My favorite grandchild, you know the one, once told his Kindergarten teacher that he wanted to grow up and be like his grandma: drink Martinis and have fun at parties. Things have not changed. I’m still working on setting a good example, I still enjoy a good beverage and I still love social events. It goes along with my theory about laughter. The more you laugh the longer you live.
These are 3 of my favorite beverages. I’ve been making Bourbon Slushies for 30 years. What a fun summertime drink. They taste of good times. Since I freeze them in sandwich size baggies, they become the perfect tote-along beverage. Plus, they keep your food cold on the way to a picnic. Winner!
The Boulevardier is my new favorite cocktail. It’s very herbal with just a hint of bitterness from the Campari. This is not a ‘gulper’; you are going to want to savor this. Take your time and imagine you are sitting at a sidewalk cafe. It’s very big girl or boy.
Finally, the Espresso Martini. There are many stories behind how I got this recipe, none of which I’m sharing today. Suffice it to say, I had a wonderful evening and added years to my life. Happy 40th Birthday again Julie.
Bourbon Slushies
2 cups very strong tea
1 cup sugar
Stir to dissolve.
Add: 2 cups bourbon
1 12 ounce can thawed lemonade (I like pink best)
6 ounces thawed orange juice
6 cup water
Combine all and freeze.
Stir to soften and serve.
*** My dad called these bourbon sloppies, because that’s how you would act after a few. Even if someone says they do not like bourbon, they like these. They are great to have on hand in the freezer. I store them in small ziplock bags. Serve with a spoon.
Boulevardier
1 ounces Rye or Bourbon
1 ounce Campari
1 ounce sweet vermouth
Mix in an old-fashioned glass filled with ice and an orange twist.
*** This is my new non-Martini beverage of choice. It’s the American sibling of an Italian Negroni. I love the bitter undertones. If that’s a little too strong for you, mix it 50/50 with lemonade or sparkling water. I keep a container mixed up at all times. If you want to try the Negroni, simply replace the Rye with Gin.
Espresso Martini
1 ½ ounces vanilla vodka
1 ounce white cream d cocoa
1 ½ ounces Kahlua
1 ounce cold espresso shot
Shake with ice and strain into a martini glass.
*** I received this recipe from the bartender at the hotel Julie, et al, stayed at after her fabulously delicious 40th birthday dinner. What a fun evening.
and remember: She was one cocktail away from proving his mother right. Big kiss, Lynn
From the Recipe Box 