prefer them greatly over the sweeter variety. Tasty tipples you will possibly have tried include the “Dirty” Martini, with its dose of satisfying olive juice, or the Bloody Mary, full of robust tomato juice and an umami hit of Worchester. Here I present a rum based drink, a daiquiri for the day, which features an incredibly delicious “gastrique” of roasted garlic. Gastriques are technically made by deglazing the savory bits from a pan with vinegar, but can refer to a shrub-like syrup which goes lighter on the vinegar than a typical shrub. It’s incredibly easy to make and you can cook with it too after you finish making the drink. I’ve split the white rum with some deep, rich Blackstrap as well, to add more bold flavors that hold up against the garlic. The cocktail is sensational, and you’ll have no fear of the neighbors wanting to drop in for a sip. Here’s to keeping our distance, together. Cheers!

This pair is keeping their distance

Social Distancing

1 ½ oz white rum

½ oz Blackstrap rum

¾ oz lime

¾ oz roasted garlic gastrique*

*Roasted garlic gastrique: puree 4 cloves roasted garlic, ½ cup Demerera syrup (1:1 sugar : water) and 1 tsp Balsamic vinegar, strain out any remaining solids

Shake together with ice and strain into a favorite glass. Lime wedge garnish (w/ facemask)