Friday Happy Hour: Rob Roy

We once heard someone describe scotch as "a grumpy old bachelor, seldom to be found in a marrying mood." They were describing the fact that there aren't many cocktails made with scotch, not necessarily describing the kind of people who enjoy scotch (although it kind of speaks for itself). One of the most popular of the cocktails made with scotch is the Rob Roy:


Pretty easy to make -- they simply call for a 2:1 ratio of scotch and sweet vermouth. Here's a similar recipe, yet with a little different take:

The "Scotch Manhattan" indeed. For those of you out there who may not like scotch, this drink may be an opportunity to ease into it and end up liking it! Regardless, this drink is perfect for these winter nights that don't seem to be leaving any time soon.

Cheers!

Friday Happy Hour: we'll have a boilermaker

Hey, tough guy!

These really are the dog days of summer, aren't they? How about cooling down with a cold, frosty one? Have a shot, while you're at it.

If you don't have a cherished memory involving a boilermaker, or too many boilermakers, we feel sorry for you. This very manly drink is a beer with a shot of whiskey. Here, we have a beer with a shot of bourbon -- but, substitute Scotch, Irish Whiskey, Canadian Whisky, whatever your pleasure is. The recipe is as foolproof as it is fail safe.

It's too hot to get too fussy. Cheers!

Friday Happy Hour: for the advanced bartender

If you're like us, you read about the latest drinks that they're hyping at the trendy clubs and your head spins. How could the hobbyist bartender possibly keep up with it?

Well, like they say, practice makes perfect.

And, sometimes you have to start at the very beginning. Here's a drink to start with, and once you have mastered this, you can move on to more advanced drinks:

Okay, so ice and scotch. Got it!

Here's something a little different:


Actually, this one is a little easier to follow. The twist is optional!

But, what happens if your guests don't like scotch or gin? Try this:

Did you get that? Here's another variation on this theme:

You're probably getting the hang of it by now.

Here's a secret: you can make a drink like this out of any kind of liquor.

Now you're ready to graduate to the next step: follow these recipes with whatever liquor you prefer. Then add soda or tonic or water -- voila! Suddenly you have some drinks that everyone enjoys: gin and tonic, vodka tonic, scotch and soda, bourbon and branch. Or, add cola to get rum and coke!

Now you're pouring 'em! Go knock them dead!

Cheers!