Okay, say you have this "friend." And that "friend" is just insistent about not trying any drinks made with a particular spirit. They’re bound to say “I just don’t like drinks with gin” or whiskey, etc. Perhaps they had one bad experience when they were 17—when they shouldn’t have been drinking—and have never dared to revisit that particular spirit since. Well, I’m here to help.
The following four drinks are perfect for a first time with a particular spirit. These can all be made at home; but at least the first three are also easy to order in any reputable bar. The fourth may need explaining, but most bartenders are open to learning new cocktail recipes (just don’t try it during rush hour).
Gin: The Alexander
Of course, many folks’ first impulse would be a Martini, thanks to name recognition. But for those who are gin-shy, the Alexander (which is the emperor of dessert-y drinks) is ideal. I’ve served this at home and in classes to a host of folks who’ve said “I don’t like gin drinks” before trying it, and then watched them to go on to become huge converts. The gin-and-chocolate combo is unexpectedly delicious, especially if you use a more traditional, juniper-forward gin such as Pacific Distillery’s Voyager Gin. This recipe’s from Good Spirits: Fill a cocktail shaker halfway full with ice cubes. Add 1 ounce gin, 1 ounce crème de cacao, and 1 ounce cream. Shake well. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a strawberry slice.
Read the full story on Seattle Mag.
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