Every now and again, it’s worthwhile to set aside your favorite brewski to play the suave bartender and mix up a creative concoction. Something perhaps a tad more sophisticated. Here are three drinks to serve the next time you play host. Rest assured, your guests will be glad you dusted off that seldom-used barware.
Michelada
A no-nonsense beer drinker may be especially tempted by this version of a spicy, satisfying Mexican cocktail. With more sophisticated beer cocktails making the rounds at trendy East Coast bars and restaurants, this twist on an old favorite will prime you for the more complex “beertails” you may see showing up on drink menus.
Ingredients:
Salt, for rimming the glasses1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juiceIce1 1/2 cups light Mexican beer, such as Corona2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce2 teaspoons hot sauce, such as Tabasco1 teaspoon Maggi sauce or soy sauceFreshly ground black pepper, for garnish
Instructions:
Coat the rims of two glasses with lime and dip in salt, setting aside with some ice. Mix the lime juice, beer, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce and Maggi or soy sauce and pour into prepared glasses. Top with a few grinds of black pepper and enjoy.
Smoky, Hot, Scotch Apple Cider
Ah, the dead of February—and buddy, it’s cold outside! It’s time to make a drink that will warm you up fast. This Scotch whisky-based spiked cider will be a slam-dunk at your next shindig or relaxed night at home. (And don’t forget to pack this in the Thermos on your next camping excursion for a fireside nightcap.)
Ingredients:
1/2 cup apple cider1 teaspoon honey1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick1 (1-by-2-inch) lemon peel2 tablespoons single-malt, not-heavily-peated Scotch whisky, such as Glenlivet1/4 teaspoon heavily peated Scotch whisky, such as Laphroaig1 1/2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
Heat the apple cider, honey, cinnamon stick and lemon peel over medium heat and stir until the honey has melted. Remove from heat and add both Scotches and the lemon juice, stirring to combine. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, garnish with the cinnamon stick and lemon peel.
Fancy Sour
You’ve probably tried the punchy sweet-and-sour combo of a Whiskey Sour, but adding a splash of orange liqueur takes this drink from average to amazing. This tasty cocktail is simple to make and has inspired dozens of variations, so don’t be afraid to add to your own twist to this old-timey fave!
Ingredients:
1.5 oz Spirit0.75 oz Lemon Juice0.50 oz Simple SyrupSplash of Orange Liqueur
Instructions:
Shake all ingredients together and strain. Serve over ice.
