By: Jeb Fiorita and Peter Olson
The fall brings a time of cooler weather, roaring fires in the backyard or fire place and football. This is a great time to enjoy so many different types of fun and interesting cocktails, both old and new. What I enjoy about cocktails is that they are timeless. You will find us going back in time a little and reintroducing a few classic cocktails. If spirits are not your drink of choice, I also have some fun craft beers that are enjoyed while watching your favorite college or NFL team. Personally, cheering for the Green Bay Packers while enjoying some wings and a cool beverage is a great way to enjoy a Sunday. Jeb may have strong feelings on watching the Washington Redskins but we can’t help that.
When I started tending bar at The Swan Club, a supper club located just outside of Green Bay, Wisconsin on the water, Old Fashions and Manhattans were the drink of choice before a hearty meal of prime rib or deep fried Cod. So, I thought I would give you a couple of timeless recipes for an old fashion, one with a fall twist, as well as a Manhattan.
Jameson Pumpkin Old Fashion
4 oz. Jameson Whiskey
1 oz. Pumpkin Syrup
1 Tsp. Granulated Sugar
1 Tsp. Sparkling Water
2 dashes of Bitters
1 Sage Leaf for Garnish
Add all ingredients together and shake. Drain over rocks.
Whiskey Old Fashion
4 oz. of Jack Daniels Whiskey
3 Dashes of Angostura Bitters
1 Tsp Granulated Sugar
1 Tsp Sparkling Water
1 Slice of Orange for Garnish
Add all ingredients together and shake. Drain over rocks.
Bourbon Manhattan
4 oz. Knob Creek Bourbon
1 oz. Sweet Vermouth
2 Dashes Bitters
1 Cherry for Garnish
Add all ingredients together and shake. Drain over rocks.
Now, if an Old Fashion or Manhattan reminds you of your parents or grandparents, I thought I would add a few more cocktails. One, pays homage to one of my favorite movies of all time…The Big Lebowski. You guessed it, the classic White Russian.
White Russian
3 oz. KetelOne Vodka
1 oz. Kahlua Coffee Liquor
2 oz. Heavy Cream
Add all ingredients together and shake. Drain over rocks.
A drink that has quickly become a favorite of mine is the Moscow Mule. Now, I have tried several variations, including the Mexican Mule. But I have to say, that my favorite is one that is perfect for fall.
Apple Ginger Mule
4 oz. Hendricks Gin
2 oz. Apple Cider
I can of Ginger Beer
2 Green Apple Slices for Garnish
Add all ingredients together and shake. Drain over rocks.
Now, for those that really enjoy a beer…we have it. Fall is the perfect time for a crisp and refreshing craft beer or lager. When October hits, I reach for my unofficial “welcome to fall” beer…Sam Adams Octoberfest. Other than my daughter’s birthday in October, making it my favorite month, seeing Sam Adams on the shelf lets me know my favorite time of year is upon us. Other beers that we carry include some basics…Amstel Light, Becks, Corona, Guiness, etc. But where I think it gets exciting is the offering of craft beers.
One of our favorites that’s local to Connecticut is Half Full Brewery (www.halffullbrewery.com). Based in Stamford, Half Full offers a full line of delicious brews. We at Val’s enjoy Bright Blond Ale. This has a light body, low bitterness with a crisp citrusy grapefruit finish. But don’t stop there. Half Full offers over a dozen beer options.
Lawson’s (www.Lawsonsfinest.com) Sip of Sunshine is another craft beer, brewed locally in Connecticut. This beer is packed with juicy tropical fruit flavors and a hint of bright floral aromas. There are an additional two dozen beers that are going to temp your palette.
Another Connecticut based brewery is New England Brewery (www.newenglandbreweing.com). I have had my share of the German Pilsner, the Summer Ale and the Berliner. That is only the tip of what New England Brewery has to offer. You will find that each brew is distinctive in flavor and aroma.
The last beer we are going to focus on is a across state lines in Brooklyn, NY. Other Half Brewery (www.otherhalfbrewing.com) started back in 2014 and has locations in Washington D.C., Brooklyn, Finger Lakes, Other Half has literally dozens of flavors, to many to stock in one store. With a great selection of IPA’s, Pilsners and Stouts…we are sure you will find something to your liking.
You will notice that I included the website addresses for each of the local breweries. I found researching these beers almost as enjoyable as drinking them…almost. Each website contains a description including taste, aroma and flavor that we may experience. This will give you an idea of what you might want to try.
We at Val’s appreciate your business and loyalty. And hope you remain healthy and in good spirits. Please stop by and we would be happy to assist you in your Fall beverage needs. As always, we are offering free delivery and curb side pick up.
See you soon,
The Val’s Family
